Instrumentation Mechanical Engineer for Observatory Projects

University of Texas; Utah; On-site; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Vision, dental, life insurance

Paid vacation & holidays

Retirement plan (TRS)

403(b) & 457(b) plans

Flexible spending accounts

Job summary

The University of Texas at Austin invites applications for a Mechanical Engineer at the McDonald Observatory. Based on the UT Austin campus, the role supports instrument and telescope development across mechanical, optical, electronic, vacuum, cryogenic, and software domains.

You will design, prototype, test, and document subsystems for astronomy instruments, with opportunities to publish and present findings. Occasional travel to the observatory is required.

Qualifications

• BS in Mechanical Engineering or related field with 6+ years experience, or MS with 4+ years.
• Experience writing specs and designing mechanical parts/assemblies.
• CAD design experience and use of FEA for validation.
• 3D printing for prototypes and finished parts when appropriate.
• Experience in tolerancing, procuring custom parts, and sourcing off-the-shelf hardware.
• Strong communication and ability to work independently on instrumentation projects.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop scientific instrumentation and mechanical equipment with broad discretion.
• Collaborate with leadership to define concepts and requirements for new projects.
• Build prototypes, perform analyses, and prepare reports.
• Create fabrication drawings and oversee parts fabrication.
• Coordinate assembly, deployment, commissioning, and field support.
• Document results and present design reviews and journal publications when appropriate.

Skills

CAD design

FEA analysis

3D printing

Prototyping

Design reviews

Technical communication

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering

Master's Degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

CAD software

FEA software

Job description

The University of Texas at Austin invites applications for a Mechanical Engineer at the McDonald Observatory. Based on the UT Austin campus, the role supports instrument and telescope development across mechanical, optical, electronic, vacuum, cryogenic, and software domains.

You will design, prototype, test, and document subsystems for astronomy instruments, with opportunities to publish and present findings. Occasional travel to the observatory is required.