A full list of employment opportunities with both the Department of Astronomy and McDonald Observatory can be found via the links below. For openings at the Observatory, select 'McDonald Observatory' as the hiring organization. Listings will include both Austin and Fort Davis, TX.
- External candidates can view job postings on the public UT Austin Job Search page.
- Internal candidates can view job postings here.
- Please also see Postdoctoral Fellowships
Jobs will be posted here when open. Click on job title to see posting information.
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.
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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:
McDonald Observatory Utilities Crew Leader (West Texas)
Job Description:
To supervise and provide leadership to small crews responsible for the public water and wastewater systems, grounds keeping, and assisting with infrastructure maintenance and repair at McDonald Observatory, including fleet vehicles, heavy equipment, commercial and residential structures, and telescope dome structures and systems.
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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 may be available. Position is considered an essential employee for emergency or critical response.
Responsibilities
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Supervision. Provide daily leadership and supervision of staff assigned to public water and wastewater systems, and grounds keeping, and other trade areas such as custodial.
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Operations and Performance. Performs work in public water and wastewater systems, grounds keeping, and in other trades supervising. Provides training and oversight in proper maintenance procedures, including plumbing, electrical, HVAC and other craft work as needed. Inspects, maintains, and recommends purchases of equipment and tools.
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Administration and Compliance. Composes, reviews, and processes shop paperwork, including TCEQ regulated documentation, letters, reports, time sheets, labor reports, and material and equipment requisitions. Organizes and maintains preventive maintenance plans and status.
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Maintenance and Repair. Receives general specifications from upper management and reports progress on assigned projects. Plans, assigns, and inspects the maintenance, repair, construction, renovation, and/or operations work. Works effectively with crew leaders to accommodate special needs, or concerns requiring participation of other group members; works with other departments as necessary to reach common goal for facility development/repairs.
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Employee Performance and Training. Motivates workers to meet production and quality standards. Assists workers in solving work related problems at the job site. Conducts employee training, counseling, discipline and completes performance evaluations. In consultation with Physical Plant management, interviews and hires new personnel.
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Essential Employee. Serves as a member of the McDonald Observatory’s Emergency Response Team that responds to fire, medical, hazardous material or other emergencies that threaten or interfere with normal operations of the facility. Requires driving a UT vehicle.
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Performs additional tasks as assigned.
Required Qualifications
Diploma (High School) or GED. Three years of experience in leadership functions in the field of facility maintenance trade or related field and regularly performs the work typical of the craft of the other employees in the work group. Five years’ experience with managing the public water and wastewater systems, including trades related to this position. Must possess strong verbal, written, and interpersonal communications skills. Demonstrate professionalism in all work and public interactions. Excellent organizational skills. Ability to be adaptable, work independently, and as an integral member of a team. Excellent computer literacy skills. Ability to troubleshoot complex mechanical systems and understanding of process control systems. Relevant education and experience may be substituted as appropriate.
Preferred Qualifications
Five years supervisory experience in commercial, institutional, construction or facility maintenance field. Ten years of journeyman experience in construction/facility multi-crafted maintenance trades including HVAC, electrical, plumbing, carpentry, appliance repair, refrigeration, controls as related to the job functions listed. One or more of the following related certifications:
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Texas Class D (or better) Ground Water Operator license
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Texas Class D (or better) Wastewater Operator license
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Familiarization with TCEQ rules and regulations
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State license for plumbing, electrical or HVAC
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
Work Shift
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Generally, Monday — Thursday, 7am – 5:30pm
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Work evening, weekend, and holiday hours as needed
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Occasional after-hours work
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Occasional travel required
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Required to respond to emergency or non-emergency situations
Working Conditions
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Wear protective safety equipment and follow safety guidelines or procedures.
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Maintain professionalism in our interaction with the public and our fellow workers, as well as professionalism in our appearance, according to UT policy.
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Use of tools and equipment common for the particular trades working in.
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May work around varied conditions involving fire, mechanical and chemical hazards, and other hazardous materials.
