General Notes

The McDonald Observatory is a major astronomical research observatory located 16 miles from Fort Davis, Texas (440 miles from the UT Austin campus). This position is on the UT Austin campus and will require occasional travel to the observatory.

We are seeking a collaborative, dedicated, and curious software engineer to join the observatory. The engineering work for this position will apply to various disciplines, including mechanical, electronic, and software engineering, and used together to build and/or maintain state-of-the-art research instrumentation for astronomy. The research with those instruments includes the discovery and characterization of exoplanets, understanding how the elements and their various isotopes were formed, understanding how the successive generations of stars have changed the chemical composition of the universe, understanding the mechanisms that change the galaxies with time, and understanding the history of the expansion of the universe itself.

Purpose

To manage, design, develop, direct, and perform advanced professional level applied software engineering in support of the goals of the McDonald Observatory, including engineering of real-time control and data acquisition systems for a wide variety of scientific instruments developed and built for astronomical research. Integrates and tests the software in the lab, and then deploys and debugs the software at the telescope.

Responsibilities

• Serves as a designer, lead programmer, and maintainer of software systems to control astronomical instruments developed and built at McDonald Observatory and the Department of Astronomy for use by scientists in astronomical research, and for the telescope control systems for McDonald Observatory telescopes as part of upgrade programs and new instrument deployments. Will participate in software development related to the Giant Magellan Telescope. Examples include image readout from CCD and CMOS imaging devices and storage of said images; motion control of optomechanical components; telescope positioning and real-time feedback-guided motion control; and instrument and telescope user interfaces and metrology displays.
• Coordinates with project and systems scientists to ensure control system and instrumentation software meet scientific requirements and project goals; studies the existing architecture for the real-time telescope and instrument control systems, extends the existing software interfaces, and defines any missing interfaces, including implementation to evolving requirements where required. Researches existing and new applicable technologies and algorithms to adapt system design.
• Interfaces with day and night staff at the Observatory in West Texas in support of deployed software packages, to react to problem and bug reports, and to act accordingly to resolve issues to ensure efficient science operations.
• Attends meetings and delivers status reports as necessary. Works directly and collaboratively with project scientists, engineers, and computing staff. Updates the content of both internal and external documentation archives, notifies users and staff of software changes in production packages, and retains backup copies and version archives of software products. Performs other related duties as required to meet business needs.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in computer and information science, or other related STEM fields.
• Three years of experience in systems design, analysis, and programming.
• Demonstrated knowledge of C/C++ and Python software development (design, coding, debugging, integration, and testing) in a GNU/Linux environment with a focus on the software-interface portions of electromechanical device control systems.
• Ability to serve as architect and lead programmer on complex and challenging software development projects.
• Understanding of plane and spherical trigonometry and calculus.
• Ability and willingness to learn and absorb new concepts.
• Experience with distributed version control systems such as git.
• Ability to work independently and as an integral member of a project team on complex and challenging software development projects.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with both non-technical and technical users.
• Relevant education and experience may be substituted as appropriate.

Preferred Qualifications

• Four years of recent, cumulative experience in the authoring of control system software for computer-controlled mechanical systems, including all aspects of the software product from the authoring of low-level hardware/software interface code (device drivers and digital IO) through end-user GUI development.
• Experience with troubleshooting motion control systems and associated electronics. Familiarity with mechanical systems and process control concepts, programmable logic devices (PLDs, CPLDs, FPGAs), stepper motors and encoders, computer hardware and communications protocols, and operating systems.
• Demonstrated ability to handle complex mathematical/statistical concepts and author software that applies these concepts.
• Experience developing high-concurrency systems and real-time systems.
• Understanding of astronomical telescopes and instruments.

Salary Range

$80,000 + depending on qualifications and experience

Working Conditions

• Working at a computer, including repetitive keyboard use at a workstation.
• Use of manual dexterity.
• Climbing of stairs and ladders.
• May include free climbing on and around heavy equipment at and above ground level.
• Heavy lifting and moving (must be able to lift 35 lbs.).
• Working in potentially hazardous chemicals, cryogenic liquids, and chemical fumes environments.
• May work around electrical and mechanical hazards.
• May require working extended hours in inclement weather with hazardous equipment or materials.
• Use of approved safety equipment is required, including climbing safety equipment. May be required to undergo respirator fit testing and periodic training for the use of safety equipment.
• May require occasional extended work hours or on-call obligations.
• Occasional work at the McDonald Observatory in West Texas for up to two weeks, working days and/or nights, supporting instrument deployment and maintenance.
• McDonald Observatory is located approximately 6800 feet above sea level. Environmental conditions can be unpredictable, and temperatures can range from -10˚F and +95˚F. Inclement winter weather can be expected, which requires being comfortable driving in wintry conditions on mountain grades.
• Applicants must be legally authorized to work for any employer in the United States. This position is not eligible for sponsorship of work visas.

Work Shift

• Generally, M-F, 8 am – 5 pm. Flexibility is essential, given that the telescopes operate 24/7/365.
• Occasional extended work hours including night time, weekend, and holiday hours
• Ability to travel to the Observatory.
• Required to respond to problems outside regular business hours.

Required Materials

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

Additional information and to apply: Senior Software Engineer, McDonald Observatory.

General Notes

This position is for a mechanical engineer at the McDonald Observatory, Hobby-Eberly Telescope (HET), which operates on a 24/7 schedule. The Observatory is a major astronomical research observatory located 16 miles from Fort Davis, Texas (440 miles from the UT Austin campus).

The engineering work from this position will apply to a wide range of disciplines, including mechanical, optical, electronic, vacuum, cryogenic, and software engineering, used together to build state-of-the-art research instrumentation for astronomy. The research with those instruments includes the discovery and characterization of exoplanets, understanding how the elements and their various isotopes were formed, understanding how the successive generations of stars have changed the chemical composition of the universe, understanding the mechanisms that alter the galaxies with time, and understanding the history of the expansion of the universe itself.

Purpose

This position leads a small team of technicians and performs mechanical engineering maintenance, design, and performance improvements on the Hobby-Eberly Telescope’s (HET) equipment and facility infrastructure. This position reports to the HET Facility Manager at McDonald Observatory.

Responsibilities

• Engineering.  Designs, models, analyzes, troubleshoots, fabricates, assembles, tests, and supports new and existing mechanical equipment on the telescope and facility infrastructure.
• Operations and Supervision. Leads a small team of technicians in a technical leadership and mentoring role, emphasizing operating and maintaining the HET telescope.
• Preventative Maintenance. Coordinate the effort to develop, implement and conduct a professional preventive maintenance program on HET systems.
• Project Management. Works with the Facility Manager and other HET group managers to establish priorities and schedules for the maintenance and repair of existing equipment and the design, upgrade, and deployment of existing and new systems.
• Team Coordination and Backup. Coordinates the mechanical engineering efforts internal to the HET and with Austin staff and other staff on the Observatory site. Periodically performs operations engineering and day engineering duties.
• Respond to Problems. Respond to problems on the telescope during the daytime, after hours, and over weekends.
• Planning Meetings. Attend and constructively participate in the morning planning meetings, weekly HET staff meetings, weekly mechanical team meetings, periodic technical and/or design review meetings, and other meetings as needed for an efficient and productive operation.
• Other Duties. Performs other duties as required to meet the business needs. Serves as an essential employee, and acts as a member of the McDonald Observatory’s Emergency Response Team (ERT), responds to fire, medical, hazardous material, or other emergencies that threaten or interfere with the facility’s normal operations.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering or field related to the work to be performed and at least six (6) years of related experience, or a master’s degree in a field related to the work to be performed and at least four (4) years of related experience.
• Experience with engineering and/or scientific equipment ordinarily used in a lab setting on mechanical, optical, and electronic assemblies used in research.
• Experience and knowledge of engineering and scientific methods in instrumentation-based research, design, assembly, and commissioning of precision instrumentation.
• Experience using or designing specialized research equipment as required by the research project.
• Proficient in using 3D CAD software, Solid Works (preferred), or Inventor. Proficiency with AutoCAD will be considered.
• Strong verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Effective organizational skills.
• Ability to be adaptable, work independently, and as an integral project team member.
• Demonstrable good judgment.
• Relevant education and experience may be substituted as appropriate.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering with six years’ work experience in a related field, or bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering with eight years of experience in a related field.
• Additional experience handling, assembling, and troubleshooting astronomical instrumentation in a lab setting and at telescopes.
• Expert (power user) in 3D CAD software, Solid Works (preferred) and/or Inventor.
• Knowledgeable and experienced in opto-mechanical design.
• Experience assembling and handling precision optical components.
• Demonstrate the ability to learn new disciplines outside of those learned during formal education.
• Familiarity with the electronic systems used in instrumentation and motion control systems.
• Experience with vacuum and cryogenic systems.
• Project management training and/or experience.

