Research Engineer, Steward Observatory

Position Highlights

Steward Observatory's Imaging Technology Lab is seeking a qualified R&D Engineer/Scientist I. The successful candidate will be involved in engineering, assembling, and evaluating imaging sensors.

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!

Please for more information about working at the University of Arizona and relocations services.

• Assist and support engineering functions such as operation, programming, and maintenance of equipment involved in image sensor production such as flip-chip bonding, stud bumping, wet-etching, wire bonding, and thin-film coatings.
• Assist in the development of new concepts and applications for semiconductor packaging and silicon wet-etching processes working with senior engineers.
• Work with senior personnel to improve and optimize systems used in sensor manufacturing.
• Help troubleshoot product, process, and equipment issues as directed by the supervisor.
• Assist in the development and modification of procedures. Maintain documentation including drawings and schematics, following established processes.
• Work is to be performed in an ISO7 cleanroom environment.

• Knowledge of cleanroom practices.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to work safely with acid solutions wearing appropriate PPE.
• Strong technical background in semiconductor processing.

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 advanced learning attained through experience required.
• 1 year of relevant work experience required.

• Experience carrying out experiments in a laboratory setting.
• Experience with ESD precautions and handling static‑sensitive devices.
• Hands‑on experience working with image sensors, semiconductor manufacturing, or electronics.
• Experience with software programming of manufacturing equipment.

FLSA Exempt.
Full Time/Part Time Full Time.
Number of Hours Worked per Week 40.
Job FTE 1.0.
Work Calendar Fiscal.
Job Category Research.
Benefits Eligible Yes - Full Benefits.
Rate of Pay $65,687 - $85,393.
Compensation Type salary at 1.0 full‑time equivalency (FTE).
Grade 9.
Grade Range full range of career compensation growth over time.
Career Stream and Level PC1.
Job Family Research Engineering.
Job Function Research.
Type of criminal background check required Name‑based criminal background check (non‑security sensitive).
Number of Vacancies 1.

Target Hire Date 5/11/2026.
Contact Information for Candidates Anita Sobey, ado
27.
Open Date 2/25/2026.
Open Until Filled Yes.
Documents Needed to Apply Resume and Cover Letter.

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