Description

Job Description:

The Leidos Surface Transportation Solutions Portfolio is seeking a Mid-level Research Psychologist / Human Factors Specialist to lead empirical studies of Human Factors issues in the safety and operation of the U.S. transportation system as part of the Human Factors Support Services program in McLean, VA. The Research Psychologist will work closely with a team of research scientists, transportation engineers, and support staff to conduct leading edge research in highway safety, and in the areas of safety and operations. An ideal candidate can lead and develop research design, planning, execution, report writing, and dissemination on empirical studies and their outcomes. Opportunities are available for publishing and presenting leading edge research results.

The Research Psychologist will work on a full-time basis within the Washington, DC metro area by August 2021. The position is located at the Federal Highway Administration Turner-Fairbank Highway Research Center in McLean, Virginia; however, in response to the current COVID-19 pandemic, work can temporarily be performed remotely through telecommuting arrangements. Facilities such as a research sign testing lab, connected intersection testbed, Virtual Reality laboratory, and static- and motion-base driving simulators at the Turner-Fairbank Highway Research Center are used to support research on a variety of topics including: transportation systems management and operations; automated driving systems; cooperative driving automation; intersection design; roadway design; signing; pedestrian and bicyclist safety; visibility; traffic control devices; weather; and work zones.

Specific duties include, but are not limited to:

• designing and conducting applied behavioral research studies and data collection procedures
• assuring quality control in data collection
• performing statistical analyses and interpreting results;
• managing and/or collaborating with other technical personnel in a multi-disciplined environment
• preparing research reports and summaries of research activities
• reviewing and evaluating complex research studies or programs
• performing thorough literature reviews and summarizing technical information
• communicating technical information to audiences with diverse backgrounds

Required Education & Experience:

• Ph.D. in experimental psychology, human factors, or an equivalent field
• Must have at least 3 years of demonstrated skill and experience in serving as a Principal Investigator and leading research studies
• The candidate must be able to obtain and maintain a Public Trust clearance

Desired Skills/Traits/Experience:

• Experience and expertise specific to highway safety and operations, driving automation technology, and Cooperative Driving Automation
• Experience working with Virtual Reality or Virtual Programming Environments
• Demonstrated experience in engaging a variety of industry, government, research, consulting, and other professionals to achieve a common goal
• Effective writer and engaging presenter who excels at making highly complex and technical information accessible to diverse audiences
• Experience working in an applied research/development/testing environment.
• Ability to perform well under the pressure of multiple competing deadlines.
• Highly proactive, self-motivated, and has sharp self-time management.
• Ability to think analytically and apply general concepts to other applicable topics.
• Ability to flourish within a dynamic, fun team environment as well as work independently.
• Seeks constant improvement through self-identified opportunities and peer feedback.

External Referral Bonus:

Eligible

External Referral Bonus $:

$2000

Potential for Telework:

No

Clearance Level Required:

None

Travel:

Yes, 10% of the time

Scheduled Weekly Hours:

40

Shift:

Day

Requisition Category:

Professional

Job Family:

Human Factors Design Engineering

Pay Range: