Research Technologist II, Steward Observatory

Phase2 Technology; Tucson (AZ); On-site; USD 59,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

A research institution in Tucson is seeking a Research Technologist II to support astronomical operations and maintenance. Role includes working with telescopes and instrumentation, troubleshooting, and collaborating with researchers. Ideal candidates should hold a Bachelor's degree and have at least 3 years of experience. Competitive salary and full benefits offered.

Benefits

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays

Tuition reduction for employees and family members

Retirement plans

Access to recreation and cultural activities

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3 years of relevant work experience required.
• Valid driver's license necessary to drive according to the University Fleet Safety Policy.

Responsibilities

• Leads or assists with chemical stripping and aluminization for astronomical mirrors.
• Configures, maintains, and tests astronomical research instruments.
• Communicates with researchers on technical issues regarding instrumentation.
• Performs maintenance and troubleshooting of telescopes and domes.
• Conducts minor building and grounds maintenance.

Skills

General understanding of industry practices, techniques, and standards

Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Intermediate to advanced computer skills

Adept at handling delicate optics and electronics

Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience

Tools

Linux

Windows

Microsoft Office

Job description

Overview

Research Technologist II, Steward Observatory

Posting Number: req24146 • Department: Steward Observatory • Location: Main Campus • Address: Tucson, AZ USA

The Mountain Operations group at Steward Observatory is seeking candidates for the position of Research Technologist II (RTII). Mountain Operations provides maintenance and operational support for mountaintop observatories on Kitt Peak, Mt. Graham, and in the Santa Catalina Mountains, as well as the Steward 21" telescope on the University of Arizona campus. The successful candidate will provide maintenance and basic operations support for research facility equipment at the optical telescopes of these observatories. This includes mounting, servicing, and removing astronomical research instrumentation, performing standard instrument performance checks, and maintaining and troubleshooting telescopes and domes. The RTII will provide technical and scientific expertise to the Sunnyside Mirror Coating Facility of Steward Observatory and will lead or assist with the coating of large telescope optics. The position requires the ability to work long, irregular shifts and have the ability to take occasional after-hours call-outs, nights, and weekends. Additional physical requirements are described below.

Benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; and access to recreation and cultural activities. The University of Arizona has been recognized for innovative work-life programs. For more information about working at the University of Arizona and relocation services, please click here.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Leads or assists with the chemical stripping and aluminization process for astronomical mirrors used in research and education at the University of Arizona and for reflective optics contracted to be coated at the University of Arizona aluminizing facility by other institutions. Assists in the maintenance of the 84" vacuum chamber and several smaller facility vacuum chambers and supporting pumping systems. Assists with ordering laboratory consumables, preparation of chemical solutions, and making of filaments and aluminum loads. Works with Operations Manager to ensure laboratory equipment and infrastructure are functioning properly and well maintained. Assists in the creation and upkeep of procedures and manuals.
• Configures, maintains, and tests sophisticated astronomical research instruments used at various telescopes. Verifies that the instrumentation and telescopes are functioning properly before use by researchers. Initiates trouble-shooting procedures if problems are encountered. Installs and removes instrumentation from telescopes as dictated by the research schedule. Assists the Operations Manager in testing facility instrumentation and with laboratory setup at the Steward Mountain Ops camera lab on the University of Arizona campus.
• 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 in the course of producing user, engineering, and safety manuals and web pages. Administers, advises, and participates in projects initiated to improve the overall efficiency and/or safety of research instrumentation, control software, and telescopes.
• Performs telescope and dome maintenance and troubleshooting. Operates and maintains observatory equipment. Leads or assists with the preparation of telescopes and instruments for use, and ensures the proper operation of telescopes and related equipment. Confers with engineers to define and refine procedures. Transports instruments, cryogenic liquids, compressed gases, supplies and equipment.
• Performs minor building and grounds 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 pipes, and related plumbing fixtures. Uses power tools, hand tools, and voltmeters to perform repair and maintenance work. Clears site of brush and snow as required, which may involve shoveling or plowing snow. May be required to assist with custodial duties as needed. Additional duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• General understanding of industry practices, techniques, and standards.
• Ability to perform duties with a high degree of independence and limited or minimal supervision.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Intermediate to advanced computer skills, including proficiency using Linux, Windows, and Microsoft Office.
• Adept at properly handling delicate optics and electronics.
• Ability to understand, use, and service optical systems, complex hardware, electronics, and associated control and analysis software.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to work long, irregular shifts and have the ability to take occasional after-hours call-outs, nights, weekends, and holidays.
• 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 located 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.

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 or equivalent advanced learning attained through professional level experience required.
• Minimum of 3 years of relevant work experience, or equivalent combination of education and work experience.
• Must have a valid driver's license and ability to drive according to the University Fleet Safety Policy.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with telescopes and astronomical instrumentation
• Experience working in a multi-disciplinary team environment
• Experience with telescope optics
• Experience with state-of-the-art research or complex instrumentation/equipment
• Experience using vacuum technology, cleanroom methods, and working with cryogenic liquids
• Experience operating heavy equipment, including snow removal equipment
• Experience driving a 4x4 vehicle
• Experience installing snow chains
• Experience using handheld and vehicle two-way radios
• Experience driving up and down mountain roads
• Experience driving under adverse conditions (snow, ice, wind, thunderstorms)

Other Details

• FLSA: Exempt
• Full Time/Part Time: Full Time
• Hours per Week: 40
• Job FTE: 1
• Work Calendar: Fiscal
• Job Category: Research
• Benefits Eligible: Yes - Full Benefits
• Rate of Pay: 59,404 - 74,254
• Compensation Type: Salary at 1.0 FTE
• Grade: 8
• Career Stream and Level: PC2
• Job Family: Research & Lab
• Job Function: Research
• Type of criminal background check: Name-based (non-security sensitive)
• Number of Vacancies: 1
• Target Hire Date: 11/17/2025
• Open Date: 10/10/2025
• Open Until Filled: Yes
• Documents Needed to Apply: Resume and Cover Letter
• Contact Information for Candidates: Joseph Hoscheidt, [e-mail]

Special Instructions to Applicant:

Notes

Notice of Availability of the Annual Security and Fire Safety Report: In compliance with the Clery Act, the University releases an Annual Security Report (ASR). Paper copies available by contacting [e-mail].