The Center for Astronomical Adaptive Optics (CAAO) at Steward Observatory is developing and operating several world class adaptive optics (AO) systems at large telescopes, specifically the Large Binocular Telescope Interferometer (LBTI), the adaptive optics system at the MMT, GMagAOx, and space based projects. The candidate must have thorough knowledge of optics and how they function inside of scientific instrumentation that is used on large telescopes. This would include knowledge of cryogenic and vacuum instruments. The candidate will be involved in designing building of instruments and their input will have consequences in the outcome of the instruments.

Outstanding 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; state and optional 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 .

• Optical Design: Will develop optical designs using ZEMAX and other optical software that meet the scientific specifications for astronomical observations. The candidate must have extensive knowledge of optical design and how direct input into a design will be used to build and implement an Adaptive Optics Instruments. This work will lead to reports, proposals, or publications that will be used to secure funding for building these instruments.
• Optics Ordering: Translating the optical design to requirements that will be used to send out to potential vendors for procurement of parts and optics. The candidate will need to be able to translate optical design to real world requirements that will make the item build-able and keep cost and schedule down. They will will work with vendors and will liaison between the UA procurement and vendors for defining any technical items related to the parts being ordered.
• Mechanical Design: Will direct mechanical engineers in how to implement the optical design. Will need extensive knowledge of mechanical engineering to be able to provide direction on how to implement the design.
• Instrument Alignment and Testing: Using the Optical and Mechanical design, will both direct and be involved in integrating and testing of instruments being built. The candidate must be able to use optical measurement techniques such as interferometers, alignment lasers, and techniques to ensure that the instrument being built is per what was designed.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:

• Skill in use of MATLAB software.
• Ability to communicate with technicians, engineers in other disciplines, and vendors, to direct mirror processing and ensure very large polishing and grinding machines are having the desired effect in removing glass.
• Ability to communicate with department administration and telescope project representatives (customers), including preparation of formal and informal reports and slide presentations.
• Skill in use of ZEMAX.
• Skill in use of Solidworks.
• Must have extensive knowledge of optical design and how it will affect the real world outcome. This individual should be able to take a design from the cradle to the grave.
• Must have extensive knowledge of Adaptive Optics and how that pertains to ground and space based telescopes.

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Optical Engineering & 5 years experience in optical design and testing, or equivalent combination of education and work experience.

• Engineering experience with space craft and telescopes instrumentation.