Mechanical Engineer (McDonald Observatory, UT Campus, Austin, Texas)

General Notes

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

The engineering work from this position will be part of the application of a wide range of disciplines including mechanical, optical, electronic, vacuum, cryogenic, and software engineering, used 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 change the galaxies with time, and understanding the history of the expansion of the universe itself.

Purpose

This position works in the McDonald Observatory's instrumentation group exercising a wide latitude of independent judgment to design, analyze, build, test, and support optomechanical and electromechanical subsystems for the McDonald Observatory instrument and telescope development projects. This position is located in Austin, Texas and reports to the Chief Scientist.

Responsibilities

• Designs and develops scientific instrumentation and mechanical equipment, often iteratively, including detailed requirements, design, modeling, and analysis, with wide latitude for independent action and decision.
• Interfaces with project leadership and staff to contribute substantially to the development of design concepts and requirements for new projects. Performs prototypes and supporting analyses and writes reports.
• Produces fabrication drawings. Places, monitors, and supports fabrication of designed parts in machines and other workshops.
• Directs, coordinates, or assists, according to assignment, in the assembly, deployment, commissioning, and field support of developed instrumentation and mechanical equipment.
• Documents projects and submit technical reports, and project results to management. Participate in design reviews and the publication of journal articles as appropriate.
• Continues development of engineering skill set and identifies potentially useful new technologies. Performs other functions as required to support business needs.

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 working 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, and design, assembly, and commissioning of precision instrumentation.
• Experience using or designing specialized research equipment as required by the research project.
• Strong verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Effective 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

• 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.
• Demonstrable learning of new disciplines outside of those learned during formal education.
• Familiarity with the electronic systems used in instrumentation motion control.
• Experience assembling and handling precision optical components.
• Experience with vacuum and cryogenic systems.
• Project management training and/or experience.

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

$80,000 + depending on qualifications and experience

Working Conditions

• Working at a computer, repetitive use of a keyboard at a workstation.
• Use of manual dexterity.
• Climbing of stairs and ladders.
• May include free climbing on/around heavy equipment.
• Heavy lifting and moving (must be able to lift 35 lbs.).
• Working with hazardous chemicals, cryogenic liquids, and chemical fumes.
• 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.  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 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 away 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/Mechanical-Engineer--McDonald-Observatory_R_00024569.

Grants & Contracts Specialist, Astronomy Program (UT Campus, Austin, Texas)

General Notes

The Department of Astronomy works synergistically with McDonald Observatory to advance excellence in research and education for the Astronomy Program. As one of the top-ranked astronomy programs in the nation, we lead frontier research in cosmology, galaxy formation and evolution, stellar evolution and star formation, exoplanetary systems, the Solar system, and instrumentation. We are a major founding partner in the next-generation Giant Magellan Telescope.

Purpose

To support the Astronomy Program's faculty and researchers in coordinating externally funded research and sponsored projects, while exercising sound and independent judgment. This includes assisting with the preparation of proposals and submission to the Office of Sponsored Projects (OSP), award and subaward project management, and the close-out process. This position requires strong collaboration with the business office.

Responsibilities

• Pre-Award: Assist faculty, researchers, and PIs with the preparation and submission of grant and contract proposals to the sponsoring agency, company, or foundation, including researching the submission process, meeting with Principal Investigators (PI), communicating with sponsors, creating detailed budgets and justifications, providing templates for administrative proposal documents, reviewing and proposing edits for technical proposal documents, and change requests. Prepare and coordinate subawards and additional contractual agreements under the award. Create electronic proposal review forms; act as the liaison with the Office of Sponsored Projects (OSP) for submission; navigate external sponsor proposal systems like NSF Fastlane, Cayuse, and Grants.gov; and ensure accurate and timely submission to sponsors through the submission portal. Monitor the status of submitted proposals.
• Award: Review grant agreements and suggest necessary changes during a contract negotiation for a smoother transition with OSP award negotiation. Work with OSP award negotiators to coordinate the facilitation of funded proposals or contracts to ensure execution, proper post-award paperwork submission, credit requests, and account set-up. Assist the PIs and business office team with all award maintenance needs that arise throughout a project, including award interpretation, continuation funding processes, progress reports, no-cost extensions, credit requests, and cost share planning.
• Post Award: In conjunction with the business office team members and the PIs, assist with the process flow to maximize efficiency in post-award management, including extensive communication with the business office team, faculty, researchers, and regarding budget analysis, projections, staff appointments on grants, inconsistencies, and budgetary reallocation. Assist with post-award amendments via OSP - cost and no-cost extensions and credit authorizations. Ensure compliance with internal and external policies and procedures, including institutional, sponsor-specific, Federal OMB Circular policies, and Uniform Guidance - CFR-200.
• Research Student Programs: Coordinates research programs funded by grants and the department, including the National Science Foundation's (NSF) Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) Summer Program and the TAURUS Summer Research Program. Includes the coordinating of stakeholder activities, routine communication, contracts, monitoring budget, forecast budgeting, verification of program compliance, and compliance documentation. Process requests for travel authorizations for grant PIs and students traveling on grant funding. Assist with the payment process and reimbursements.
• Reporting: Assist with the annual and ad hoc reporting that contains pre- and post-award metrics and reports on trends. Prepare training, guidance, and informational materials for faculty and staff on sponsored research. Attend conferences, presentations, and related campus organizations for research administration topics to stay abreast of new rules and trends in research administration.
• General Administration: Performs other related duties to meet the department's business needs, including instructional support, event coordination, occasional travel, and off-site project support. May recruit, hire, supervise student employees, assign daily tasks, and monitor progress.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in business or public administration, social sciences, or related field.
• At least 3 years of experience in the preparation, processing, and/or negotiation of research grant and contract proposals.
• Proficient in the use of Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Self-starter with demonstrated independent decision-making, flexibility, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work under pressure, while maintaining a high level of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple and overlapping programs and deadlines.
• Experience working with various constituents, such as faculty, research scientists, and students.
• Works collaboratively with team and helps as needed.
• Professional demeanor, punctuality, and good attendance are important.
• Relevant education and experience may be substituted as appropriate.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with contracts and grants.
• Experience using UT’s Research Management System.
• Experience with proposal submission to Sponsored Projects and federal agencies including NSF.
• Knowledge of federal project guidelines pertaining to institutions of higher education.
• Experience with UT accounting policies and procedures for sponsored projects, and prior experience working in a university environment.
• Certified Research Administrator.