Salary Range

$80,000 + depending on qualifications and experience

Working Conditions

• Since we are a 24/7 operation, this position, on occasion, is expected to respond to problems and business needs relating to the telescope outside of regular work hours (nights, weekends, and holidays) to serve the needs of the Observatory and, specifically, the HET.
• Residence in the Observatory’s residential community may be available and required.
• The position may be subject to “call-back” as an essential emergency or critical response employee.
• Must be eligible to work in the US full-time for any employer without sponsorship.
• Working at a computer, including repetitive keyboard use at a workstation.
• Use of manual dexterity.
• Climbing of stairs and ladders up to 90 ft.
• Working at height above ground using man lifts to 150 ft.
• Free climbing on and around heavy equipment at and above ground level.
• Heavy lifting and moving (must be able to lift 35 lbs.).
• Working in potentially hazardous chemicals, cryogenic liquids, and chemical fumes environments.
• May work around electrical and mechanical hazards.
• May require working extended hours in inclement weather with hazardous equipment or materials.
• Use of approved safety equipment is required, including climbing safety equipment. May be required to undergo respirator fit testing and periodic training for the use of safety equipment.
• Acts as a senior member of the Observatory’s Emergency Response Team that responds to fire, medical, hazardous material, or other emergencies threatening or interfering with the facility’s normal operations. Handles emergencies calmly and quickly.
• Staff on-site in the residential community may serve as essential employees as determined by your manager.
• McDonald Observatory is located approximately 6800 feet above sea level. Environmental conditions can be unpredictable, and temperatures can range from -10˚F and +95˚F. Inclement winter weather can be expected, which requires being comfortable driving in wintry conditions on mountain grades.

Work Shift

• Generally, M-F, 8 am – 5 pm. Flexibility is essential, given that we operate 24/7/365.
• Ability to travel to the University of Texas at Austin, the Observatory’s headquarters, as required for reviews or work forums.
• You are required to respond to problems outside regular business hours.

Required Materials

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

Additional information and to apply: HET Mechanical Engineer, McDonald Observatory.

General Notes

The McDonald Observatory is a major astronomical research observatory located 16 miles from Fort Davis, Texas (440 miles from the UT Austin campus). This position is located at the Observatory and requires working at night, from sunset to sunrise, throughout the year. The position reports to the observing support manager, with input and guidance from the assistant director for research, the chief scientist, and the superintendent.

Purpose

The Night Operations Supervisor works in the Observing Support (OS) team and leads a small team of remote observing assistants (ROA) that assists our astronomical users with the Mt. Locke telescopes at McDonald Observatory safely and efficiently. Most of the work will be from sunset to sunrise in front of a computer console, including administrative duties supporting the remote observing program.

Responsibilities

• Nighttime Operations. Provides first-night training to new users of Mt. Locke facilities. Conducts remote observing operations, typical of the remote operations assistant (ROA) team, in collaboration with the astronomical observer. Works within the observing support (OS) team to respond to nighttime emergencies and queries, responding to the observer and remote assistant nighttime problems and providing troubleshooting assistance as needed.
• Documentation. Creates and maintains telescope user documents for ROAs and observers. Supports facility improvement projects as directed. Provides feedback to the ROA team and science users on operational concerns and restrictions. Provides reports on common observing problems or efficiency issues to engineering teams.
• Supervision. Supervises the ROA team. Responsibilities include recruiting, training, scheduling, approving time, and other supervisory duties. Identifies professional development opportunities for the ROA team members and facilitates opportunities under the guidance of the OS manager.
• Daytime Operations. Under the direction of the OS Manager, provides support, and staff support, for daytime operations. May train daytime staff on regular telescope operational techniques. May perform tasks typical of the daytime support team (i.e., filling cryogens, assisting with instrument set-up, etc.). Attends regular OS staff meetings and supports Observatory tours and events as directed.
• Additional Duties. Performs other duties as assigned to meet business needs.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Astronomy or a related field and at least two years of experience with operations in an astronomical research facility. 
• Experience in a large research-oriented environment.  Experience with astronomical observing, including visual or instrument-based techniques. Demonstrable familiarity with positional astronomy.
• Effective interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills.  Ability to communicate with various audiences, including science users, engineers, educators, and nighttime and administrative staff.
• Ability to organize and prioritize work to meet deadlines and expectations. Demonstrates accuracy and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently in a complex technical environment during overnight observing operations, and use critical thinking and problem-solving skills to make appropriate decisions regarding the safety of the telescope facility.
• Self-driven individual with keen technical ability, and a systematic and detail-oriented approach.
• Demonstrates service excellence, including a positive attitude, strong work ethic, and working productively with diverse and small teams.
• Excellent computer literacy skills, including using Linux and/or UNIX operating systems, and experience with a scientific programming language and/or shell scripting.  Python and Pyraf experience preferred.
• Initiative and desire to learn new skills or methods.
• Follows prescribed safety policies, rules, and procedures.​
• Must be able to work for any U.S. employer.

