Optical Alignment Engineer, Steward Observatory (Multiple Positions)
About The Position
The Center for Astronomical Adaptive Optics (CAAO) at Steward Observatory develops and operates adaptive optics systems for ground-based telescopes, including the LBTI, MMT, and GMT, and space-based projects including the Lazuli Space Observatory. The Optical Alignment Engineer (R&D Optical Engineer III) contributes to building, aligning, testing, and integrating flight and ground-based instruments. The role requires knowledge of optical design, adaptive optics concepts, high-precision alignment, cleanroom protocols, and cryogenic and vacuum instruments. The engineer directs and participates in the alignment, integration, and testing of precision instruments in a cleanroom, using optical measurement equipment and methods. The position develops optical designs in ZEMAX and other optical software, works with mechanical engineers to implement opto-mechanical designs, and translates designs into practical procurement requirements. The role also works with vendors and University procurement staff on technical aspects of parts and optics orders. Work includes preparing technical reports and may lead to publications on instrument performance. Steward Observatory is a University of Arizona research unit with more than 180 professionals supporting facilities, laboratories, and observatories. The position is full-time, 40 hours per week, and eligible for full benefits. Two vacancies are listed.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Opto-Mechanical or Optical Engineering.
- At least 5 years of experience in optical alignment, testing, and design, or an equivalent combination of education and work experience.
- Thorough knowledge of optical design, basic adaptive optics concepts, high-precision alignment, cleanroom protocols, and cryogenic and vacuum instruments.
- Ability to communicate with vendors, technicians, engineers in other disciplines, department administration, and telescope project representatives.
- Ability to prepare formal and informal reports and slide presentations.
- Expertise in ZEMAX and Solidworks.
- Extensive knowledge of adaptive optics for ground- and space-based telescopes.
- Extensive optical design knowledge and ability to carry a design from beginning to end, including understanding its real-world implementation.
Responsibilities
- Direct and participate in alignment, integration, and testing of high-precision instruments in a cleanroom.
- Use optical measurement techniques and equipment to ensure instruments are built to specification.
- Develop optical designs using ZEMAX and other optical software to meet scientific specifications for astronomical observations.
- Prepare technical reports and contribute to publications on instrument performance.
- Work with mechanical engineers to test, modify, and implement optical designs using opto-mechanical engineering expertise.
- Translate optical designs into practical requirements for procurement of parts and optics while considering buildability, cost, and schedule.
- Work directly with vendors and liaise with University procurement on technical matters related to ordered parts.
- Communicate with vendors, technicians, engineers in other disciplines, department administration, and telescope project representatives; prepare reports and slide presentations.
Benefits
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision insurance
- Life insurance
- Disability programs
- Paid vacation
- Paid sick leave
- Paid holidays
- Tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members at the University of Arizona, Arizona State University, or Northern Arizona University
- Retirement plans
- Access to University of Arizona recreation and cultural activities
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