Salary Range

$55,000 + depending on qualifications and experience

Working Conditions

• Works around standard office conditions
• Repetitive use of a keyboard at a workstation
• Use of manual dexterity
• Lift and move up to 20 lbs.
• Occasional travel and off-site project support
• Extended work hours may be required
• May process a high volume of documents with tight deadlines

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/Grants---Contracts-Specialist--Astronomy-Program_R_00024580

CNC Machinist and Programmer (McDonald Observatory, UT Campus, Austin, Texas)

General Notes

The McDonald Observatory is a major astronomical research observatory located 16 miles from Fort Davis, Texas (440 miles away from the UT Austin campus). This position is located on the UT Austin campus. The observatory fosters an environment that emphasizes personal responsibility, continuous improvements, teamwork, innovation, and safety. Applicants selected for interviews are encouraged to bring samples of their work.

Purpose

The McDonald Observatory CNC Machinist & Programmer is responsible for producing quality precision machined parts for astronomical instruments by programming, setting up, and operating a computer numerical control (CNC) machine while maintaining excellence and safety standards. Programming with MasterCAM (required) on CNC vertical mills lathes, and wire EDM machines. Experience with 3D surfacing.

Responsibilities

• Fabricate high-quality, high-precision parts in an efficient and timely manner by CAM programming, setting up and operating CNC milling machines, lathes, and wire EDM. Use personal judgment and initiative to match the machining process, layout, and setup to the job, including designing and building fixtures and jigs when necessary.
• Use manual milling machines, lathes, etc., for fabricating parts.
• Assist researchers and design personnel in planning instrument design and construction with practical knowledge based on shop experience.
• Maintain general use of perishable tools. Remain current on new manufacturing methods, practices, and tools. Instruct students and others using the shop as needed.
• Assemble, modify, repair, and maintain instruments and equipment, including mills, lathes, and wire EDM machines, for the Observatory, the shop, and the Astronomy Department.
• Other related functions as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• High school graduation or GED supplemented by or including a vocational machine shop and other technical courses such as mathematics, physics, and blueprint reading.
• Three years of experience as an instrument maker or machinist beyond the apprentice level.
• Advanced knowledge of programming skills, computer skills, and professional level of MasterCAM software to program CNC machines, ability to set up and operate CNC machines, and using PC computers to run programs and save files.
• Advanced knowledge of choosing and loading the correct cutting tools, tool paths and adjusting machine settings to the desired product specification.
• Advanced knowledge using a lathe, milling machines, drill press, micrometers, and other precision measuring devices.
• Good working knowledge of trigonometry, geometry, and basic math.
• Follows instructions when selecting appropriate tooling and fixtures.
• Ability to work independently, work under pressure, accept supervision, maintain a professional demeanor, work as a team member without day-to-day supervision, and effectively communicate with supervisors, co-workers, and customers.
• Strong problem-solving skills.
• Motivated and shows willingness to learn.
• Willingness to teach others machining skills if necessary.
• Demonstrates a strong mechanical aptitude.
• Handles deadlines and overlapping projects.
• Regular and punctual attendance.
• Relevant education and experience may be substituted as appropriate.

