*** As of November 26th, 2018, this position has been filled ***
McDonald Observatory at The University of Texas at Austin, has an opening for an opto-mechanical technician at the Hobby-Eberly Telescope (HET); a state-of-the-art optical telescope facility located in the Davis Mountains of West Texas, 16 miles from Ft. Davis, Texas (440 miles west of UT Austin campus). This position is responsible for maintaining the many optical systems throughout the facility with the principal focus on the large (10 meter), multi-segmented (91 mirrors), primary mirror. Maintaining the primary mirror involves removing and installing individual segments (swapping) as well as sustaining the critical peripheral systems required to support this array. The critical support systems include 1) the Segment Alignment and Maintenance System (SAMS), a sensor system that measures the figure of the primary mirror 2) the Segment Control System (SCS), a motor driven positioning system for each of the individual mirror segments and 3) the mirror frame, a mechanical system designed to hold each segment in place. Other work includes supporting the mirror coating process and thorough record keeping to document the work performed and the state of the various subsystems.
Required qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in science or engineering, or a related field; equivalent combination of relevant education and experience may be substituted as appropriate. Preferred qualifications: Two years experience working with optical systems and/or a laboratory environment. Math skill set including linear algebra and calculus. Computer skill set including programming fundamentals, MATLAB, LabView. Ability and/or experience with directing and/or managing projects. Ability to do basic troubleshooting on both electrical and mechanical systems. In addition, candidates should have the work ethic and drive to maximize the scientific output of the telescope.
Visit http://utdirect.utexas.edu/apps/hr/jobs/nlogon/search/0/ for a complete job description and to apply for job posting number 18-07-20-01-4216. For more information about the telescope and McDonald Observatory visit http://www.as.utexas.edu/mcdonald/het/het.html. Security sensitive position; conviction verification on applicant will be conducted. UT Austin is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer committed to diversity.