Research ScientistEngineer 2 (E S UAW Research)

Job Description

The University of Washington (UW) Astronomy Department has an outstanding opportunity for a researcher who will have responsibilities in the design development construction and testing of space-based and ground-based instrumentation including the upcoming Ocotillo Spectrograph and the DISCO Small Mission Explorer satellite project. This position works closely with the Apache Point Observatory (APO) which will be the home of the Ocotillo spectrograph (and other instruments built and maintained by the group).

For more information please visit the observatory website:

Apache Point Observatory

The successful candidate will work in the Tuttle Lab on instrument projects including but not limited to Ocotillo and DISCO. The successful candidate is expected to participate in the deployment and commissioning of the hardware and software both at Apache Point Observatory and Las Campanas Observatory.

The successful candidate will work in the Tuttle Lab on instrument projects including but not limited to Ocotillo and DISCO. The successful candidate is expected to participate in the deployment and commissioning of the hardware and software both at Apache Point Observatory and Las Campanas Observatory.

The successful candidate will become part of the Telescope Engineering Group (TEG) at University of Washington where they will be able to collaborate with other scientists and engineers working in the development of instrumentation and software for Apache Point Observatory and other facilities. The TEG fosters an inclusive climate where innovation and creativity are encouraged.

The ideal candidate should be a motivated self-starter who excels at managing multiple projects and priorities.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• External optomechanical design work with collaborators and vendors (partial and full instrument systems from fiber handling to spectrograph channels) (25%)

• Design and assembly work for Apache Point Observatory. Includes fiber optics bulk optics and infrastructure support (electrical ventilation etc.) as well as optomechanical system design and building. (50%)

• Either extended APO work (with Ocotillo an optical spectrograph for the 3.5m telescope) or design work for upcoming projects (ultraviolet or optical designs and their support systems - electrical and mechanical) (25%)

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelors degree in a related field (Astronomy Physics Mechanical Engineering Optical Engineering)

• 2 years of relevant experience included industry work in optical or mechanical design as well as work at an astronomical observatory in a technical capacity.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Fluency with Unix systems and at least one programming language

• Fluency with at least one CAD program (Solidworks Autocad etc)

• Ability to solve technical problems independently and creatively.

• Ability to speak and write effectively including the writing of technical proposals and reports.

• Ability to communicate and cooperate with others

• Familiarity with systems engineering approaches project scheduling and budgeting.

Equivalent education/experience will substitute for all minimum qualifications.

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Familiarity with astronomical observations.

• Electrical Engineering experience with low-level controllers embedded systems programmable logic controllers etc.

• Familiarity with Zemax or other optical design toolsFamiliarity with data tools and methods.

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT:

• The successful candidate must be willing to regularly travel to meetings reviews and conferences related to their work. During these meetings the candidate must be capable of presenting and discussing their work in a professional setting.

• The successful candidate must be willing to travel occasionally to Apache Point Observatory (NM). These sites are both at high altitude and the position requires the ability to do moderate physical work at these sites.

Compensation Benefits and Position Details

Pay Range Minimum:

Pay Range Maximum:

Other Compensation:

Benefits:

Temporary or Regular

FTE (Full-Time Equivalent):

Union/Bargaining Unit:

About the UW

Working at the University of Washington provides a unique opportunity to change lives on our campuses in our state and around the world.

UW employees bring their boundless energy creative problem-solving skills and dedication to building stronger minds and a healthier return they enjoy outstanding benefits opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work in an environment known for its diversity intellectual excitement artistic pursuits and natural beauty.

Our Commitment

The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race color creed religion national origin citizenship sex pregnancy age marital status sexual orientation gender identity or expression genetic information disability or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81.

To request disability accommodation in the application process contact the Disability Services Office at or .

Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law.