Mechanical Technician

Overview

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.

Mechanical Technician (three levels available: 2, 3, or
4) 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, 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.
• Operates and maintains 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.

Education and Experience

• 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…