Astronomy Instrumentation Mechanical Engineer

The University of Texas at Austin; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Retirement plan

Paid time off

Flexible spending account

Job summary

The University of Texas at Austin seeks a Mechanical Engineer for the McDonald Observatory to design, build, test, and support optomechanical and electromechanical subsystems. The role involves applying mechanical, optical, electronic, vacuum, cryogenic, and software engineering across a range of astronomy instruments.

You'll contribute to instrument development, travel occasionally to the observatory, prepare technical reports, and collaborate with project teams while advancing precision

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field with 6+ years of experience, or master's with 4+ years.
• Experience writing specifications to support technical work.
• Experience designing mechanical parts and assemblies.
• Experience using CAD to design assemblies.
• Experience with FEA to validate performance.
• Experience with 3D printing for prototypes.
• Experience sourcing and procuring parts and hardware.
• Experience assembling, testing, and troubleshooting mechanical systems.
• Experience writing detailed specs for outsourcing mechanical systems.

Responsibilities

• Designs and develops scientific instrumentation and mechanical equipment with wide latitude for independent action.
• Collaborates with project leadership to develop design concepts and requirements; builds prototypes and writes reports.
• Produces fabrication drawings and oversees fabrication of parts.
• Directs assembly, deployment, commissioning, and field support of instruments and equipment.
• Documents results and participates in design reviews and potential journal publications.
• Continuously develops engineering skills and explores new technologies for instrumentation.

Skills

Mechanical design

CAD

FEA

Prototyping

Instrumentation

Technical writing

teamwork and communication

troubleshooting

Education

Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering

Master's in Mechanical Engineering (preferred)

Tools

CAD software

FEA software

3D printing equipment

Job description

The University of Texas at Austin seeks a Mechanical Engineer for the McDonald Observatory to design, build, test, and support optomechanical and electromechanical subsystems. The role involves applying mechanical, optical, electronic, vacuum, cryogenic, and software engineering across a range of astronomy instruments.

You'll contribute to instrument development, travel occasionally to the observatory, prepare technical reports, and collaborate with project teams while advancing precision