Hobby-Eberly Telescope Optomechanical Engineer (McDonald Observatory, West Texas)

Job Description:

Responsible for maintaining all optics on the Hobby-Eberly Telescope and manage all activities in the HET optic lab including maintaining the reflectivity of the primary mirror segments, operating and maintaining the mirror coating facility and serve as the supervisor for the HET optics team. This position works closely with colleagues at the HET and in Austin to design, build and maintain optomechanical tools and instrumentation as needed for the efficient operation of the HET.

----

Job Details:

General Notes

This position is located at McDonald Observatory, 16 miles from Fort Davis, Texas (440 miles away from the UT Austin campus). The Hobby-Eberly Telescope (HET) is a 24/7 operation and you may be expected to work at all hours of the day or night, weekends, or holidays (when needed and within limits) to serve the scientifically needs of the Observatory and specifically the HET. Residence in the Observatory's residential community may be available and may be required. Position may be subject to “call-back” as an essential employee for emergency or critical response. Must be eligible to work in the US on a full-time basis for any employer without sponsorship.

Responsibilities

• Operates and maintains the 15kW, 10,000V, E-Beam mirror coating system to coat 1-meter hexagonal mirror segments with aluminum, Including all vacuum equipment, ion assisted vapor deposition system, and optical coating metrology instrumentation. Operates and maintains the class 10,000 clean room housing the mirror coating facility and the Strip and Wash (SAW) room where the 1-meter segments have old coating removed and are prepped for the new coating.
• Maintains all optics and optomechanical subsystems on the HET with emphasis on the reflectivity of the HET primary mirror segments, the overall optical throughput of the telescope, the performance of the primary mirror Segment Control System (SCS), the primary mirror Segment Alignment Measurement System (SAMS) and the Center of Curvature Alignment System (CCAS).
• Leads or participates in projects to improve the performance of the telescope from a mechanical and/or optomechanical perspective. Such projects may include both optical and mechanical design from first principles to an operational instrument, tool, or fixture.
• Investigates and solves telescope failures or performance deficiencies related to optomechanical and electro-optical subsystems on the telescope.
  Supervise the HET Optics Team to define and schedule all team activities in cooperation with the team members and HET Operations Management. Participates or leads weekly, or as needed, meetings and/or work sessions.

Required Qualifications

• Master’s Degree in mechanical or optical engineering with minimum of two years experience or Bachelor's degree in mechanical or optical engineering and four years of related experience, preferably in an optomechanical design role or in the optical coating industry with experience as a team lead or in a supervisory role.
• Understanding of system level interactions between optics, electronics, software and mechanical parts to enable effective problem solving at the system level down to the individual part level.
• Understanding of optical component cleaning and handling procedures.
• Experience in one or more of the following fields of optomechanical engineering: 1. Optical coating processes, more specifically ion assisted electron beam vapor deposition, and the process control requirements that lead to optimal coating performance in terms of reflectivity and durability; 2. Vacuum system operation and maintenance for optical coating processes; 3. Mechanical and optomechanical design using Solid Works and/or Inventor; 4. Basic optical design and some exposure to optical design/simulation tools such as ZEMAX and/or optical system performance measurement; or 5. Optical component mounting, interfaces and adhesive bonding.
• Basic machining skills using machine tools such material cutting, drilling, milling and turning.
• Self-driven individual with keen technical ability, systematic approach, detailed-oriented, excellent problem-solving skills, positive attitude, strong work ethic, and strong team player.
• Demonstrated problem solving ability through design of experiments and carry out tests to collect and analyze data. Has excellent technical writing and documentation skills.
• Experience in statistical process control (SPC) is a plus.
• Passion for hands-on problem solving.
• Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills and the ability to interface with all levels of staff and leadership. Supervise and develop junior staff members.
• Relevant education and experience may be substituted as appropriate.
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s Degree in mechanical or optical engineering with more than two years experience or Bachelor's degree in mechanical or optical engineering with more than four years of related experience, preferably in an optomechanical design role or in the optical coating industry, including one plus years experience as a team lead or in a supervisory role.
• Proficient in optical coating processes, more specifically ion assisted electron beam vapor deposition, and the process control requirements that lead to optimal coating performance in terms of reflectivity and durability.
• Proficient in vacuum system operation and maintenance for optical coating processes.
• Proficient in mechanical and optomechanical design using Solid Works and/or Inventor.
• Familiar with basic optical design and some proficiency in the use of optical design/simulation tools such as ZEMAX and the ability to communicate effectively with optical designers on optical design and performance measurement.
• Hands on experience in optical component mounting, interfaces and adhesive bonding.
• Practical programming experience (Python, MATLAB or equivalent) for advanced optics and optical coating modelling, design and data analysis.

