Mechanical Engineer, Astronomical Instrumentation

University of Texas

Austin, Northern (TX, KY)

Hybrid

USD 85,000 - 110,000

Full time

14 days+

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Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Paid vacation and holidays

Retirement plan

Flexible spending accounts

Job summary

The University of Texas invites applications for a Mechanical Engineer at McDonald Observatory. This on-campus role expects collaboration across mechanical, optical, electronic, vacuum, cryogenic, and software disciplines to develop instrumentation for astronomy.

Occasional travel to the observatory is required. Qualifications include a BS (or MS) in mechanical engineering with several years of hands-on design, CAD/FEA, prototyping, and fabrication experience, plus strong communication and

Qualifications

BS in Mechanical Engineering or related field with 6+ years’ experience; MS with 4+ years also acceptable.
Experience writing specifications and designing mechanical parts/assemblies.
CAD design of mechanical assemblies and validation with FEA.
Prototyping via 3D printing and fabrication of parts as needed.
Experience sourcing, tolerancing, and procuring custom and off-the-shelf parts.
Strong documentation, reporting, and collaboration across teams.

Responsibilities

Design and develop scientific instrumentation and mechanical subsystems.
Create detailed requirements, designs, modeling, and analyses with independent judgment.
Produce fabrication drawings and oversee part fabrication.
Direct assembly, deployment, commissioning, and field support.
Document results, participate in design reviews, and publish when appropriate.
Develop ongoing engineering skills and evaluate new technologies.