Optical Alignment Engineer, Steward Observatory (Multiple Positions) Posting Number req27566
Department Steward Observatory
Department Website Link https://astro.arizona.edu/
Location Tucson Campus
Address Tucson, AZ USA
Position Highlights The Center for Astronomical Adaptive Optics (CAAO) at Steward Observatory is developing and operating several world class adaptive optics (AO) systems on large ground-based telescopes, specifically the LBTI, MMT, and GMT, as well as on space-based projects including the Lazuli Space Observatory. The Optical Alignment Engineer (R&D Optical Engineer III) will be involved in the build, alignment, testing, and integration of flight and ground-based instruments. The successful candidate for this position must have thorough knowledge of optical design, basic AO concepts, high-precision alignment, and cleanroom lab protocols, including knowledge of cryogenic and vacuum instruments.
Duties & Responsibilities Instrument Alignment, Integration, and Testing:- Using the Optical and Mechanical design, directs, and is involved in aligning, integrating, and testing of high-precision instruments being built in a cleanroom. The incumbent must be able to use optical measurement techniques such as interferometers, Faro arms, and other CMMs, alignment lasers, and techniques to ensure that the instrument is precisely built to spec.
Optical Design:- Develops optical designs using ZEMAX and other optical software that meet the scientific specifications for astronomical observations, applying extensive knowledge of optical design and how optical inputs directly influence the design, construction, and implementation of astronomical instrumentation. This work will require technical reports and lead to publications on the performance of the instrument.
Opto-Mechanical Design: - Works with mechanical engineers to test, modify, and implement the optical design using extensive knowledge of opto-mechanical engineering to be able to provide direction on how to implement the design.
Optics Ordering:- Translates the optical design to requirements that will be used to send out to potential vendors for procurement of parts and optics.
- Translates optical design to real world requirements that will make the item buildable while keeping cost and schedule down.
- Works directly with vendors and acts as the liaison between the UA procurement and vendors for defining any technical items related to the parts being ordered.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:- Ability to communicate with vendors and technicians and engineers in other disciplines.
- Ability to communicate with department administration and telescope project representatives (customers), including preparation of formal and informal reports and slide presentations.
- Expert in use of ZEMAX.
- Expert in use of Solidworks.
- Extensive knowledge of Adaptive Optics and how that pertains to ground and space based telescopes.
- Extensive knowledge of optical design and how it will affect the real world outcome with the ability to take a design from the beginning to the end.
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.
Minimum Qualifications - Bachelor's degree in Opto-Mechanical or Optical Engineering.
- Minimum of 5 years experience in optical alignment, testing, and design, or equivalent combination of education
and work experience.
Preferred QualificationsFLSA 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 $86,870 - $112,932
Compensation Type salary at 1.0 full-time equivalency (FTE)
Grade 11
Compensation Guidance The
Rate of Pay Field represents the University of Arizona's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. The University considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, and internal equity.
The
Grade Range represents a full range of career compensation growth over time. The university offers compensation growth opportunities within its career architecture. To learn more about compensation, please review our Applicant Compensation Guide and our Total Rewards Calculator.
Career Stream and Level PC3
Job Family Research Engineering
Job Function Research
Type of criminal background check required: Name-based criminal background check (non-security sensitive)
Number of Vacancies 2
Target Hire Date Expected End Date Contact Information for Candidates Manny Montoya
Technical Manager, Center for Astronomical Adaptive Optics
omm@arizona.edu
Open Date 11/5/2026
Open Until Filled Yes
Documents Needed to Apply Resume and Cover Letter
Special Instructions to Applicant 