Salary Range

$80,000 + depending on qualifications

Driving Required

• This job requires a class "C" operator's driver's license. The applicant selected must provide a current three year driving record from the current state of residence. If not currently a Texas resident, a Texas driver's license must be obtained within 30 days of becoming a Texas resident.

Working Conditions

• Use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including safety harnesses, hard hats, breathing respirators, and ear and eye protection.
• Personal protection equipment (furnished) required during mirror stripping and working with chemicals.
• May work in all weather conditions and extreme temperatures.
• May work around chemical and chemical fumes while stripping and washing optics, wearing PPE.
• May work around electrical and mechanical hazards.
• Use of manual, mechanical hand-tool, and fine-motor dexterity.
• Climbing and working at heights up to 100 feet, using man lift, rope, or ladder.
• Climbing up to three flights of stairs at a time.
• Lifting and moving up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to move around in a mirror truss, a lattice shell structure.
• May work around standard office conditions.
• Repetitive use of a keyboard at a workstation.
• May require working extended hours in inclement weather with hazardous equipment or materials.

Work Shift

• Generally, M-F, 8 am – 5 pm
• Hobby-Eberly Telescope (HET) is a 24/7/365 operation and this position may be expected to work at all hours of the day or night, weekends, or holidays (when needed and within limits) to serve the needs of the Observatory and specifically the HET.
• Staff living on-site in the residential community are considered as essential employees, as determined by the HET Facility Manager and the Observatory Superintendent, and will be required to serve in the Observatory Emergency Response team.

Required Materials

• Resume/CV
• 3 work references with their contact information; at least one reference should be from a supervisor
• Letter of interest

Additional information and to apply:

 https://utaustin.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/UTstaff/job/MCDONALD-OBSERVATORY/HET-Optomechanical-Engineer_R_00010826

Administrative Manager (UT Austin)

Job Description:

Provides administrative and financial support services to staff, faculty, and students of a large research facility and department. Assist the assistant director with various complex administrative matters using a high degree of initiative and good judgment. Ensures operational success by coordinating workflow with the administrative team and promoting efficient business practices for the department.

----

Job Details:

General Notes

Initially, work may be remote due to COVID-19 guidelines and will shift back to the workplace in Summer 2021. Interested candidates must have reliable internet access and a suitable workspace free from distractions.

Responsibilities

• Serves as the primary human resources (HR) and payroll contact for McDonald Observatory and Astronomy Department. Uses informed independent judgment, discretion, and knowledge of human resources best practices and laws to confirm compliance, including with University policies, rules, and regulations. Creates and maintains appointments for faculty, staff, affiliates, and students. Processes on-boarding and off-boarding documentation, including offer letters, background checks, I-9s, visas, and terminations. Processes allowances such as relocations and supplements. Works closely with faculty and students to process scholarships, fellowships, awards, and summer salaries. Researches questions, presents recommendations and resolves issues. Supports HR personnel at McDonald Observatory West Texas to ensure accurate and efficient execution of HR matters.
• Ensures compliance and consistency across units with the policies and procedures of the University, regulatory agencies, and laws. Ensures confidentiality of various employee documents and files. Maintains and secures personnel records.
• Manage training programs with the assistant director, including conducting needs assessments, providing business-related training including human resources, and scheduling other campus units to provide business and human resource training.
• Serves as office manager and collaborates with the administrative staff to optimize business processes. Works closely with the travel coordinator and approves travel documents. Backs up procurement, inventory, accounts payable/receivable, and financial reporting as required. Serves as the department's contact for WCI and DPUSER; DUC (DocuSign Unit Contact) and authorization of users; records retention and coordinates the disposal of official documents; and key and prox card access (BACS). Maintains the drivers' record system by verifying department staff’s eligibility. Reports maintenance and facility issues, coordinates emergency and evacuation planning, and assists in tracking departmental space use as needed.
• Assist Assistant Director in long-range planning and meeting departmental goals for excellence. May represent assistant director in their absence, as needed. Liaises between the dean’s office and other various university offices and departments and communicates new policy changes, guidelines, processes, information, and issues as relevant. Generate reports and provides data, schedule meetings, maintain records, and provide other assistance as needed.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree and five years of responsible level experience in program management including human resources and payroll functions in an academic environment, or Master's degree and three years of experience.
• Knowledge of best practices and laws relating to human resource functions and records management.
• Proven ability to prioritize responsibilities and manage concurrent projects, while maintaining a high level of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Effective communicator with excellent oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Skilled at anticipating changing priorities, being a self-starter and highly collaborative, working in changing environments, providing strong customer service skills, and responding well to feedback.
• Ability to think strategically, creatively, and problem solve.
• Demonstrated ability to work well with a team, under pressure, and to meet deadlines.
• Ability to address individuals and information with a high degree of sensitivity and confidentiality.
• Demonstrates an exceptional professional demeanor and integrity.
• High level of proficiency with Microsoft Office programs and data.
• Ability to keep a regular dependable work schedule.
• Ability to foster and maintain a positive team-oriented environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in higher education administration and familiar with faculty and student employment and student non-employment funding.
• General knowledge of budgeting and fringe calculations.
• Experience with employee relations and conflict management.
• Experience providing training.
• Experience with *DEFINE, Workday business processes, FRMS, UTBox, request for travel authorizations/reimbursements, procurement/inventory processes, and accounts payable/receivable.
• Familiarity with UT policies and procedures.

