Mechanical Engineer I

NSF's NOIRLab is the preeminent US national center for ground-based, nighttime optical and infrared astronomy. NOIRLab is a Federally Funded Research and Development Center (FFRDC) which operates as a matrix organization, providing services across a range of programs: Gemini, Rubin, MSO (CTIO and KPNO), and CSDC; with facilities in three geographic locations: Arizona, Chile and Hawai'i. The mission of NOIRLab is to enable breakthrough discoveries in astrophysics by developing and operating state-of-the-art ground-based observatories and providing data products and services for a diverse and inclusive community.

As a Mechanical Engineer I, you will:

• Design and develop technical solutions for mechanical, electro-mechanical, and opto-mechanical systems.
• Work alongside interdisciplinary teams, solving technical challenges and developing improvements for existing systems while contributing to new instrument projects.
• Take on both hands-on and design-oriented tasks, with opportunities to spend time at telescope sites.
• Operate with a mix of independent work and collaborative efforts, under the guidance of senior engineers or project managers.

This entry-level position is perfect for recent graduates or early-career engineers eager to apply their foundational knowledge to real-world challenges.

Essential Functions:

• Design and Analysis:
  • Develop and implement simple to moderately complex mechanical, opto-mechanical, or electro-mechanical systems.
  • Use advanced tools such as CAD, CAE, and simulation software to create robust designs.
• Troubleshooting and Support:
  • Diagnose and resolve technical problems with telescopes and support systems.
  • Assist technicians with troubleshooting and maintenance tasks.
• Innovation and Improvement:
  • Propose and justify improvement projects, including technical, cost, and benefit analyses.
  • Stay informed about advancements in mechanical engineering and explore their potential applications.
• Collaboration and Communication:
  • Work closely with multidisciplinary teams to define requirements and deliver effective solutions.
  • Document designs, processes, and solutions clearly for technical and user audiences.
• Technical Expertise:
  • Develop strong knowledge in areas such as:
    • CAD/CAE
    • FEA and structural analysis
    • Thermal and vibration analysis
    • Cryogenic and vacuum systems
    • Opto-mechanical systems

Required Education/Experience/Skills/Abilities:

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a similar discipline is required.
• Master's degree or equivalent work experience is preferred.

Experience:

• Entry-level position: prior experience is desirable but not required.

Skills and Abilities:

• Solid understanding of mechanical engineering principles.
• Proficiency in one or more engineering software programs (e.g., CAD, FEA, CFD).
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to analyze, design, fabricate, and maintain mechanical systems.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, especially for technical documentation and collaborative work.
• Ability to work effectively with diverse teams across distributed locations.
• A strong command of English, both written and spoken.

Other Requirements:

• Familiarity with revision control, change management, and documentation best practices.
• Ability to comply with government award terms and conditions and properly manage organizational property.

Physical Demands:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel and talk or hear.
• The employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; reach with hands and arms and stoop; kneel; crouch; or crawl.
• The employee must regularly lift and /or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.
• Must be able to sit for long periods of time; must be able to drive a 4-w drive vehicle and possess a clean driving record; to take and pass high altitude physical; to travel internationally and must possess or can obtain a valid passport.
• Must possess sufficient mobility, strength, or dexterity in both arms and hands and both legs to a) reach upward, sideways, downward to work with paper files; b) sufficient mobility and dexterity to utilize computer systems, fax machines, copiers, and other office machines.
• Must possess 1) ability to read and understand instructions, drawings, safety guides, and other written materials necessary to perform job; 2) sufficient visual capacity to perform the applicable functions without assistance of visual aids other than eye contacts or eye glasses; 3) sufficient spoken aural capacity to hear and understand instructions, warning bells, fire alarms, or shouted instructions without assistance of auditory aids other than a hearing aid; and 4) ability to impart information orally so others understand and can respond appropriately.

AURA offers an excellent benefits package including paid time off and retirement plan contributions, competitive salary commensurate with experience, and a very attractive work environment. Details on benefits can be found at

The position will remain open until it is filled. To be considered in the first round of reviews, please submit your application by Thursday, February 13th, 2025.

• Please submit a cover letter and a CV or resume in English, PDF files preferred. Please name any attachments with the following format: Lastname Docname.
• Please enter 3 professional references in your application (references will only be contacted later in the recruitment process).

Veterans, disabled individuals or wounded warriors needing assistance with the employment process should request assistance at

The Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA) is a consortium of 49 US institutions and 3 international affiliates that operates world-class astronomical observatories for the National Science Foundation and NASA. AURA's role is to establish, nurture, and promote public observatories and facilities that advance innovative astronomical research. In addition, AURA is deeply committed to public and educational outreach, and to diversity throughout the astronomical and scientific workforce. AURA carries out its role through its astronomical facilities.

As a recipient of U.S. Government funding, AURA is considered a government contractor and is subject to Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action regulations. As an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer, AURA does not discriminate based on race, sex, color, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity/gender identity expression, lawful political affiliations, veteran status, disability, and/or any other legally protected status under applicable federal, state, and local equal opportunity laws.