Research Technologist I, Steward Observatory

University of Arizona; Tucson (AZ); Hybrid; USD 53,000 - 66,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Full benefits

Job summary

The University of Arizona's Steward Observatory is seeking a Research Technologist I to support mountaintop observatories at Kitt Peak, Mt. Graham, and the Santa Catalina Mountains.

You will mount, service, and test scientific instruments, perform performance checks, and help with coatings at the Mirror Aluminizing Facility. Required are a related-degree, strong communication skills, and the ability to work long shifts including nights/weekends; valid driver’s license and readiness to travel to

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Astronomy, Physics, Engineering or related field or equivalent advanced learning attained through professional level experience required.
• Minimum of 1 year of relevant work experience is required.
• Must have a valid driver’s license and ability to drive according to the University Fleet Safety Policy.

Responsibilities

• Configures, maintains, and tests sophisticated astronomical research instruments used at various telescopes.
• Verifies that the instrumentation and telescope are functioning properly.
• Initiates trouble-shooting procedures if problems are encountered.
• Installs and removes instrumentation from telescopes as dictated by the research schedule.
• Advises and participates in projects initiated to improve the overall efficiency and/or safety of research instrumentation, control software, and telescopes.
• Provides assistance at the Mirror Aluminizing Facility in all of the processes required to put new reflective coatings on astronomical mirrors used in research and education at the University of Arizona and for reflective optics contracted to be coated by other institutions.
• Responsibilities include operating and maintaining the vacuum systems used at the aluminizing facility and at Steward Observatory's remote telescope sites.
• Communicates with researchers, staff, and engineers on a wide variety of technical issues dealing with instrumentation, optics, and telescope operation and performance.
• Trains researchers on the use of instrumentation and telescopes.
• Documents use and maintenance of research equipment, assists with maintaining the Mountain Operations WIKI, and assists with other documentation and record-keeping as needed.
• Transports instruments, cryogenic liquids, compressed gases, supplies and equipment to and from remote mountaintop sites.
• Performs minor building and ground maintenance.
• This could include plumbing, electrical and carpentry maintenance and repairs such as replacing solenoid valves, switches, relays, and thermostats, rewiring appliances, construction partitions, installing pipe and related plumbing fixtures.
• Uses power tools, hand tools, voltmeter to perform repair and maintenance work.
• May be required to assist with custodial duties and/or clearing site of brush and snow, which can involve shoveling or plowing snow.

Skills

Excellent written communication

Oral communication

Computer skills

Optics/electronics handling

Education

Bachelor's degree in Astronomy, Physics, Engineering or related field

Tools

Linux/Unix

Windows OS

Microsoft Office

Networking basics

Job description

Research Technologist I, Steward Observatory

Position Highlights

The Mountain Operations group at Steward Observatory is seeking a candidate for the position of Research Technologist I. Mountain Operations provides maintenance and operational support for mountaintop observatories at Kitt Peak, Mt. Graham, and in the Santa Catalina Mountains. The successful candidate will provide support at these remote observatories, including mounting, servicing, and removing astronomical research instrumentation, performing standard instrument performance checks, and maintaining and troubleshooting telescopes and domes. Additional responsibilities include maintaining telescope buildings, associated dormitories, and observatory facility grounds as needed, as well as assisting with and participating in the coating of large telescope optics at the Mirror Aluminizing Facility. The role also involves working with optical systems, complex hardware, electronics, high-vacuum systems, and associated control and analysis software. Candidates should be prepared to work long, irregular shifts and respond to occasional after-hours call-outs, including nights and weekends. Additional physical requirements are described below.

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.

Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

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

Duties & Responsibilities

• Configures, maintains, and tests sophisticated astronomical research instruments used at various telescopes.
• Verifies that the instrumentation and telescope are functioning properly.
• Initiates trouble-shooting procedures if problems are encountered.
• Installs and removes instrumentation from telescopes as dictated by the research schedule.
• Advises and participates in projects initiated to improve the overall efficiency and/or safety of research instrumentation, control software, and telescopes.
• Provides assistance at the Mirror Aluminizing Facility in all of the processes required to put new reflective coatings on astronomical mirrors used in research and education at the University of Arizona and for reflective optics contracted to be coated by other institutions.
• Responsibilities include operating and maintaining the vacuum systems used at the aluminizing facility and at Steward Observatory's remote telescope sites.
• Communicates with researchers, staff, and engineers on a wide variety of technical issues dealing with instrumentation, optics, and telescope operation and performance.
• Trains researchers on the use of instrumentation and telescopes.
• Documents use and maintenance of research equipment, assists with maintaining the Mountain Operations WIKI, and assists with other documentation and record-keeping as needed.
• Transports instruments, cryogenic liquids, compressed gases, supplies and equipment to and from remote mountaintop sites.
• Performs minor building and ground maintenance.
• This could include plumbing, electrical and carpentry maintenance and repairs such as replacing solenoid valves, switches, relays, and thermostats, rewiring appliances, construction partitions, installing pipe and related plumbing fixtures.
• Uses power tools, hand tools, voltmeter to perform repair and maintenance work.
• May be required to assist with custodial duties and/or clearing site of brush and snow, which can involve shoveling or plowing snow.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Intermediate computer skills, including proficiency with Microsoft Windows and Office and basic familiarity with networking and computer hardware.
• Ability to properly delicate optics and electronics.
• Ability to understand and use/service optical systems, complex hardware, electronics, and associated control and analysis software.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work long, irregular shifts, which may occasionally include weekends and holidays and to take occasional after-hours calls.
• Ability to lift/transport up to 50 lbs and routinely climb stairs and ladders at altitude.
• Ability to work for extended periods of time at remote sites at elevations up to 11,000 feet.
• Ability to work in extreme mountain weather conditions.
• Ability to work at heights in excess of 90 feet off the ground
• Ability to install snow and drive a 4 x 4 vehicle on mountain roads

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

• Bachelor's degree in Astronomy, Physics, Engineering or related field or equivalent advanced learning attained through professional level experience required.
• Minimum of 1 year of relevant work experience is required.
• Must have a valid driver’s license and ability to drive according to the University Fleet Safety Policy .

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with state of the art research or complex instrumentation/equipment.
• Experience with telescopes and astronomical instrumentation.
• Experience working in a multi-disciplinary team environment.
• Experience with Linux or Unix operating systems.
• Experience with telescope optics.
• Experience using handheld and vehicle two-way radios.
• May be installing snow chains, drive a 4x4 vehicle on mountain roads, and/or drive under adverse conditions (e.g., snow, ice, wind, and thunderstorms).

FLSA Exempt

Full Time/Part 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 $53,039-$66,299

Compensation Type salary at 1.0 full-time equivalency (FTE)

Grade 7

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 .

Career Stream and Level PC1

Job Family Research & Lab

Job Function Research

Type of criminal background check required: Name-based criminal background check (non-security sensitive)

Number of Vacancies 1

Target Hire Date

Expected End Date

Contact Information for Candidates Ariel Gilbert Knight
Research Program Administration Officer II
[e-mail]

Open Date 10/13/2026

Open Until Filled Yes

Documents Needed to Apply Resume and Cover Letter

Special Instructions to Applicant

Notice of Availability of the Annual Security and Fire Safety Report In compliance with the Jeanne Clery Campus Safety Act (Clery Act), each year the University of Arizona releases an Annual Security Report (ASR) for each of the University’s campuses.Thesereports disclose information including Clery crime statistics for the previous three calendar years and policies, procedures, and programs the University uses to keep students and employees safe, including how to report crimes or other emergencies and resources for crime victims. As a campus with residential housing facilities, the Main Campus ASR also includes a combined Annual Fire Safety report with information on fire statistics and fire safety systems, policies, and procedures.
Paper copies of the Reports can be obtained by contacting the University Compliance Office at [e-mail].