Salary Range

$58,000 + depending on qualifications

Working Conditions

• May work around standard office conditions
• Repetitive use of a keyboard at a workstation
• Use of manual dexterity
• Lifting and moving
• May require additional hours during peak times, after hours, and travel for events. 

Required Materials

• Resume/CV
• 3 work references with their contact information; at least one reference should be from a supervisor
• Letter of interest

Additional information and to apply:

https://utaustin.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/UTstaff/job/UT-MAIN-CAMPUS/Administrative-Manager_R_00013261

Mechanic/Technician (McDonald Observatory, West Texas)

Job Description:

The purpose of this position is to provide journey-level skills and to perform work in a variety of technical trades in the maintenance, repair, fabrication, and operations for a remote research facility, including performing skilled work in an electrical, mechanical, and HVAC environment.

----

Job Details:

General Notes

This position is based at McDonald Observatory, 16 miles from Ft. Davis, Texas, and approximately 440 miles from the University of Texas at Austin campus. Our location is approximately 6900 feet above sea level. Environmental conditions can be unpredictable; temperatures can range from -10˚F and +85˚F. Inclement winter weather can be expected which requires comfort driving in winter conditions on mountain grade roads. Hours include occasional weekends and evenings. Travel required. Position may be subject to "call-back" as an essential employee for emergencies or critical response. On-site residential housing may be available.

Responsibilities

• Performs preventive and general maintenance, inspection, repair, and testing of mechanical and hydraulic equipment, vehicles, heavy equipment, and rotating telescope domes and infrastructures. Responsible for ensuring that routine maintenance of fleet vehicles is performed and appropriate record-keeping is up to date.
• Maintains and repairs automotive, truck, and diesel equipment.
• Assists with welding of mild steel, stainless, aluminum, as well as torch welding, cutting, and brazing on various mechanical equipment and structures. Assists with fabrication and precision machining of metal parts and equipment using metal lathes, milling machines, drill presses. Ability to interpret three-dimensional assemblies from two-dimensional drawings, knowledge of material properties.
• Assists with carpentry and general residential maintenance, including but not limited to concrete work, structure repair, drywall, painting, appliance servicing, and plumbing.
• Performs preventative maintenance tasks incidental to the operation of mechanical and electrical equipment and systems as well as residential structures. Maintain logs and records on equipment. Inspects, lubricates, and troubleshoots equipment. Informs supervisor of conditions.
• Troubleshooting, repair, and maintenance on commercial facilities electrical and HVAC systems, residential structures, elevators, and telescope enclosure buildings.
• Operates heavy equipment: backhoe, dozier, forklift, and road grader.
• Helps co-workers as necessary in their various craft trades in a team-oriented environment.
• Performs emergency services duties as assigned including fire department participation, response, training, and related activities.
• Maintains a clean and safe workplace and performs all duties in accordance with established safety procedures. Ensures that all tools, equipment, and vehicles are maintained in a clean and orderly fashion. Performs additional tasks as assigned.

Required Qualifications

High school graduation or GED. Five years of experience in commercial and/or residential electrical and HVAC systems, and maintenance and repair of vehicles or facilities and equipment. Three years of journey-level experience in facilities/residential electrical and HVAC, general construction, welding, or machine shop fabrication. Assists in assuming responsibility for the research facilities' maintenance, serves as an efficient and caring worker, and demonstrates strong attention to detail. Good organization and planning skills. Maintains professionalism in our interaction with the public and our fellow workers, as well as professionalism in our appearance, according to UT policy. Wears protective safety equipment and follows safety guidelines or procedures.

