Job Description

Research Engineering Optical Fabrication Technician III, Steward Observatory Posting Number req27511 Department Steward Observatory Department Website Link https://astro.arizona.edu Location Tucson Campus Address Tucson, AZ USA Position Highlights

Steward Observatory is both a century-old observatory on the University of Arizona campus and one of the University’s oldest research units. Founded in 1918, the Observatory brings together students, staff, faculty, engineers, and technicians to explore the universe and share discoveries through world-class research, education, and outreach. With more than 180 professionals supporting advanced facilities, laboratories, and observatories, Steward Observatory offers a collaborative environment where technical expertise plays a critical role in advancing ground- and space-based astronomy.

The University of Arizona's Steward Observatory invites you to apply for the role of Research Engineering Optical Fabrication Technician III. The Richard F. Caris Mirror Lab is a one-of-a-kind facility that produces telescope mirrors from 3m to 8.4m in diameter that are used in telescopes around the world. This position supports the hands-on operation of mirror grinding and polishing equipment, measurement instruments, and transport equipment used during mirror fabrication.

This position supports the technical lead of a weekend night shift with hours of 9:00 PM to 9:00 AM on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.

This position supports a federal contract which requires that the selected candidate be a U.S. citizen (non-U.S. citizens or dual citizens cannot be considered for this position).

Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more!

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Duties & Responsibilities

• Supports the team leader with the operations of the LOG (Large Optical Generator) and the LPM (Large Polishing Machine) to generate, fine grind, and polish large telescope mirrors ranging from 3m to 8.4m in diameter and weighing up to 18 tons.
• Performs duties with minimal supervision while following established procedures, and safety standards.
• Demonstrates knowledge of operating requirements and technical processes related to the optical fabrication of large-scale mirror production.
• Works with a team of technicians to take precise measurements, including optical, physical, and ultrasonic methods, to evaluate mirror conformance to scientists' and engineers' specifications including HREP, SCOTS, SLOTS, Test Plate, and Laser Tracker Measurements.
• Guides and trains lower-level staff.
• Supports the movement of mirrors throughout the lab using an air cart within inches of fixed obstacles. Works with team members on proper positioning of mirrors and follows the safety protocols required during the process.
• Enters data into the project logbooks and spreadsheets, including information on runs, measurements, machine parameters, and notes on run results. Filling out Daily reports.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs):

• Ability to lead a group of technicians in operating specialized equipment.
• Ability to work with minimal supervision.
• Ability to train and coach junior team members.
• Proficient with Microsoft Word and Microsoft Excel.

Physical Requirements and Environmental Demands:

• Frequently lifts, moves, and transports equipment, tools, and materials associated with large-scale mirror fabrication processes (up to 50 lbs.) as required.
• Works in a manufacturing and laboratory environment where noise levels may require raised voices or hearing protection.
• Works in proximity to grinding, polishing, measurement, and transport equipment, as well as moving mechanical parts, electrical equipment, elevated work areas, and chemicals used in fabrication processes.
• May have skin or airborne exposure to oils, lubricants, cutting fluids, and other materials used in optical fabrication operations.
• Follow established safety protocols and personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements.

This job posting reflects the general nature and level of work expected of the selected candidate(s). It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The institution reserves the right to amend or update this description as organizational priorities and institutional needs evolve.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or high school diploma equivalency is required.
• Minimum of 5 years of relevant experience, or equivalent combination of education and work experience.
• This position supports a federal contract which requires that the selected candidate be a U.S. citizen (non-U.S. citizens or dual citizens cannot be considered for this position).

Preferred Qualifications

• Extensive working knowledge of large optic handling, generation, fine grinding, polishing, and metrology.
• Experience leading and training junior technicians.

FLSA Non-Exempt Full Time/Part Time Full Time Number of Hours Worked per Week 40 Job FTE 1.0 Work Calendar Fiscal Job Category Research Benefits Eligible Yes - Full Benefits Rate of Pay $25.50 - $31.88 Compensation Type hourly rate Grade 7 Compensation Guidance The 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 Level OC3 Job Family Research Engineering Job Function Research Type of criminal background check required: Name-based criminal background check (non-security sensitive) Number of Vacancies 1 Target Hire Date Expected End Date Contact Information for Candidates Chip Ragan

Manager, RFC Mirror Lab

cragan@arizona.edu

Open Date 10/30/2026 Open Until Filled Yes Documents Needed to Apply Resume and Cover Letter Special Instructions to Applicant Notice of Availability of the Annual Security and Fire Safety Report In compliance with the Jeanne Clery Campus Safety 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 cleryact@arizona.edu.