Caltech 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. We thrive on finding and cultivating talented people who are passionate about what they do. Join us and be a part of the diverse Caltech community.

Job Duties

• Perform senior-level mechanical engineering tasks from conceptual design to fabrication and commission of astronomical instrumentation for research observatories.
• Design and analyze optical instrumentation using Solidworks, ANSYS and Matlab software.
• Design and upgrade telescope drives, balance systems, structural mechanics, dome and shutter systems.
• Perform detailed finite element and thermal analysis of ambient and cryogenic optical systems.
• Integrate complex opto-electromechanical subsystems.
• Utilize controlled cleanroom environment for optical assembly and alignment.
• Meet strict fabrication deadlines and execute complex quotation and procurement efforts.
• Develop, execute and document test and alignment plans.
• Create engineering documentation including deliverable design manuals, alignment plans, and maintenance manuals.
• Contribute to peer-reviewed journal articles.
• Travel occasionally to mountaintop observatories in San Diego, California, and Mauna Kea, Hawaii.
• Oversee on-site installations of telescopes. No direct reports; no supervisory duties.

Basic Qualifications

– Master’s or equivalent degree in Mechanical Engineering with 4 years of experience as a Mechanical Engineer, Research Engineer, or Researcher; or Bachelor’s or equivalent degree in Mechanical Engineering plus 6 years of progressive, post-baccalaureate experience as a Mechanical Engineer, Research Engineer, or Researcher.

– Qualifying experience must include: 4 years in mechanical design, engineering and fabrication of instrumentation for large optical telescopes, including opto-mechanical and thermal design and analysis, optical alignment, writing technical documentation, following cleanroom protocols, telescope installation, and using SolidWorks, ANSYS and Matlab tools.

– Ability to travel for up to 3% travel in U.S. required, to observatories in San Diego, California, and Mauna Kea, Hawaii.