Relevant education and experience may be substituted as appropriate.

Preferred Qualifications

Journeyman's license in electrical, significant experience in the installation and troubleshooting electrical systems, installation, troubleshooting, and repair of HVAC systems. Experience in troubleshooting and repairing elevator and other hydraulic lift systems.

Driving Required

This job requires a class "C" operator's driver's license. The applicant selected must provide a current three-year driving record from the current state of residence. If not currently a Texas resident, a Texas driver's license must be obtained within 30 days of becoming a Texas resident.

Salary Range

$40,000 + depending on qualifications

Working Conditions

• Uniforms and/or personal protection equipment (furnished)
• May work in all weather conditions
• May work in extreme temperatures
• May work around chemical fumes
• May work around standard office conditions
• May work around bio-hazards
• May work around hazardous chemicals and cryogenic liquids
• May work around electrical and mechanical hazards
• Repetitive use of a keyboard at a workstation and use of a computer
• Use of manual dexterity
• Climbing of stairs
• Climbing of ladders, free climbing on/around heavy equipment
• Heavy lifting and moving
• Working with heavy machinery
• Staff on-site in the residential community may serve as essential employee as determined by your manager.
• Use of approved safety equipment is required.
• May be required to undergo respirator fit testing.

Work Shift

• Tuesday-Friday (7:00 am - 5:30 pm; 30-minute lunch)
• Weekend and evenings hours as required
• Daytime travel and occasional overnight travel

Required Materials

• Resume/CV
• 3 work references with their contact information; at least one reference should be from a supervisor
• Letter of interest

Additional information and to apply:

https://utaustin.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/UTstaff/job/MCDONALD-OBSERVATORY/Mechanic-Technician_R_00014257

Optomechanical Engineering Associate, Observing Support (McDonald Observatory, West Texas)

Job Description:

The Optomechanical Engineering Associate provides hands-on mechanical and technical support for McDonald Observatory and tenant telescope facilities including performing instrument changes, instrument set-up, cleaning optical surfaces, recoating of astronomical optics, and assistance with machining and design.

----

Job Details:

General Notes

This position is at McDonald Observatory, located 16 miles from Fort Davis, Texas (440 miles away from the UT Austin campus). Residence in the Observatory's residential community is preferred. Position is considered an essential employee for emergency or critical response.

Responsibilities

• Facility Support: Performs maintenance and repair for the 107-inch Harlan J. Smith Telescope, the historic 82-inch Otto Struve Telescope, and the 30- and 36-inch facilities. Assists with upgrades and modifications as directed. Assists with machining and design as directed.
• Instrument Support: Performs maintenance and repair for McDonald Observatory astronomical instruments under the guidance of the Optomechanical Group Lead.
• Tenant Support: Performs maintenance and repair on the tenant facilities that are supported by the McDonald Observatory team at the direction of the Observing Support (OS) Manager and the Optomechanical Group Lead.
• Operations Support: Assists in all general operational tasks including instrument changes, optical cleaning, optical recoating, and telescope assembly. Provides technical support for observing in the form of reviewing night logs, re-filling cryogens, changing filters, etc. Leads operation support efforts and supervises the 107-inch machine shop in the absence of the group lead.
• Documentation: Assists with quality control checks and upgrades to operational and maintenance documentation.
• Performs other duties as required. 

Required Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Optical Engineering, or a related field with up to two years experience in an astronomical research or optical lab environment. Familiarity with optical coating processes. Experience with precision equipment used in research programs. Ability to organize and prioritize work, to meet deadlines and expectations. Self-driven individual with keen technical ability, systematic and detail-oriented approach. Positive attitude, strong work ethic, and strong team player. Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills. Ability to communicate with a variety of audiences including science users, engineers, educators, nighttime staff, and administrative staff. Proficient computer skills. Desire and ability to learn new skills or methods.

An equivalent combination of relevant education and experience may be substituted as appropriate.

Preferred Qualifications

Familiarity with astronomical instrumentation. Familiarity with optical and/or near-IR detectors.

Experience in one or more of the following areas:

• Care of optics
• Optical alignments
• Stray light analysis and control
• Optical mountings
• Optical coatings, including thin films

Driving Required

This job requires a class "C" operator's driver's license to perform job responsibilities. The applicant selected must provide a current three-year driving record from the current state of residence. If not currently a Texas resident, a Texas driver's license must be obtained within 30 days of becoming a Texas resident.

