Undergraduate Student Assistant

  • Publication date November 4, 2025

Department: Computer Science & Engineering Technology
Location: Engineering & Aviation Sciences Building
Reports To: Dr. Lizhou Cao, Assistant Professor in Computer Science, Gaming, and Software Engineering

Job Summary: Two undergraduate student assistants will support a STEM-focused NSF project by helping
peers use virtual reality (VR) equipment, assisting with lab setup, collecting data, and providing general
support during instructional and research activities. Students will also have opportunities to participate in
entry-level research tasks under faculty guidance.

Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Support VR Learning Platform Development
    o Participate in the design and development of the VR learning framework.
    o Participate in the design and development of VR learning modules.
    o Assist in the development of additional support tools for the platform
  • Peer Support and VR Equipment Assistance
    o Help fellow students learn to operate and interact with VR equipment.
    o Ensure proper handling, setup, and storage of VR devices and accessories.
    o Troubleshoot basic technical issues and report equipment concerns.
  • Laboratory Preparation and Maintenance
    o Assist with routine setup and breakdown of laboratory sessions.
    o Maintain cleanliness and organization of lab spaces.
    o Monitor inventory of supplies and equipment.
  • Instructional and Research Support
    o Provide general assistance to faculty and graduate students during instructional and lab
    sessions.
    o Support data gathering activities, including surveys, observations, and basic data entry.
    o Participate in entry-level research tasks under faculty supervision.
  • Project Engagement
    o Attend team meetings and training sessions related to the project.
    o Contribute to outreach and demonstration events showcasing VR learning tools.
    o Maintain accurate records of participation and assigned tasks

Core Requirements:

  • Strong programming skills (Python, C/C++, or any high-level language)
  • Ability to learn new tools quickly and adapt to project needs
  • Good problem-solving skills and logical thinking
  • Teamwork and communication skill

Preferred/Nice to Have:

  • Familiarity with Unity, C#, or other game engines
  • Experience with 3D applications or graphics (e.g., Blender, Maya, Unreal)
  • Exposure to VR/AR development (Oculus, SDK, OpenXR, etc.)
  • Understanding of computer graphics concepts (rendering, shaders, 3D math)
  • Interest in educational technologies, games, or human-computer interaction

Hours: 10-20 hours week
Pay: $17.00/hour

To Apply (Applications will be accepted until the position is filled): You must complete and submit a Student
Employment Application to the Department of Human Resources by following the steps below:

  1. Visit www.umes.edu/hr
  2. Select Talent Acquisition
  3. Select Students
  4. Select Student Employment Website
  5. Select Student Workship Application
  6. Email the application to mvames@umes.edu
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