• Relevant education and experience may be substituted as appropriate.

Preferred Qualifications

Master's degree in a related field. Experience in one or more of the following areas:

• Familiarity with astronomical instrumentation.
• Demonstrated ability to utilize procedural documentation, checklists, etc.
• Familiarity with professional astronomical software, including data reduction tools, and telescope and/or instrument controls.
• Familiarity with optical detectors

• Project management training and/or experience.

Driving Required

This job requires a class "C" operator's driver's license. The applicant must provide a 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

$50,000 + depending on qualifications and experience

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, requiring comfortable driving on mountain grades in wintery conditions.
• Driving during twilight and darkness, on mountainous roads, and in various weather conditions is required.
• May work in all extreme weather conditions, including cold dark conditions.
• May work around electrical and mechanical hazards​ including hazardous chemicals and cryogenic liquids.
• Work at a computer and in standard office conditions with repetitive use of a keyboard at a workstation.
• Use of manual dexterity.
• Climbing stairs and ladders, and free climbing on/around heavy equipment.
• Heavy lifting and moving.
• Working in/from man-lifts and scissor lifts.
• Use of approved safety equipment is required. May be required to undergo respirator fit testing.

Work Shift

• Requires different shifts, and at night, weekends, and holidays.
• Requires nighttime work hours, sunset to sunrise.

Required Materials

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

Additional information and to apply: https://utaustin.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/UTstaff/job/MCDONALD-OBSERVATORY/Night-Operations-Supervisor--Mt-Locke-Telescopes_R_00025223-1.

General Notes

The McDonald Observatory is a major astronomical research observatory located 16 miles from Fort Davis, Texas (440 miles from the UT Austin campus). This position is located on the UT Austin campus and will require occasional travel to the observatory.

This position plays an important role in the development and forefront of scientific instrumentation for astronomy at the McDonald Observatory and other facilities around the world. The position works with the McDonald Observatory instrumentation group in the management of the laboratory space where instruments are assembled and tested, along with a wide range of tasks in electronics, optics, and mechanics, and in vacuum and cryogenics systems. Periods of time will be spent at the McDonald Observatory in west Texas during the delivery phase for new instruments. There will also be the opportunity to work with students in the lab setting.

Purpose

To perform and report results of engineering and/or scientific assignments related to astronomical instrumentation. To manage lab infrastructure in support of the instrumental goals of the Observatory. To organize undergraduate student effort in the lab environment and in the field.

Responsibilities

• Performs requirements analysis, engineering, design, fabrication, assembly, test, deployment, commissioning, and field support for astronomical instrumentation projects. Characterizes the performance of instrumentation in the lab setting. Acquires data in support of characterization.
• Designs, builds, modifies, and troubleshoots new and existing mechanical, electronic, optical, cryogenic, and vacuum equipment and instrumentation, used as part of the lab infrastructure. Maintains and expands understanding and knowledge of these systems.
• Helps to organize and conduct specific phases of research projects as designated by the principal investigators. Provides management of these activities.
• Directs, coordinates, or assists, according to assignment, in the assembly, deployment, commissioning, and field support of developed instrumentation and mechanical equipment.
• Assists with project management of major instrumentation projects to ensure the timely completion of various phases. Coordinates lab activities between different instrumentation projects. Performs other duties as required.
• Manages the labs and associated chemicals and equipment needed to fulfill the research objectives, university reporting requirements, and safety protocols. Supervises and trains lab personnel, including undergraduate research assistants, assigns daily tasks, mentors the students, and ensures they maintain compliance with university reporting and safety requirements.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in a field related to the work to be performed and at least four (4) years of related experience. Master's Degree in a field related to the work to be performed and at least two (2) years of related experience.
• Experience with engineering and/or scientific equipment ordinarily used in working in a lab setting on electronics, optics, and mechanical assemblies used in research.
• Experience with lab equipment used in astronomical instrumentation, including vacuum and cryogenic systems.
• Experience with custom electronics design, fabrication, and troubleshooting.
• Experience and knowledge of engineering and scientific methods in astronomical research, and design, assembly, and experimental testing of astronomical instrumentation.
• Experience using or designing specialized research equipment as required by the research project.
• Strong verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Excellent organizational skills.
• Ability to be adaptable, work independently, and as an integral member of a project team.
• Demonstrable good judgment.
• Relevant education and experience may be substituted as appropriate.

