Lead Mechanical Technician, Integration (Steward Observatory)

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.

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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Manufacturing Oversight & Directing Fabrication

• Direct and oversee the team in manufacturing assemblies from engineering concepts and designs, including managing raw material purchasing and component fabrication.
• Supervise the retrieval, modification, and reuse of existing assemblies from remote storage locations, coordinating necessary local travel.
• Ensure quality standards are met during the production of critical assemblies, including laps, tooling, mirror cells, and their respective sub-assemblies.

Equipment Configuration Management

• Manage and coordinate the configuration of mirror production equipment, such as grinding and polishing machines, to support production goals.
• Oversee the assembly, installation, and inspection of custom mirror mount interfaces, grinding/polishing tools, and required safety devices or structures.

Test Tower & Metrology Operations Leadership

• Direct staff and oversee the complex assembly and disassembly of test tower assemblies and metrology systems.
• Manage custom configurations of the 4-story test tower, ensuring team compliance with safety protocols, correct operation of cranes/lifts, and mandatory fall protection/harness training.

Facilities & Procurement Support

• Provide facilities support by managing vendor selection, assisting with quotes, and overseeing the purchasing and maintenance of lab equipment in compliance with regulations.
• Delegate facilities tasks appropriately or directly supervise personnel to maintain safe and efficient laboratory operations.

Team Supervision & Performance Evaluation

• Plan day-to-day activities, assign work, and formally supervise the team of hourly mechanical technicians.
• Responsible for training staff, establishing clear performance expectations, and evaluating outcomes against safety, quality, cost, and schedule metrics.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Ability to lead a small team of technicians
• Ability to safely handle optics
• Ability to use measurement tools used in tooling construction and mirror characterization
• Ability to write and follow procedures
• Ability to work at heights in both restraint and fall arrest
• Ability to communicate with scientists and engineers
• Ability to develop, assemble, and use large mirror tooling, including laps, handling equipment, and mirror cells, while maintaining a strong focus on safety
• Computer skills including MS Word, Excel

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.

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and experience
• A minimum of 3 years of related work experience
• Ability to drive according to the University Fleet Safety Policy

• Experience directing hourly staff for daily activities, training and work quality.