Mechanical Technician

The NSF NOIRLab is the preeminent US national center for ground-based, nighttime optical and infrared astronomy. NOIRLab is a Federally Funded Research and Development Center (FFRDC) which operates as a matrix organization, providing services across a range of programs:
Gemini, Rubin, MSO (CTIO and KPNO), and CSDC; with facilities in three geographic locations:
Arizona, Chile and Hawai’i. The mission of NOIRLab is to enable breakthrough discoveries in astrophysics by developing and operating state-of-the‑art ground-based observatories and providing data products and services.

The NSF NOIRLab is hiring for a Mechanical Technician who will play a vital role in maintaining, supporting, and enhancing the sophisticated facilities and telescope mechanical systems that enable world‑class astronomical research at the Gemini Observatory on Maunakea.

The position is available at three levels (2, 3, or
4), depending on the successful candidate’s experience, education, and demonstrated ability. All technicians work in a collaborative, team‑based environment supporting observatory operations and maintenance.

• Maintain and support telescope and observatory mechanical systems.
• Perform preventative and corrective maintenance activities according to approved procedures.
• Support telescope operations, upgrades, and engineering activities during the annual maintenance shutdown.
• Support the team during regular instrument exchanges, parts fabrication and machining.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards and operational procedures.
• Keep accurate maintenance records and update CMMS (Computerized Maintenance Management System).
• Maintain tools, work spaces, and inventories of mechanical components.
• Collaborate, and cross‑train, with other technicians, engineers, or scientists (within or outside the mechanical field) in cross‑functional work.

• Performs basic preventive maintenance independently following written procedures.
• Participates in complex maintenance tasks under supervision.
• Provides input to improve maintenance procedures.
• Keeps consumable and spare parts inventory up to date, reporting usage and restocking needs.

• Plans and executes preventive maintenance activities and implements corrective actions.
• Identifies improvement opportunities and makes recommendations to engineers and managers.
• Works independently on moderately complex maintenance and assembly tasks.
• Troubleshoots and corrects issues with telescope mechanical systems during operations.
• Operate and maintain lifting equipment (e.g., cranes, boom lifts) as certified.

• Develops preventive maintenance plans and procedures.
• Mentors, trains and supervises new or early‑career technicians during maintenance activities.
• Provides operability and maintainability feedback to design engineers.
• Assists in the design, review, testing, and upgrade of complex observatory mechanical systems.
• Coordinates inventory management for tools, spare parts, and hardware.

• Mechanical Technician 2
  • Associate’s or technical degree in a relevant field (mechanical, industrial maintenance, etc.) or 1–3 years of relevant experience.
• Mechanical Technician 3
  • Associate’s or technical degree or 3–5 years of relevant experience.
  • Demonstrated ability to perform preventive and corrective maintenance independently.
• Mechanical Technician 4
  • Associate’s or technical degree or 7–10+ years of relevant mechanical technician experience, including 5+ years of telescope or observatory experience.
  • Experience leading or training technical staff.

• Knowledge of mechanical systems, maintenance practices, and safety procedures.
• Crane operator and confined space certification (for Levels 3 and 4; preferred for Level
  2).
• Proficiency in Windows and PC-based applications.
• Valid driver’s license and clean driving record; ability to drive a 4‑wheel‑drive vehicle.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and maintenance documentation.
• Strong teamwork and communication skills.

This position operates in a professional office…