Opto-Mechanical Engineer for the Discovery Channel Telescope

Organization: Lowell Observatory, 1400 W. Mars Hill Road, Flagstaff, AZ 86001-4499; www.lowell.edu Founded in 1894, Lowell Observatory is the largest privately-managed, non-profit research observatory in the United States.

Benefits: Full-time, exempt, full benefits

Position term: Expected project duration 4 years

Application Deadline: Open until filled

Project Overview: The Discovery Channel Telescope (DCT) is a project of Lowell Observatory and Discovery Communications, Inc. to design and construct a powerful 4.2-meter telescope with unprecedented capability for cutting-edge astronomical research and world-wide educational programming. Unique to the DCT?s optical configuration is the ability to switch from ultra wide-field (prime focus) imaging and surveying mode to a significantly longer focal length mode (Ritchey-Chretien) optimized for spectroscopy, infrared imaging, and other applications. The DCT project is currently in the preliminary design phase for the major sub-systems. Construction of the DCT facility began early summer of 2005 and is expected to conclude in 2007. The primary mirror blank was completed in September 2005; polishing and figuring of the mirror blank will commence in late 2006. Visit the official DCT website for more information about the project: www.lowell.edu/DCT

Qualifications Required: Minimum of bachelors degree in mechanical, aero, or optical engineering and 5 years of relevant experience. Experience in design, engineering, and construction of astronomical telescope facilities or analogous large precision machines. Includes experience with servo-mechanisms, structural dynamics, and precision engineering principles as applied to the design of structures and mechanisms. Fluency with AutoCAD design and/or SolidWorks software. Experience with systems engineering and high-vacuum systems including optical coating a plus.

Duties: Responsible for direct management of all tasks and contractors required to design, procure, and integrate a four meter telescope mount and dome enclosure. Provide engineering support to the design, procurement, and integration of other major sub-systems. Develop specifications, requirements, and procurement documentation. Define program tasks and schedules. Supervise contractors and assist in problem solving. Participate hands-on during integration and debug activities at the telescope site. Design ancillary equipment and facility assets for manufacture by local contractors in support of facility and telescope integration.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities: Attention to detail a must, organized, ability to prioritize, work effectively under pressure, timelines, and complete tasks on schedule. Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work effectively and professionally with departments, agencies, and personnel of diverse backgrounds during multi-faceted project. Self-motivated, able to work independently, control effectiveness of design, manufacture, and implementation of telescope, dome, and other major sub-systems. Manage time to accommodate the demands of a high-pressure/volume workload characterized by numerous competing actions, projects, and issues frequently of highly complex and technically challenging natures.

To Apply: Submit letter of interest, resum?, three references, and completed Lowell application to Human Resources, Lowell Observatory, 1400 W. Mars Hill Rd., Flagstaff, AZ 86001-4499 or via email to humanresources@lowell.edu The Lowell application can be downloaded from www.lowell.edu/hr