Preferred Qualifications

• Additional experience handling, assembling, and troubleshooting astronomical instrumentation in a lab setting and at telescopes.
• Experience assembling and handling precision optical components.
• Experience with vacuum and cryogenic systems.
• Experience supervising undergraduates in a lab setting.
• Project management training and/or experience.

Salary Range

$60,000 + depending on qualifications and experience

Working Conditions

• Climbing of stairs and ladders
• May include free climbing on/around heavy equipment
• Working in/from man-lifts and scissor lifts
• Heavy lifting and moving (must be able to lift 35lbs)
• Working with hazardous chemicals, cryogenic liquids, and chemical fumes
• May work around electrical and mechanical hazards
• Sometimes requires working extended hours in inclement weather with hazardous equipment or materials
• Working at a computer, repetitive use of a keyboard at a workstation
• Use of approved safety equipment is required.  May be required to undergo respirator fit testing.
• Occasional work at the McDonald Observatory in West Texas for up to two weeks at a time, working days and/or nights in support of instrument deployment and maintenance
• McDonald Observatory is located at approximately 6800 feet above sea level.  Environmental conditions can be unpredictable and temperatures can range from -10˚F and +85˚F.  Inclement winter weather can be expected which requires comfortable driving in wintry conditions on mountain grades.
• Applicants must be legally authorized to work for any employer in the United States. This position is not eligible for sponsorship of work visas.

Work Shift

• Generally, M-F, 8 am – 5 pm
• Occasional travel required to McDonald Observatory, 16 miles from Fort Davis, Texas (440 miles from the UT Austin campus)

Required Materials

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

Additional information and to apply: https://utaustin.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/UTstaff/job/UT-MAIN-CAMPUS/Sr-Laboratory-Technician--McDonald-Observatory_R_00025106.

Job Description

The Optomechanical Engineering Associate provides professional-level hands-on mechanical and technical support for all McDonald Observatory and tenant telescope facilities. Duties include performing instrument changes, instrument set-up, cleaning optical surfaces, recoating of astronomical optics, and assistance with machining and design. This position will report to the Observing Support Manager.

General Notes

The McDonald Observatory is an astronomical observatory located 16 miles from Fort Davis, Texas (440 miles away from the UT Austin campus). Residence in the Observatory's residential community may be available. The position is considered an essential employee for emergency or critical response in the absence of other team members.

Responsibilities

• 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. Leads operation support efforts and supervises the 107-inch machine shop in the absence of the group lead. 
• 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 as directed with upgrades and modifications, and machining and design projects.
• Las Cumbres Observatory (LCO) Global Telescope Support: Performs maintenance and repair on the LCO tenant facility under the supervision of the Observing Support (OS) Manager and works closely with the LCO engineering team.
• Instrument Support: Performs maintenance and repair of McDonald Observatory astronomical instruments under the guidance of the Optomechanical 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 in a field related to the work to be performed and at least two (2) years of related experience.
• Experience with engineering and/or scientific equipment ordinarily used in working in a lab setting on electronics, optics, and mechanical assemblies used in research.
• 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, and a 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.
• Excellent computer literacy 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

• Master's Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Optical Engineering, or in a field related to the work to be performed.
• Experience in one or more of the following areas: care of optics, optical alignments, stray light analysis and control, optical mountings, and/or optical coatings, including thin films.
• Familiarity with optical and/or near-IR detectors.
• 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

$50,000 + depending on qualifications and experience

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 comfortable 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 with hazardous chemicals and cryogenic liquids
• Working with heavy machinery
• Working at a computer
• Other duties as required

Work Shift

• 40 hours; typically, 8am-5pm (1 hour for lunch) 5 days per week.
• Frequent weekends, holidays, and on-call hours are expected
• Occasional night duty required
• Occasional travel

Materials required

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

Additional information and to apply:  https://utaustin.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/UTstaff/job/MCDONALD-OBSERVATORY/Optomechanical-Technician--Observing-Support_R_00014342