Salary Range

$55,000 + depending on qualifications

Working Conditions

• McDonald Observatory is located at approx. 6900 ft. above sea level. 
• Environmental conditions can be unpredictable; temperatures can range from -10˚F and +85˚F. 
• Inclement winter weather can be expected which requires comfort driving in wintery conditions on mountain grades
• Climbing ladders, free climbing on/around heavy equipment
• Working in/from man-lifts and scissor lifts
• Use of approved safety equipment is required; May be required to undergo respirator fit testing
• Heavy lifting (must be able to lift 35 lbs.)
• Working at night, on weekends, and holidays
• Working with hazardous chemicals and cryogenic liquids
• Working with heavy machinery
• Working at a computer

Required Materials

• Resume/CV
• 3 work references with their contact information; at least one reference should be from a supervisor
• Letter of interest

Additional information and to apply:

https://utaustin.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/UTstaff/job/MCDONALD-OBSERVATORY/Optomechanical-Engineering-Associate--Observing-Support_R_00014344

Optomechanical Technician, Observing Support (McDonald Observatory, West Texas)

Job Description:

Provides entry-level optomechanical engineering assignments for Observing Support. Performs hands-on mechanical and technical support for McDonald Observatory and tenant telescope facilities including instrument changes, instrument set-up, cleaning optical surfaces, and recoating of astronomical optics.

----

Job Details:

General Notes

This position is at McDonald Observatory, located 16 miles from Fort Davis, Texas (440 miles away from the UT Austin campus). Residence in the Observatory's residential community is preferred. Position is considered an essential employee for emergency or critical response.

Responsibilities

• Facility Support: Performs maintenance and repair for the 107-inch Harlan J. Smith Telescope, the historic 82-inch Otto Struve Telescope, and the 30- and 36-inch facilities under the guidance of the Optomechanical Group Lead and Optomechanical Engineering Associate. May assist with upgrades and modifications as directed.
• Instrument Support: Performs maintenance and repair for McDonald Observatory astronomical instruments under the guidance of the Optomechanical Group Lead and Optomechanical Engineering Associate.
• Tennant Support: Assists with maintenance and repair on the tenant facilities that are supported by the McDonald Observatory team at the direction of the Observing Support (OS) Manager and the Optomechanical Group Lead.
• Operations Support: Assists in all general operational support tasks including instrument changes, optical cleaning, optical recoating, and telescope assembly. Provides technical support for observing in the form of reviewing night logs, re-filling cryogens, changing filters, etc.
• Performs other duties as required. 

Required Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Optical Engineering, or a related field. Basic engineering and/or scientific equipment ordinarily used in college laboratory work. Ability to organize and prioritize work, to meet deadlines and expectations. Self-driven individual with keen technical ability, systematic and detail-oriented approach. Positive attitude, strong work ethic, and strong team player. Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills. Proficient computer skills. Desire and ability to learn new skills or methods.

An equivalent combination of relevant education and experience may be substituted as appropriate.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with precision equipment used in research programs. Familiarity with optical coating processes. Familiarity with astronomical instrumentation.

Driving Required

This job requires a class "C" operator's driver's license to perform job responsibilities. The applicant selected must provide a current three-year driving record from the current state of residence. If not currently a Texas resident, a Texas driver's license must be obtained within 30 days of becoming a Texas resident.

Salary Range

$38,000 + depending on qualifications

Working Conditions

• McDonald Observatory is located at approx. 6900 ft. above sea level. 
• Environmental conditions can be unpredictable; temperatures can range from -10˚F and +85˚F. 
• Inclement winter weather can be expected which requires comfort driving in wintery conditions on mountain grades
• Climbing ladders, free climbing on/around heavy equipment
• Working in/from man-lifts and scissor lifts
• Use of approved safety equipment is required; May be required to undergo respirator fit testing
• Heavy lifting (must be able to lift 35 lbs.)
• Working at night, on weekends, and holidays
• Working with hazardous chemicals and cryogenic liquids
• Working with heavy machinery
• Working at a computer

Required Materials

• Resume/CV
• 3 work references with their contact information; at least one reference should be from a supervisor
• Letter of interest

Additional information and to apply:

https://utaustin.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/UTstaff/job/MCDONALD-OBSERVATORY/Optomechanical-Technician--Observing-Support_R_00014342