Optical Alignment Engineer — Adaptive Optics for Astronomy

University of Arizona; Tucson (AZ); On-site; USD 87,000 - 113,000; Full time

Job summary

The Center for Astronomical Adaptive Optics (CAAO) at Steward Observatory, University of Arizona, invites applications for an Optical Alignment Engineer. You will build, align, test, and integrate high-precision instruments for AO systems on major ground-based telescopes and space projects.

Candidates must hold a Bachelor's in Opto-Mechanical or Optical Engineering, with at least five years in optical alignment and design, and be proficient in ZEMAX and SolidWorks, plus cleanroom and

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Opto-Mechanical or Optical Engineering.
• Minimum of 5 years experience in optical alignment, testing, and design.
• Thorough knowledge of optical design and AO concepts.

Responsibilities

• Instrument Alignment, Integration, and Testing: align and test high-precision instruments in a cleanroom using interferometers, Faro arms, and other CMMs.
• Optical Design: create designs with ZEMAX meeting scientific specs for astronomical observations and document results.
• Opto-Mechanical Design: collaborate with mechanical engineers to implement optical designs.
• Optics Ordering: translate designs to procurement requirements and liaise with vendors.

Skills

Optical alignment experience

Hands-on testing

Interdisciplinary communication

Cleanroom protocols

Education

Bachelor's degree in Opto-Mechanical or Optical Engineering

Tools

ZEMAX

SolidWorks

Job description

The Center for Astronomical Adaptive Optics (CAAO) at Steward Observatory, University of Arizona, invites applications for an Optical Alignment Engineer. You will build, align, test, and integrate high-precision instruments for AO systems on major ground-based telescopes and space projects.

Candidates must hold a Bachelor's in Opto-Mechanical or Optical Engineering, with at least five years in optical alignment and design, and be proficient in ZEMAX and SolidWorks, plus cleanroom and