Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy · 1 week ago
Opto Mechanical Engineer I
Boulder, Colorado, United States
Full-time
Onsite
Mid, Senior Level
$93K/yr - $110K/yr
5+ years expThe Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy is seeking an Opto-Mechanical Engineer I to support the ngGONG project’s scientific goals by designing and implementing opto-mechanical components. This role involves collaborating with senior engineers and cross-disciplinary teams to ensure high-precision hardware for solar observations.
Non Profit
Responsibilities
Participate as a member of the engineering design team to support opto‑mechanical subsystems, ranging from large optics to complex mechanical components, and to contribute to overall optical system alignment activities
Design, develop, and analyze opto‑mechanical subsystems in the telescope and instrumentation under the guidance of senior engineers
Develop optical component and mechanical assembly designs, including tools and fixtures for optical alignment and test. Assist in creating alignment, assembly, and test procedures, including sensitivity matrices and measurement plans, and in analyzing position and wavefront error of designed components
Assist in creating and maintaining optical and mechanical models using the relevant software tools (e.g., SolidWorks, Zemax, SpatialAnalyzer), ensuring they are current and consistent with design changes
Contribute to the analysis of scientific and engineering requirements and help interpret these requirements in technical terms for opto‑mechanical design
Participate in theoretical and practical investigations in the areas of optics, metrology, and ancillary systems, under the direction of senior engineers
Contribute to the solution of scientific or engineering problems where only general objectives are stated, seeking guidance from senior engineers as needed
Be responsible for compliance with applicable safety standards and for safe operations in areas under purview, including promptly reporting unsafe conditions and practices
Cooperate and coordinate closely with other personnel involved with assigned design and development tasks, including engineers, technicians, and project staff
May provide guidance to project‑assigned support personnel (e.g., technicians) for specific tasks, under the direction of senior engineers
Recommend changes in scope of work as design progresses and new knowledge is obtained, escalating such recommendations through appropriate channels
Comply with technical requirements of assigned work and approved schedules; report results of activities, document findings, and flag unusual situations or issues for senior review
Other duties as assigned
Qualification
Required
Associate's or Bachelor's degree in physics, mathematics, engineering, or a closely related field, or at least five years of equivalent experience in a relevant technical role
Approximately five years of experience in the design, integration, alignment, manufacturing, and/or maintenance of precision opto‑mechanical systems (or a combination of education and experience providing similar capability)
Working knowledge of optical and mechanical design software (SolidWorks preferred)
Ability to resolve technical problems by applying engineering and physics principles relevant to opto‑mechanical design, including the use of 3‑D CAD tools and sound design practices
Good organizational skills and good written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to document work clearly and follow written procedures
Preferred
Experience in integration, alignment, and test of astronomical observatory optical systems or similar high‑precision optical systems
Familiarity with alignment equipment such as interferometers and/or CMM arms, and use of Spatial Analyzer or equivalent portable metrology software for large‑scale applications
Hands‑on experience with handling and cleaning small to large optics in a lab or observatory environment (approximately six months or more)
Ability to read and interpret optical drawings and tolerances
Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings and tolerances
Experience in cleanroom usage, upkeep, and operation
Demonstrated ability to learn new tools and techniques and to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary engineering team
Benefits
Paid time off
Retirement plan contributions
Competitive salary commensurate with experience
Very attractive work environment
Company
Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy
AURA is a consortium of 40 US institutions and 6 international affiliates that operates world-class astronomical observatories.
1001-5000 employees
H1B Sponsorship
Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy 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
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2025 (13)
2024 (13)
2023 (9)
2022 (14)
2021 (10)
2020 (11)
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageLeadership Team
Jack Tade, CPA
Deputy Chief Financial Officer
Theresa H.
Human Resources Business Partner
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