Research Engineering Optical Fabrication Technician III, Steward Observatory

University of Arizona; Tucson (AZ); On-site; USD 35,000 - 44,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Arizona's Steward Observatory seeks a Research Engineering Optical Fabrication Technician III for the Richard F. Caris Mirror Lab. The role involves operating large-scale mirror fabrication equipment, measuring with precision, and supporting a weekend night shift from 9:00 PM to 9:00 AM with a federal contract requiring U.S.

citizenship. The position offers full benefits, a 40-hour work week, and opportunities to train junior technicians while contributing to world-class telescope

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Minimum of 5 years of relevant experience or equivalent combination of education and work experience.
• This position requires U.S. citizenship due to federal contract.

Responsibilities

• Support team leader in operating LOG and LPM equipment to fabricate large telescope mirrors (3m–8.4m, up to 18 tons).
• Perform duties with minimal supervision following established procedures and safety standards.
• Take precise measurements using optical, physical, and ultrasonic methods to verify mirror conformance to specifications.
• Train and guide junior technicians and ensure proper handling and movement of mirrors with safety protocols.

Skills

Team leadership

Independent work

Coaching

MS Word/Excel

Education

High school diploma

Tools

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Excel

Job description

Research Engineering Optical Fabrication Technician III, Steward Observatory

Position Highlights

Steward Observatory is both a century-old observatory on the University of Arizona campus and one of the University's oldest research units. Founded in 1918, the Observatory brings together students, staff, faculty, engineers, and technicians to explore the universe and share discoveries through world-class research, education, and outreach. With more than 180 professionals supporting advanced facilities, laboratories, and observatories, Steward Observatory offers a collaborative environment where technical expertise plays a critical role in advancing ground- and space-based astronomy.

The University of Arizona's Steward Observatory invites you to apply for the role of Research Engineering Optical Fabrication Technician III. The Richard F. Caris Mirror Lab is a one-of-a-kind facility that produces telescope mirrors from 3m to 8.4m in diameter that are used in telescopes around the world. This position supports the hands-on operation of mirror grinding and polishing equipment, measurement instruments, and transport equipment used during mirror fabrication.

This position supports the technical lead of a weekend night shift with hours of 9:00 PM to 9:00 AM on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.

This position supports a federal contract which requires that the selected candidate be a U.S. citizen (non-U.S. citizens or dual citizens cannot be considered for this position).

Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more!

For more information about working at the University of Arizona and relocations services, please.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Supports the team leader with the operations of the LOG (Large Optical Generator) and the LPM (Large Polishing Machine) to generate, fine grind, and polish large telescope mirrors ranging from 3m to 8.4m in diameter and weighing up to 18 tons.
• Performs duties with minimal supervision while following established procedures, and safety standards.
• Demonstrates knowledge of operating requirements and technical processes related to the optical fabrication of large-scale mirror production.
• Works with a team of technicians to take precise measurements, including optical, physical, and ultrasonic methods, to evaluate mirror conformance to scientists' and engineers' specifications including HREP, SCOTS, SLOTS, Test Plate, and Laser Tracker Measurements.
• Guides and trains lower-level staff.
• Supports the movement of mirrors throughout the lab using an air cart within inches of fixed obstacles. Works with team members on proper positioning of mirrors and follows the safety protocols required during the process.
• Enters data into the project logbooks and spreadsheets, including information on runs, measurements, machine parameters, and notes on run results. Filling out Daily reports.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs)

• Ability to lead a group of technicians in operating specialized equipment.
• Ability to work with minimal supervision.
• Ability to train and coach junior team members.
• Proficient with Microsoft Word and Microsoft Excel.

Physical Requirements and Environmental Demands

• Frequently lifts, moves, and transports equipment, tools, and materials associated with large-scale mirror fabrication processes (up to 50 lbs.) as required.
• Works in a manufacturing and laboratory environment where noise levels may require raised voices or hearing protection.
• Works in proximity to grinding, polishing, measurement, and transport equipment, as well as moving mechanical parts, electrical equipment, elevated work areas, and chemicals used in fabrication processes.
• May have skin or airborne exposure to oils, lubricants, cutting fluids, and other materials used in optical fabrication operations.
• Follow established safety protocols and personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements.

This job posting reflects the general nature and level of work expected of the selected candidate(s). It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The institution reserves the right to amend or update this description as organizational priorities and institutional needs evolve.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or high school diploma equivalency is required.
• Minimum of 5 years of relevant experience, or equivalent combination of education and work experience.
• This position supports a federal contract which requires that the selected candidate be a U.S. citizen (non-U.S. citizens or dual citizens cannot be considered for this position).

Preferred Qualifications

• Extensive working knowledge of large optic handling, generation, fine grinding, polishing, and metrology.
• Experience leading and training junior technicians.

Employment Details

• FLSA: Non-Exempt
• Full Time: Full Time
• Number of Hours Worked per Week: 40
• Job FTE: 1.0
• Work Calendar: Fiscal
• Job Category: Research
• Benefits Eligible: Yes - Full Benefits
• Rate of Pay: $25.50 - $31.88
• Compensation Type: hourly rate
• Grade: 7
• Number of Vacancies: 1
• Job Family: Research Engineering
• Job Function: Research
• Type of criminal background check required: Name-based criminal background check (non-security sensitive)

Compensation Guidance

The Rate of Pay Field represents the University of Arizona's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. The University considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, and internal equity.

The Grade Range represent a full range of career compensation growth over time. The university offers compensation growth opportunities within its career architecture. To learn more about compensation, please review our Applicant Compensation Guide and our Total Rewards Calculator.

Contact Information for Candidates

Chip Ragan
Manager, RFC Mirror Lab
[e-mail]