Senior Engineer, Optical Fabrication

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Senior Engineer, Optical Fabrication Posting Numberreq23983 DepartmentSteward Observatory Department Website Link Astronomy & Steward ObservatoryLocationTucson Campus AddressTucson, AZ USA Position HighlightsOur mission is to enable cutting-edge discoveries in astronomy and astrophysics by developing, designing, and manufacturing the highest-performance mirrors for use in ground and space telescopes. Our giant, lightweight, honeycomb mirrors are used in leading observatories including the Vera Rubin Observatory, the MMT, and the Large Binocular Telescopes. We’re currently working to enable future capabilities by producing 8.4 m diameter primary mirror segments for the Giant Magellan Telescope and other programs. In this role, you will:Provide technical leadership for grinding and polishing of telescope mirrors up to 8.4 m in diameterBe responsible for development of mirror fabrication processes and equipmentEvaluate test data to demonstrate that each mirror satisfies its requirements, and present results to Steward Observatory leadership and customersServe as the Mirror Lab authority for verifying the fidelity of surface evaluations for all stakeholdersYou’ll need:A master's degree in engineering or science relevant to optical engineering, plus 10 years of experience in optical fabrication; or equivalent combination of education and work experienceYou’ll want to have:Experience that includes significant research and development as well as productionOutstanding UA benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; UA/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to UA recreation and cultural activities; and more!The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs. For more information about working at the University of Arizona and relocations services, please click here.Duties & ResponsibilitiesDefine processes for grinding and polishing telescope mirrors to an accuracy of 10-20 nm RMS surface. Processes include diamond generating cast mirror blanks to final dimensions and shape accuracy of 20 microns RMS; fine grinding to remove subsurface damage and achieve 1 micron RMS accuracy; and polishing and figuring to meet demanding requirements over a wide range of spatial scales. Decision-making includes comprehensive definition of processes to be carried out repeatedly over a timescale of months, design of individual grinding and polishing runs, and strategic use of measurements.Evaluate measurement data in order to guide the fabrication process and to optimize the process. Recognize the limitations of measurements that are at the edge of what is possible, and determine which information is valuable and reliable. Carry out tests and experiments to optimize fabrication processes. Analyze mirror performance in multiple ways, including image quality, deflection due to mechanical and thermal loads, and active optics.Write reports on diverse subjects, including demonstrating that mirrors satisfy requirements at multiple stages of fabrication; and analysis of mirror performance. Present results to Steward Observatory leadership and customers.Supervise assigned engineers by providing direction on work tasks and guidance on skills and career growth.Evaluate proposed mirror requirements. Work with the metrology team to determine a comprehensive set of tests and their accuracy requirements.Minimum QualificationsMaster's degree or equivalent advanced learning attained through professional level experience required.Minimum of 10 years of relevant work experience, or an equivalent combination of education and work experience.Preferred QualificationsPhD in engineering or a science relevant to optical engineering.15 years experience in optical fabrication.Experience should include significant research and development, as well as production.FLSAExempt Full Time/Part TimeFull TimeNumber of Hours Worked per Week40 Job FTE1Work CalendarFiscalJob CategoryResearchBenefits EligibleYes - Full Benefits Rate of Pay$139,102 - $180,833Compensation Typesalary at 1.0 full-time equivalency (FTE) Grade14 Compensation GuidanceThe Rate of Pay Field represents the University of Arizona’s good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. The University considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, education/training, key skills, and internal equity. The Grade Range represent a full range of career compensation growth over time. The university offers compensation growth opportunities within its career architecture. To learn more about compensation, please review our Applicant Compensation Guide and our Total Rewards Calculator. Career Stream and LevelPC5Job FamilyResearch Engineering Job FunctionResearch Type of criminal background check required:Name-based criminal background check (non-security sensitive) Number of Vacancies1 Target Hire Date1/5/2026 Expected End DateContact Information for CandidatesHubert "Buddy" Martin View email address on click.appcast.io Open Date9/18/2025Open Until FilledYesDocuments Needed to ApplyResume and Cover LetterSpecial Instructions to ApplicantNotice of Availability of the Annual Security and Fire Safety ReportIn compliance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act (Clery Act), each year the University of Arizona releases an Annual Security Report (ASR) for each of the University’s campuses. These reports disclose information including Clery crime statistics for the previous three calendar years and policies, procedures, and programs the University uses to keep students and employees safe, including how to report crimes or other emergencies and resources for crime victims. As a campus with residential housing facilities, the Main Campus ASR also includes a combined Annual Fire Safety report with information on fire statistics and fire safety systems, policies, and procedures. Paper copies of the Reports can be obtained by contacting the University Compliance Office at View email address on click.appcast.io.