Lead Mechanical Technician, Integration (Steward Observatory)

The University of Arizona•Tucson, AZ

8d•Onsite

About The Position

The University of Arizona's Steward Observatory invites you to apply to the role of Lead Mechanical Technician, Integration. The successful candidate will provide technical and tactical leadership to a team of mechanical technicians within the integration group. The team is responsible for fabricating, configuring, and assembling specialized large-mirror tooling, production equipment, and metrology systems. As a Lead Mechanical Technician, the incumbent oversees daily staff activities, enforces safety and quality protocols, and manages technical operations to meet project schedules and department outcomes. Steward Observatory is both a century-old observatory on the University of Arizona campus and one of the University’s oldest research units. Founded in 1918, the Observatory brings together students, staff, faculty, engineers, and technicians to explore the universe and share discoveries through world-class research, education, and outreach. With more than 180 professionals supporting advanced facilities, laboratories, and observatories, Steward Observatory offers a collaborative environment where technical expertise plays a critical role in advancing ground- and space-based astronomy.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and experience
A minimum of 3 years of related work experience
Ability to lead a small team of technicians
Ability to safely handle optics
Ability to use measurement tools used in tooling construction and mirror characterization
Ability to write and follow procedures
Ability to work at heights in both restraint and fall arrest
Ability to communicate with scientists and engineers
Ability to develop, assemble, and use large mirror tooling, including laps, handling equipment, and mirror cells, while maintaining a strong focus on safety
Computer skills including MS Word, Excel

Nice To Haves

Experience directing hourly staff for daily activities, training and work quality.

Responsibilities

Direct and oversee the team in manufacturing assemblies from engineering concepts and designs, including managing raw material purchasing and component fabrication.
Supervise the retrieval, modification, and reuse of existing assemblies from remote storage locations, coordinating necessary local travel.
Ensure quality standards are met during the production of critical assemblies, including laps, tooling, mirror cells, and their respective sub-assemblies.
Manage and coordinate the configuration of mirror production equipment, such as grinding and polishing machines, to support production goals.
Oversee the assembly, installation, and inspection of custom mirror mount interfaces, grinding/polishing tools, and required safety devices or structures.
Direct staff and oversee the complex assembly and disassembly of test tower assemblies and metrology systems.
Manage custom configurations of the 4-story test tower, ensuring team compliance with safety protocols, correct operation of cranes/lifts, and mandatory fall protection/harness training.
Provide facilities support by managing vendor selection, assisting with quotes, and overseeing the purchasing and maintenance of lab equipment in compliance with regulations.
Delegate facilities tasks appropriately or directly supervise personnel to maintain safe and efficient laboratory operations.
Plan day-to-day activities, assign work, and formally supervise the team of hourly mechanical technicians.
Responsible for training staff, establishing clear performance expectations, and evaluating outcomes against safety, quality, cost, and schedule metrics.