Lead Mechanical Engineer, Astronomical Instrumentation

University of Sydney

Sydney

On-site

AUD 113,000 - 123,000

Full time

4 days ago

Be an early applicant

Application generator

Stand out for this role — generate a tailored resume and cover letter in about a minute.

Get past ATS filters

Job summary

University of Sydney on Camperdown Campus is seeking a Senior Mechanical Specialist to lead a small engineering team in developing and delivering complex astronomical instrumentation for Astralis-USyd.

You will perform advanced analyses (structural, thermal, kinematic), craft detailed mechanical designs, and produce verification plans for instrument projects across a multidisciplinary collaboration. This role offers significant scope for MAIT and commission-ready instrumentation.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree or diploma in mechanical engineering or related discipline.
Demonstrated skills in CAD design and mechanical drawing production.
Proven capability in structural, thermal and kinematic analysis for precision mechanical engineering.
Proven track record in opto-mechanics or mechatronics for scientific or technical instrumentation.
Knowledge of and/or training in systems engineering practices for technical projects.
Experience collaborating and working as part of a multi-discipline team, directing junior staff and engaging with external partners.
Experience in delivery of astronomical instrumentation for large telescopes from design to MAIT and commissioning will be highly regarded.

Responsibilities

Develop concepts, system and sub-system level mechanical designs and parts drawings for instrument projects.
Perform structural, kinematic, vibration, and thermal analyses through FEA and other analytical techniques.
Develop alignment, assembly, and test plans for verification and acceptance of mechanical and opto-mechanical sub-systems.
Develop technical specifications for procurements and source parts.
Develop, assemble, test and characterize mechanical parts and components of instruments.
Produce documentation for reviews, subsystem analysis and tests, and for instrument operation and maintenance manuals.
Take ownership of requirements management, interface control, verification and validation, and product assurance oversight—from final design through deployment and commissioning, working with scientists and external partners.