Research Engineer bei Caltech

Caltech is a world-renowned science and engineering institute that marshals some of the world's brightest minds and most innovative tools to address fundamental scientific questions. We thrive on finding and cultivating talented people who are passionate about what they do. Join us and be a part of the diverse Caltech community.

Job Summary

This is an occasional position that supports Palomar Observatory remotely. Under limited to no supervision, this position reports to the observatory superintendent on an as-needed basis. This position consults with key observatory personnel to provide engineering support and historical records and context on projects at Palomar Observatory. Work will involve design and testing consultation, meetings with outside consultants, meetings and consultation with Caltech Optical Observatories Staff, and on-site work at Palomar as needed. Written reports and procedures will be provided upon request. Projects include but are not limited to: addition of new encoders to the 200" telescope, improvements and adjustments to the 200” hydrostatic bearing system, mirror coating quality assurance for the 200” primary mirror, and other planned initiatives. This position provides guidance and suggestions for the troubleshooting of critical failing observatory systems. This position meets remotely with key observatory personnel when needed.

Essential Job Duties

• Meet and consult with observatory engineers to provide guidance, advice, and support of critical and complex observatory systems, including telescopes and dome hardware, complex facility infrastructure, and other critical components.
• Consult with and guide observatory engineers during the diagnosis, troubleshooting, and testing of failing high-level observatory systems.
• Participate in the strategic long-term planning of observatory systems.
• Special other duties as assigned.

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline.
• 10 years or more of experience in engineering systems.
• 15 years or more of experience in engineering systems at Palomar Observatory.

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledgeable of a wide spectrum of engineering materials and processes. Examples include metallurgy, coatings, engineered plastics, optical materials, fluid properties, welding, and machining techniques.
• Familiarity with engineered products from outside vendors to be incorporated into projects, such as power transmission, motors, hydraulics, pneumatics, load cells, bearings, fasteners, and optics.
• Familiarity with basic telescope optics. Working knowledge of optical simulation programs is a plus.
• Familiarity with stress and load calculations as well as heat transfer issues and techniques.
• Skilled in Computer Assisted Drafting (SolidWorks and AutoCAD experience).
• Familiarity with vacuum and mirror aluminizing procedures is a plus.
• Thorough knowledge of engineering drawing, tools, operations, and document control procedures.

Required Documents

• Resume