Mechanical Engineer, McDonald Observatory

2 weeks ago

Austin, Texas, United States The University of Texas at Austin Full time

Job Summary:

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.

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 submits 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 new technologies valuable to the instrumentation. Performs other functions as required to support business needs.

Requirements:

  • Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering or field related to the work performed and at least six (6) years of related experience, or a master's degree in a field related to the work 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.
  • 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.

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.

Working Conditions:

  • May work in all weather conditions.
  • Use of manual dexterity.
  • Climbing of stairs and ladders.
  • May include free climbing on/around heavy equipment.
  • May include 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 approximately 6800 feet above sea level. Environmental conditions can be unpredictable, and temperatures can range from -10F and +85F. Inclement winter weather can be expected which requires comfortable driving in wintry conditions on mountain grades.

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.
  • Three work references with their contact information; at least one reference should be from a supervisor.

Application Instructions:

External Applicant - A


pplicants NOT current university employees or contingent workers: You will be prompted to submit your resume in the first step of the online job application process.

Then, any additional Required Materials will be uploaded in the My Experience section; you can multi-select the additional files or click the Upload button for each file.

Before submitting your online job application, ensure that ALL Required Materials have been uploaded. Once your job application has been submitted, you cannot make changes.


Internal Applicant - Current university employees and contingent workers applicants: Before you apply, log-in to Workday, navigate to your Worker Profile, click the Career link in the left-hand navigation menu and then update the sections in your Professional Profile.

As a current university employee or contingent worker, you MUST apply within Workday by searching for Find Jobs. The application is one page, you can multi-select the additional files or click the Upload button for each file. Before submitting your online job application, ensure that ALL Required Materials have been uploaded. Once your job application has been submitted, you cannot make changes.



  • Employment Eligibility:Regular staff who have been employed in their current position for the last six continuous months are eligible for openings being recruited for through University-Wide or Open Recruiting, to include both promotional opportunities and lateral transfers.
Staff who are promotion/transfer eligible may apply for positions without supervisor approval.



  • Retirement Plan Eligibility:The retirement plan for this position is Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS), subject to the position being at least 20 hours per week and at least 135 days in length.


  • Background Checks:A criminal history background check will be required for finalist(s) under consideration for this position.


  • Equal Opportunity Employer:The University of Texas at Austin, as an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer,complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action.
The University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, religion, or veteran status in employment, educational programs and activities, and admissions.



  • Pay Transparency:The University of Texas at Austin will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant.
However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information.



  • Employment Eligibility Verification:If hired, you will be required to complete the federal Employment Eligibility Verification I 9 form.
You will be required to present acceptable and original documents to prove your identity and authorization to work in the United States. Documents need to be presented no later than the third day of employment. Failure to do so will result in loss of employment at the university.



  • E-Verify:The University of Texas at Austin use E-Verify to check the work authorization of all new hires effective May 2015.
The university's company ID number for purposes of E-Verify is For more information about E-Verify, please see the following:

E-Verify Poster (English) [PDF]
E-Verify Poster (Spanish) [PDF]
Right To Work Poster (English) [PDF]
Right To Work Poster (Spanish) [PDF]


  • Compliance:Employees may be required to report violations of law under Title IX and the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Crime Statistics Act (Clery Act).
If this position is identified a Campus Security Authority (Clery Act), you will be notified and provided resources for reporting. Responsible employees under Title IX are defined and outlined in HOP-3031.

The Clery Act requires all prospective employees be notified of the availability of the Annual Security and Fire Safety report.

You may access the most recent report here or obtain a copy at University Compliance Services, 1616 Guadalupe Street, UTA 2.206, Austin, Texas 78701.

  • Mechanical Engineer

    2 weeks ago

    Austin, Texas, United States University of Texas at Austin Full time

    Job Title: Mechanical Engineer - McDonald ObservatoryJoin the University of Texas at Austin as a Mechanical Engineer in the McDonald Observatory, where you will be part of a team that designs, analyzes, builds, tests, and supports optomechanical and electromechanical subsystems for research instrumentation and telescope development...

