Positions in this class organize, coordinate and conduct the most advanced, extensive and technically complex research which encompasses multiple technical specialties and which cross program lines within the Council's overall research program. The positions also serve as Departmental experts in one or more research program areas to provide high-level technical advice and assistance. The positions require the most advanced technical expertise. This class is distinguished from the Transportation Research Manager by the latter's administrative, budgetary and managerial responsibility for an assigned technical research program area and the conduct of comprehensive research projects. Performs work of unusual difficulty in conducting complex transportation research which encompasses multiple scientific disciplines and specialty areas such as chemistry, physics, structural engineering or is inclusive of multiple subject specialty areas within a program.
Research projects are long-term, ongoing and are the highest level and complexity.
Projects may be part of a cooperative effort of national transportation organizations. Authors research reports and publications to present research results to transportation and academic committees. Serves as an expert to provide consultation to the total transportation community statewide and nationwide. Serves as liaison with research professionals from federal agencies and national professional research organizations and committees. Supervision is typically not a factor.