Preferred Qualifications

• Five or more years of experience as an instrument maker, machinist, or tool and die maker.
• Five or more years of experience programming and operating CNC mills, lathes, and wire EDM machines (specifically, Hurco, HAAS, and Fanuc WEDM), and planning, laying out and setting up tooling, jigs, and fixtures to fabricate single-part or multi-part jobs.
• Five or more years of experience using MasterCAM software to program CNC machines.
• Knowledge of solid modeling software (specifically, Inventor and SolidWorks), MasterCAM tool libraries, and geometric dimensioning and tolerancing.
• Technical courses such as machine tool programming and blueprint reading.

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

$50,000 + depending on qualifications and experience

Working Conditions

• Usual machine, scientific, or engineering shop conditions, such as sitting, walking, standing, squatting, stooping, and reaching
• Work under supervision
• Maintains a safe work environment
• Follows established procedures as well as quality and safety standards
• May be required to work multiple machines simultaneously
• Exposure to a variety of experimental laboratory shop conditions
• May work around chemicals and chemical fumes
• May work around electrical and mechanical hazards
• May work around standard office conditions
• Repetitive use of a keyboard at a workstation and use of a computer
• May work around bio-hazards
• May work around hazardous chemicals and cryogenic liquids
• Use of manual dexterity
• Climbing of stairs
• Heavy lifting and moving
• Working with heavy machinery
• Use of approved safety equipment if required

Work Shift

• Monday to Friday
• 8-hour shift plus 1-hour lunch break

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/CNC-Machinist---Programmer_R_00019101-1

Optomechanical Engineering Associate, Observing Support (McDonald Observatory, Ft. Davis, Texas)

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

Communications Manager (McDonald Observatory, UT Campus, Austin, Texas)

General Notes

McDonald Observatory seeks a Communications Manager focused on increasing visibility and awareness of UT Austin's research capabilities, scientific achievements, educational excellence, and public outreach activities. This is an exciting role with an opportunity to work in a unique college research unit and communicate science to a broad audience of enthusiasts. The Communications Manager will work with the Assistant Director for Education and Outreach to support McDonald Observatory's digital, print, and media needs. Finalists for this position will be asked to provide writing samples, marketing materials, or publications at the time of the interview. Finalists may also be asked to demonstrate editing skills.

Purpose

This position is responsible for advancing the communication efforts of the McDonald Observatory and the Department of Astronomy research operations, scientific achievements, educational excellence, and public outreach activities through compelling written content shared in multiple digital and print platforms. Organizes the development and execution of posts, stories, and digital platforms, including press releases, media requests, and filming projects from initial conception to completion.

Responsibilities

• Writes and distributes press releases for McDonald Observatory and the Department of Astronomy. Collaborates with institutional and research partners on joint news releases. Collaborates with the college and university communications contacts to promote and distribute press releases and news stories to a wide audience.
• Provides content and editing for McDonald Observatory digital platforms, including McDonald Observatory and StarDate websites, SkyTips newsletter, and print publications, including brochures, reports, and StarDate Magazine. Writes and distributes content for college and university publications as needed.
• Provides leadership to the McDonald Observatory communication team. Collaborates with StarDate creative director to develop content in line with McDonald Observatory outreach goals. Collaborates with external partners to promote McDonald Observatory and the Department of Astronomy communication strategies across multiple platforms.
• Handles all media requests for McDonald Observatory and the Department of Astronomy. Provides information, images, and video; schedules interviews; arranges visits to both the Austin campus and McDonald Observatory for news crews and documentary film crews. Liaises with communications personnel in the College of Natural Science and the President's Office. Promotes completed projects to the McDonald audience where appropriate.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor's degree and five years of work experience in online marketing and communications, journalism, public relations, or related fields, including content creation and content strategy experience; defining and delivering features that meet the needs of users; and/or professional journalistic writing experience for digital channels. Familiarity with Social Media (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok), Hootsuite, Constant Contact, Word Press. Demonstrated experience with project management, collaboration, and leadership skills. Able to multitask and prioritize assignments. Flexibility and ability to work in a fully team-centered environment. Good organizational skills and attention to detail. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Strong initiative and motivation. Ability to follow UT guidelines for publishing specific types of communications. Professional demeanor. Relevant education and experience may be substituted as appropriate.

Preferred Qualifications

Eight or more years of experience in digital marketing and communications. Experience developing and implementing a communication strategy in a higher education research department, academic department, nonprofit organization, or another organization conducting research. Knowledge of McDonald Observatory, astronomy, or observatory experience. Experience working for a scientific publication and/or translating technical and scientific concepts to a general audience. Writing/editing experience (articles, policies, informational e-mails, or similar documentation). Demonstrated photography or graphic design expertise. Proficiency in Spanish.

Salary Range

$61,032+ annually, depending on qualifications and experience

Working Conditions

• May work around standard office conditions
• Repetitive use of a keyboard at a workstation
• Use of manual dexterity
• May work in all weather conditions

Work Shift

• M-F workweek, with occasional weekend hours expected in response to news releases and events
• Occasional travel may be required

Required Materials

• Letter of interest
• Resume/CV
• Three (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/Communications-Manager_R_00021995