Optomechanical Engineering Associate, Observing Support

University of Texas at Austin • TX

73d • $58,000

About The Position

The Optomechanical Engineering Associate provides hands-on mechanical and technical support for all McDonald Observatory and tenant telescope facilities. This includes performing instrument changes, setting up instruments, cleaning optical surfaces, re-coating astronomical optics, and assisting with design and machining. This position is part of the Observing Support (OS) team and reports to the OS Manager.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Optical Engineering/Sciences, or a related field.
• A minimum of two years of experience in an optical lab or other precision research environment.
• Experience with precision equipment used in research programs.
• Familiarity with optical coating procedures.
• Ability to organize and prioritize work, to meet deadlines and expectations.
• Self-driven individual with keen technical ability, systematic and detail-oriented approach.
• Positive attitude, strong work ethic, and strong team player.
• Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills.
• Ability to communicate with a variety of audiences, including science users, engineers, educators, nighttime staff, and administrative staff.
• Proficient computer skills such as Microsoft Office 365, specifically Excel.
• Experience with project management tracking software such as Jira.
• Desire and ability to learn new skills or methods.

Nice To Haves

• Welding and metal fabrication skills.
• Proven ability to design experiments, conduct tests, and gather and interpret data for troubleshooting optomechanical component or system failures.
• Understanding of system-level interactions between optics, electronics, software, and mechanical parts to enable effective problem-solving at the system level down to the individual part level.
• Demonstrated ability to design effective, robust mechanical and/or optical systems with a strong emphasis on clear and comprehensive technical documentation.
• Experience with CAD and coding.
• Familiarity with astronomical instrumentation.
• Familiarity with optical and/or near-IR detectors.
• Experience in one or more of the following areas: care of optics, optical alignments, stray light analysis and control, optical mountings, and optical coatings, including thin films.

Responsibilities

• Performs maintenance and repairs on McDonald Observatory's astronomical instruments, including the 107-inch Harlen J. Smith Telescope (HJST), the historic Otto Struve Telescope, and the 30- and 36-inch facilities.
• Assists with upgrades, modifications, as well as design and machining as directed.
• Performs maintenance and repairs on the tenant facilities that are supported by McDonald Observatory.
• Assists in general operations tasks, including instrument changes, optical cleaning, optical recoating, and telescope assembly.
• Provides technical support for observing, including reviewing night logs for problems, refilling cryogens, and changing filters.
• May lead operations support efforts and supervises the 107-inch machine shop.
• Assists in quality control checks and upgrades to the Operation & Maintenance (O&M) Manuals for the optical and mechanical systems in coordination with management.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.
• Drives a UT vehicle.

Benefits

• Competitive health benefits (Employee premiums covered at 100%; family premiums at 50%)
• Vision, dental, life, and disability insurance options
• Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays
• Teachers Retirement System of Texas (a defined benefit retirement plan)
• Additional voluntary retirement programs: tax sheltered annuity 403(b) and a deferred compensation program 457(b)
• Flexible spending account options for medical and childcare expenses

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree
• Number of Employees: 251-500 employees