Telescope Electrical Systems Engineer (Power & Backup)

AURA; Tucson (AZ); On-site; USD 112,000 - 124,000; Full time

Job summary

NSF NOIRLab seeks an Electrical Systems Engineer to support the Mayall 4-meter Telescope electrical infrastructure at Kitt Peak National Observatory, based in Tucson, AZ. The role focuses on assessing, maintaining, and upgrading power systems to ensure reliable delivery to critical telescope equipment.

You will design robust backup power strategies, coordinate with engineering, facilities, safety, and operations teams, and oversee external contractors. NEC knowledge and PE license preferred.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or related field.
• 7–10 years of professional experience in design, operation, and maintenance of industrial or mission-critical electrical systems.
• Experience with generator systems, UPS systems, power distribution systems, and switchgear.
• Knowledge of NEC and applicable safety standards.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate the current electrical power infrastructure supporting the Mayall Telescope, including medium- and low-voltage distribution systems.
• Update and maintain electrical documentation, drawings, and schematics.
• Develop and implement upgrades to ensure stable, high-quality power delivery to telescope and facility systems.
• Lead the design and integration of backup power systems (generators, UPS, transfer systems).
• Monitor performance, reliability, and load characteristics of generators and distribution systems.
• Collaborate with telescope engineering, facilities, safety, and operations teams to minimize impact during maintenance and upgrades.

Skills

Electrical systems design

Troubleshooting

Documentation

Analytical thinking

Microsoft Office

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Tools

EPLAN

AutoCAD

Job description

NSF NOIRLab seeks an Electrical Systems Engineer to support the Mayall 4-meter Telescope electrical infrastructure at Kitt Peak National Observatory, based in Tucson, AZ. The role focuses on assessing, maintaining, and upgrading power systems to ensure reliable delivery to critical telescope equipment.

You will design robust backup power strategies, coordinate with engineering, facilities, safety, and operations teams, and oversee external contractors. NEC knowledge and PE license preferred.