  • Mechanical Engineer, McDonald Observatory

    1 week ago

    Austin, Texas, United States University of Texas at Austin Full time

    Job SummaryAs a Mechanical Engineer at the University of Texas at Austin, you will design and develop scientific instrumentation and mechanical equipment, working independently with wide latitude for action and decision. You will interface with project leadership and staff to contribute to the development of design concepts and requirements for new projects....

  • Mechanical Engineer, McDonald Observatory

    5 days ago

    Austin, Texas, United States University of Texas at Austin Full time

    As a Mechanical Engineer at the University of Texas at Austin, you will design and develop scientific instrumentation and mechanical equipment, leveraging your expertise to drive innovation and advancement in the field.Key responsibilities include:Designing and developing detailed requirements, models, and analyses for new projectsCollaborating with project...

  • Mechanical Engineer

    2 weeks ago

    Austin, Texas, United States University of Texas at Austin Full time

    Job SummaryWe are seeking a highly skilled Mechanical Engineer to join our team at the University of Texas at Austin. The successful candidate will be responsible for designing, developing, and testing optomechanical and electromechanical subsystems for astronomical research instruments and telescopes.Key ResponsibilitiesDesign and develop scientific...

  • Mechanical Engineer Position at The University of Texas at Austin

    5 days ago

    Austin, Texas, United States The University of Texas at Austin Full time

    Job Title: Mechanical Engineer Position at The University of Texas at AustinJob Summary:The University of Texas at Austin is seeking a highly skilled Mechanical Engineer to join our team. As a Mechanical Engineer, you will be responsible for designing, analyzing, building, testing, and supporting optomechanical and electromechanical subsystems for the...

  • Senior Mechanical Superintendent

    2 weeks ago

    Austin, Texas, United States Polk Mechanical Company Full time

    Job OverviewPolk Mechanical is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Mechanical Superintendent to lead our team in delivering exceptional results. As a key member of our organization, you will be responsible for overseeing the installation of complex mechanical systems, ensuring timely completion, and maintaining the highest standards of quality and...

  • Mechanical Engineer

    4 weeks ago

    Austin, Texas, United States Texas Research International Full time

    Job Title: Mechanical EngineerAt Texas Research International, we are seeking a highly skilled Mechanical Engineer to join our team. As a Mechanical Engineer, you will be responsible for designing and analyzing structural components, generating fatigue in metals, and conducting experimental setups and data collection.Key Responsibilities:Structural design...

  • Mechanical Engineer

    2 weeks ago

    Austin, Texas, United States Full Circle Full time

    Job Title: Mechanical EngineerAt Full Circle, we are seeking a highly skilled Mechanical Engineer to join our team. As a key member of our engineering team, you will be responsible for designing and developing mechanical systems for a variety of building types, including commercial office spaces, schools, and healthcare facilities.Responsibilities:Design and...

  • Mechanical Engineer

    3 weeks ago

    Austin, Texas, United States Page Southerland Page Full time

    OverviewAt Page Southerland Page, we strive to create innovative designs that enhance people's lives. We're seeking a talented Mechanical Engineer to join our team and contribute to the success of our projects.ResponsibilitiesThis Mechanical Engineer will be responsible for designing HVAC systems for a wide range of projects, including mission-critical...

  • Mechanical Engineer

    3 weeks ago

    Austin, Texas, United States Page Southerland Page, Inc. Full time

    OverviewAt Page Southerland Page, Inc., we strive to create innovative designs that enhance people's lives. We're seeking a talented Mechanical Engineer to join our team and contribute to the success of our projects.ResponsibilitiesThe successful candidate will be responsible for:Designing HVAC systems for various project types, including mission-critical,...

