Mechanical Engineer

Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy; Hawaii; On-site; USD 96,000 - 137,500; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid time off

Retirement plan contributions

Competitive salary

Job summary

A renowned astronomical research organization in Hawaii seeks a Mechanical Engineer to support and enhance the DKIST facilities and equipment. The roles are available at two levels: Mechanical Engineer II and Mechanical Engineer III, with varying responsibilities and required experience ranging from 1 to 5 years. Candidates should have a Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering, with proficiency in CAD tools like SolidWorks and project management software. The position offers a competitive salary and excellent benefits in a collaborative work environment.

Qualifications

• 5+ years for Mechanical Engineer III role with experience in design and project management.
• 1+ year for Mechanical Engineer II role in mechanical engineering.
• Engineer-In-Training (EIT) license preferred for both levels.

Responsibilities

• Perform engineering design and analysis using CAD modeling.
• Oversee quality assurance and fabrication activities.
• Develop and document test procedures for system performance.

Skills

SolidWorks or equivalent 3D modeling software

MS Office

Mechanical machine components

Project management tools

General fabrication techniques

Education

Bachelor’s Degree (BS) in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

JIRA

Confluence

Job description

The Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope (DKIST) is the world’s most advanced solar observatory. We are seeking a Mechanical Engineer to play a vital role in maintaining, supporting, and enhancing the complex facilities and telescope mechanical systems that ensure the reliability of mission‑critical systems and help drive discoveries that deepen our understanding of the Sun.

The position is available at two levels—Mechanical Engineer II or Mechanical Engineer III—depending on the successful candidates’ experience, education, and demonstrated ability. All DKIST employees work in a collaborative, team‑based environment supporting observatory operations and maintenance.

The position is based at the Haleakalā Observatory site in Maui, Hawai‘i.

Job Level Summary

• Mechanical Engineer III: Leads engineering projects of moderate complexity and provides coordination support across one or more project phases or divisions of advanced mechanical systems. Plans and executes technical activities, resolves complex engineering problems, and exercises broad discretion with minimal supervision.
• Mechanical Engineer II: Performs moderately complex mechanical design and development tasks with moderate supervision. Leads and coordinates minor engineering projects to completion, resolves routine technical issues, and contributes to project planning and execution.

Essential Functions

• Perform engineering design and analysis using CAD modeling, simulation, and other computational tools.
• Support project execution by overseeing quality assurance, fabrication, and inspection activities for assigned systems and components.
• Develop, execute, and document test procedures to verify system and component performance.
• Assist in the development and execution of preventive maintenance activities for new and existing mechanical systems.
• Troubleshoot mechanical systems and components, identify root causes of failures, and implement corrective actions to restore functionality.
• Coordinate technical activities and resolve engineering issues in collaboration with multidisciplinary project teams.
• Prepare clear and comprehensive technical documentation and reports covering design, analysis, testing, and investigations.
• Engage in continuous professional development to support observatory objectives and evolving engineering requirements.
• Document and maintain accurate records of activities, mechanical upgrades, and system performance.
• Work in accordance with applicable safety standards; ensure safety of operations in areas under purview; report unsafe conditions and participate in team safety meetings.
• Show sensitivity to cultural, community, and environmental issues.
• Contribute to a collaborative, respectful, and productive workplace by maintaining open communication, supporting team efforts, and fostering a sense of belonging.
• Take initiative in professional development by seeking feedback, improving skills, and identifying growth opportunities; participate in training and development programs.
• Maintain proper management and control of all AURA property within the work area.
• Ensure compliance with government award terms and conditions as defined in the Vela Award Management system.
• Travel to vendor sites, trainings, and conferences as required.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
• Full list of essential functions per Job Level is in the Job Description.

Qualifications & Requirements

Education, Certification, and Experience

Mechanical Engineer III

• Bachelor’s Degree (BS) in Mechanical Engineering and Engineer‑In‑Training (EIT) (FE) license, required.
• 5+ years of general workforce experience in mechanical engineering with increasing responsibilities in design, analysis, project management, and implementation.
• Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred. Experience in research, development, or astronomical facilities and observing instruments preferred.

Mechanical Engineer II

• Bachelor’s Degree (BS) in Mechanical Engineering, required.
• 1+ year of general workforce experience in mechanical engineering with increasing responsibilities.
• Engineer‑In‑Training (EIT) (FE) license preferred.

Required Skills & Abilities

Mechanical Engineer III

• Proficient with general computer applications: MS Office, Google Drive & Apps, e‑mail, Slack, Adobe.
• Proficient with SolidWorks or equivalent 3D modeling software.
• Experience with mechanical machine components such as drive transmission elements, structures, actuators, mechanisms, hardware, bearings, gearing, lubrication.
• Knowledge of material properties and selection.
• Knowledge of general fabrication techniques.
• Proficient in project, workflow, and document tracking software such as JIRA and Confluence.

Preferred (Mechanical Engineer III)

• Experience with maintenance management systems, tools, software, and process development.
• Knowledge of GD&T concepts and methodology.
• Experience with FEM (ANSYS preferred) and CFD software tools.
• Experience with process control, thermal control, HVAC, and compressed air systems: pumps, piping, valves, transmitters, air handling units, chillers, compressors.
• Familiarity with advanced manufacturing operations, CNC machining & programming.
• Experience with high‑precision alignment tools: laser trackers, CMMs, theodolite.
• Familiarity with vibration principles, mitigation, and analysis tools.
• Familiarity with optics, opto‑mechanical design, clean‑room protocols, vacuum, and cryogenic systems.

Required (Mechanical Engineer II)

• Proficient with general computer applications: MS Office, Google Drive & Apps, e‑mail, Slack, Adobe.
• Proficient with SolidWorks or equivalent 3D modeling software.
• Experience with mechanical machine components such as drive transmission elements, structures, actuators, mechanisms, hardware, bearings, gearing, lubrication.
• Knowledge of material properties and selection.

Preferred (Mechanical Engineer II)

• Knowledge of general fabrication techniques.
• Proficient with project, workflow, and document tracking software: JIRA and Confluence.
• Experience with maintenance management systems, tools, software, and process development.
• Knowledge of GD&T concepts and methodology.
• Experience with process control, thermal control, HVAC, compressed air systems: pumps, piping, valves, transmitters, air handling units, chillers, compressors.
• Familiarity with advanced manufacturing operations: CNC machining & programming.

Physical Demands

• Remain stationary at least 50% of the time.
• Move around office to access files, tools, attend meetings.
• Operate computer and other office productivity tools requiring fine motor skills.
• Position oneself to maintain computer and related tools.
• Move technology equipment up to 20 lb across office locations.
• Communicate constantly, discern, exchange information appropriately.
• Identify and handle objects and fine details accurately.
• Occasional travel to and from locations in Boulder and Maui.
• Occasional work at high elevation summit sites (6,800–14,000 ft).

Salary Range

• Mechanical Engineer III – $113,000–$137,500
• Mechanical Engineer II – $96,000–$115,500

AURA offers an excellent benefits package including paid time off, retirement plan contributions, a competitive salary commensurate with experience, and a very attractive work environment. Benefits details can be found at https://hr.aura-astronomy.org/benefits-by-location/.

How to Apply

Apply by April 20, 2026 for priority consideration. This position will remain open until it is filled. Please submit a cover letter and a CV or resume (PDF files preferred). Name attachments as: Lastname Docname.

Individuals needing assistance with the employment process can request assistance here.