Caltech · 22 hours ago
Mechanical Technician
Palomar Mountain, CA
Full-time
Onsite
Entry, Mid Level
$30.50/hr - $35/hr
2+ years expCaltech is a world-renowned science and engineering institute that marshals some of the world's brightest minds and most innovative tools to address fundamental scientific questions. The Mechanical Technician will perform skilled mechanical installation, maintenance, and repair of observatory equipment while working closely with telescope support groups and the Chief Engineer.
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Responsibilities
Works with the mechanical group in support of facility operations and maintenance
Assembly, installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of industrial and scientific equipment, including mechanical power transmission systems, hydraulics, precision mechanisms, opto-mechanical, and structural assemblies
Basic design and fabrication of custom fixtures, devices, or modifications to existing equipment
Participate in the service and maintenance of large telescope optics
Performs equipment rigging, lifting, and setting using cranes, hoists, jacks, and lifting hardware
Updates mechanical drawings and maintains observatory site-based documentation
Tracks current design trends and availability of new technology as applicable to new or upgraded equipment, devices, or processes
Other duties as assigned
Qualification
Required
At least 2 years of relevant experience, resulting in working knowledge of methods, practices, procedures, and tools used in completing major repairs, maintenance, and overhaul of mechanical equipment
Skilled in the use of power and hand tools
Skilled in precision mechanical measurement and alignment
Demonstrated troubleshooting skills in solving technical problems
Knowledgeable in reading and interpreting engineering drawings and specifications
Ability to work under conditions involving considerable physical effort and dexterity with frequent exposure to inclement weather, natural elements, and working conditions
Requires knowledge of safety measures related to maintenance and repair work in elevated and confined spaces
Excellent communication skills
Able to work productively in a team environment
Able to lift 25 lbs. of tools and materials
Able to wear respirators
Able to work at a site altitude of 6000'
Must have a valid driver's license at the time of employment and be able to maintain it throughout the course of employment
Resume
Preferred
Previous Observatory experience
Heavy rigging experience
Basic knowledge of industrial equipment, electrical power, and control circuits
Knowledge of OptoMechanics
Skilled in the use of a variety of machine shop equipment, such as lathes, mills, drills, saws, and grinders
Skilled in the use of precision measuring instruments such as micrometers, dial indicators, and gauges
Experienced with computer-aided design software
Able to weld, solder, and braze safely and efficiently
Knowledge of Vacuum Coating Systems
Basic computer skills, including proficiency with Microsoft Office applications
Degree or technical certifications
Benefits
Health, dental, and vision insurance
Retirement savings plans
Generous paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick time, parental leave, bereavement, etc.)
Tuition reimbursement
Onsite counseling
Sick time
Company
Caltech
Caltech is a science and engineering research and education institution.
1001-5000 employees
H1B Sponsorship
Caltech has a track record of offering H1B sponsorships. Please note that this does not
guarantee sponsorship for this specific role. Below presents additional info for your
reference. (Data Powered by US Department of Labor)
Distribution of Different Job Fields Receiving Sponsorship
Represents job field similar to this job
Trends of Total Sponsorships
2025 (156)
2024 (95)
2023 (105)
2022 (83)
2021 (30)
2020 (22)
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageTotal Funding
$86.51MKey Investors
US Department of EnergyAlfred P. Sloan Foundation
2024-07-17Grant· $10M
2019-09-27Grant· $75M
2019-01-01Grant· $1.51M
Leadership Team
Frances Arnold
Linus Pauling Professor
John Preskill
Richard P. Feynman Professor of Theoretical Physics
Recent News
2025-12-17
PhysOrg.com
2025-12-03
Company data provided by crunchbase