Worker Type Regular Job Description AV has an opportunity available for a Graduate Student Research Assistant to support research on adaptive materials and structures at the Materials & Manufacturing Directorate of the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) in Dayton, Ohio. The candidate should demonstrate a driven interest in STEM fields, especially through previous and planned course work. Experience with computational modeling, machine learning techniques, and design optimization is highly desired. Requirements This position involves working within a government facility and requires US citizenship. Must be working toward a MS or PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering, Computer Science Engineering, Physics, Mathematics, or a related discipline. Experience with computational modeling, machine learning techniques, and design optimization preferred. Hourly Rate Range $23-$25 Clearance Level No Clearance Benefits AV offers an excellent benefits package including medical, dental, vision, 401K with company matching, a 9/80 work schedule and a paid holiday shutdown. For more information about our company benefit offerings please visit We also encourage you to review our company website at to learn more about us. About AV AV isn’t for everyone. We hire the curious, the relentless, the mission-obsessed. The best of the best. We don’t just build defense technology—we redefine what’s possible. As the premier autonomous systems company in the U.S., AV delivers breakthrough capabilities across air, land, sea, space, and cyber. From AI-powered drones and loitering munitions to integrated autonomy and space resilience, our technologies shape the future of warfare and protect those who serve. Founded by legendary innovator Dr. Paul MacCready, AV has spent over 50 years pushing the boundaries of what unmanned systems can do. Our heritage includes seven platforms in the Smithsonian—but we’re not building history, we’re building what’s next. If you're ready to build technology that matters—with speed, scale, and purpose—there’s no better place to do it than AV. We are proud to be an EEO/AA Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/veterans. AeroVironment, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and welcomes all qualified applicants. Qualified applicants will receive fair and impartial consideration without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic data, sexual orientation, gender identity or other legally protected status. ITAR U.S. Citizenship required. Must be willing to work on government contracts and have the ability to obtain a security clearance. #J-18808-Ljbffr