Job Description
Overview:
This role supports Steward Observatory’s mission to enable cutting‑edge discoveries in astronomy and astrophysics by developing, designing, and manufacturing high‑performance telescope mirrors for world‑class ground‑ and space‑based observatories.
The engineer will serve as a technical leader within the Mirror Lab, owning grinding, polishing, and figuring processes and ensuring mirrors meet extremely tight optical and performance requirements for flagship telescope programs.
Key Responsibilities:
• Define and execute grinding and polishing processes to achieve 10–20 nm RMS surface accuracy
• Analyze advanced measurement data to guide fabrication and optimize processes
• Conduct tests and experiments to improve fabrication methods and equipment
• Evaluate mirror fidelity and performance for internal leadership and external customers
• Write detailed technical reports and present findings to stakeholders
• Supervise and mentor assigned engineers, providing technical direction and guidance
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Required Skills & Experience
• 10+ years of optical fabrication experience (15+ preferred)
• Hands‑on experience grinding, polishing, and figuring high‑precision optical surfaces
• Ability to evaluate, interpret, and judge advanced metrology and measurement data
Experience delivering optics that meet extremely tight tolerances
Nice to Have Skills & Experience
• PhD
• 15+ years of optical fabrication experience
• Significant R&D experience in addition to production work
Background in nanomachining or adjacent fabrication disciplines
Education:
• Master’s degree in engineering or science relevant to optical engineering (required)
• PhD in engineering or relevant science (preferred)
No certifications explicitly required
Benefit packages for this role will start on the 1st day of employment and include medical, dental, and vision insurance, as well as HSA, FSA, and DCFSA account options, and 401k retirement account access with employer matching. Employees in this role are also entitled to paid sick leave and/or other paid time off as provided by applicable law.