  • Mechanical Engineering Manager

    4 weeks ago

    Austin, Texas, United States Motion Recruitment Full time

    Job Title: Mechanical Engineering ManagerAustin, TexasOnsiteFull Time$160k - $200kMotion Recruitment is seeking a highly experienced Mechanical Engineering Manager to lead their mechanical engineering team and drive the transition of their cutting-edge warehouse robotic product from development to full-scale production.Job Summary:The Mechanical Engineering...

  • Senior Mechanical Engineer

    1 week ago

    Austin, Texas, United States Burns & McDonnell Full time

    Job SummaryBurns & McDonnell is seeking a highly skilled Senior Mechanical Engineer to lead mechanical design project teams and create world-class designs for new projects, alterations, and redevelopments. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in mechanical engineering, excellent leadership skills, and the ability to adapt to changing project...

  • Principal Mechanical Engineer

    2 weeks ago

    Austin, Texas, United States CesiumAstro Full time

    Job Title: Principal Mechanical Engineer ICesiumAstro is seeking a highly skilled Principal Mechanical Engineer I to join our Mechanical Engineering team. As a key member of our team, you will be responsible for designing and developing mechanical systems for our space-based communication systems.Key Responsibilities:Design and develop mechanical systems for...

  • Principal Mechanical Engineer

    4 weeks ago

    Austin, Texas, United States CesiumAstro Full time

    Job Title: Principal Mechanical Engineer ICesiumAstro is seeking a highly skilled Principal Mechanical Engineer I to join our Mechanical Engineering team. As a key member of our team, you will be responsible for designing and developing mechanical systems for our space-based communication systems.Key Responsibilities:Design and develop mechanical systems for...

  • Senior Mechanical Engineer

    1 week ago

    Austin, Texas, United States Tech USA Full time

    Job SummaryAs a Senior Mechanical Engineer at Tech USA, you will lead the design of mechanical systems for buildings across various sectors. Your expertise will be essential in producing high-quality construction documents using Revit and managing project schedules to meet deliverable requirements.You will collaborate closely with other disciplines to...

  • Mechanical Project Engineer

    2 weeks ago

    Austin, Texas, United States West Contract Recruiting, LLC Full time

    Job Title: Mechanical Project EngineerWe are seeking a highly skilled Mechanical Project Engineer to join our team at West Contract Recruiting, LLC. As a key member of our engineering team, you will be responsible for designing and managing complex mechanical engineering projects.Key Responsibilities:Design and develop AutoCAD and Revit files for various...

  • Senior Mechanical Engineer

    1 month ago

    Austin, Texas, United States Tech USA Full time

    Job Title: Senior Mechanical EngineerWe are seeking a highly skilled Senior Mechanical Engineer to lead our design team in creating innovative and sustainable building systems.Key Responsibilities:Lead the design of mechanical systems for buildings across various sectors, including Higher Education, Culture & Performing Arts, Healthcare, K-12, Justice/Civic,...

  • Mechanical Design Engineer

    5 days ago

    Austin, Texas, United States SSOE Full time

    Design Engineer - Mechanical SystemsSSOE is seeking a highly skilled Mechanical Design Engineer to join our team. As a key member of our design team, you will be responsible for creating innovative and efficient mechanical systems for industrial and manufacturing facilities.Responsibilities:Design and develop mechanical systems, including HVAC, piping, and...

  • Senior Mechanical Engineer

    5 days ago

    Austin, Texas, United States BK Outlooks Full time

    Job Title: Mechanical Engineer, PE, HVAC/PlumbingJob Summary:BK Outlooks is seeking a highly skilled Mechanical Engineer with a PE license to join our team. As a Mechanical Engineer, you will be responsible for designing and managing HVAC and plumbing systems for various building types, including commercial office, K-12 schools, municipal buildings,...

  • Mechanical Engineer Position

    4 weeks ago

    Austin, Texas, United States gpac Full time

    Job DescriptionAn award-winning, multi-disciplined engineering firm is seeking a motivated Mechanical Engineer to join their growing MEP group. The company provides design services for residential, commercial, and industrial projects for a broad range of public and private sector clients.Responsibilities:Conduct field surveys of existing mechanical, fire...