-
May work in all weather conditions and in extreme temperatures.
-
May work around chemical fumes.
-
May work around electrical and mechanical hazards.
-
May work around standard office conditions. Repetitive use of a keyboard at a workstation.
-
Climbing of stairs. Climbing of ladders. Lifting and moving.
-
May require working extended hours in inclement weather with hazardous equipment or materials.
Required Materials
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Resume/CV
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3 work references with their contact information; at least one reference should be from a supervisor
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Letter of interest
Additional information and to apply:
McDonald Observatory Mechanic/Technician (West Texas)
Job Description:
Provide journey-level skills to perform work in a variety of technical trades in the maintenance, repair, fabrication, and operations of a remote research facility and to perform skilled work in an electrical, mechanical, and HVAC environment.
Job Details:
General Notes
This position is at McDonald Observatory, located 16 miles from Fort Davis, Texas (440 miles away from The University of Texas at Austin's main campus). Variable scheduling with some holiday rotation. Residence in the Observatory's residential community may be available. The position is considered an essential employee for emergency or critical response.
Responsibilities
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HVAC and Electrical: Provide skilled work with HVAC and electrical systems in commercial and residential structures. Perform maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting of residential, commercial, and telescope structures related to mechanical, electrical, HVAC, and hydraulic systems.
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Maintenance and Repair: Assists with carpentry and general residential maintenance including (but not limited to) concrete work, structure repairs, drywall, painting, appliance servicing, and plumbing repairs. Perform preventive maintenance tasks as required on telescope domes and physical plant equipment.
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Equipment and Machinery: Supports projects involving plumbing, electrical, and residential repairs and upgrades. Operate various types of equipment including tractor, backhoe, and forklift. Assist with welding, machining, and fabrication of aluminum metal parts and assemblies. Utilize metal lathe, milling machine, and drill press. Ability to interpret three-dimension assemblies from two-dimension drawings. Maintain logs and records on equipment. Informs supervisor of conditions.
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Team Support: Help co-workers as necessary with various disciplines in a team-oriented environment.
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Essential Employee: Serves as a member of the McDonald Observatory’s Emergency Response Team that responds to fire, medical, hazardous material, or other emergencies that threaten or interfere with normal operations of the facility. Requires driving a UT vehicle.
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Performs additional tasks as assigned.
Required Qualifications
High school diploma 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. Good organization and planning skills. Assists in assuming the responsibility of the facility, including managing time efficiently, supporting other workers, and demonstrating attention to detail. Relevant education and experience may be substituted as appropriate.
Preferred Qualifications
Journeyman's license in electrical. Significant experience in the installation and troubleshooting of 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
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Wear uniforms and/or personal protective safety equipment and follow safety guidelines or procedures.
-
Maintain professionalism in interactions with the public and fellow workers, as well as professionalism in appearance, according to UT policy.
-
Use of tools and equipment common for the particular trades working in.
-
May work around varied conditions involving fire, mechanical and chemical hazards, and other hazardous materials.
-
May work in all weather conditions and in extreme temperatures.
-
May work around chemical fumes, chemicals, and biohazards.
-
May work around electrical and mechanical hazards.
-
May work around standard office conditions. Repetitive use of a keyboard at a workstation.
-
Use of manual dexterity.
-
Climbing of stairs. Climbing of ladders. Lifting and moving.
-
May require working extended hours in inclement weather with hazardous equipment or materials.
-
Acts as a member of the Observatory's Emergency Response Team that responds to fire, medical, hazardous material, or other emergencies that threaten or interfere with the normal operations of the facility.
-
Observatory on-site housing may be available. Staff on-site in the residential community may serve as an essential employee.
Work Shift
-
Generally, Monday — Thursday, 7 am – 5:30 pm
-
Work evening, weekend, and holiday hours as needed
-
Occasional after-hours work
-
Occasional travel required
-
Required to respond to an emergency or non-emergency situations
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:
