New

Research Engineer

California Institute of Technology
vision insurance, parental leave, paid time off, sick time, tuition reimbursement
United States, California, Palomar Mountain
Oct 07, 2025
Caltech is a world-renowned science and engineering institute that marshals some of the world's brightest minds and most innovative tools to address fundamental scientific questions. We thrive on finding and cultivating talented people who are passionate about what they do. Join us and be a part of the diverse Caltech community. Job Summary This is an occasional position that supports Palomar Observatory remotely.Under limited to no supervision, this position reports to the observatory superintendent on an as-needed basis.This position consults with key observatory personnel to provide engineering support and historical records and context on projects at Palomar Observatory.Work will involve design and testing consultation, meetings with outside consultants, meetings and consultation with Caltech Optical Observatories Staff, and on-site work at Palomar as needed. Written reports and procedures will be provided upon request.Projects include but are not limited to: addition of new encoders to the 200" telescope, improvements and adjustments to the 200" hydrostatic bearing system, mirror coating quality assurance for the 200" primary mirror, and other planned initiatives.This position provides guidance and suggestions for the troubleshooting of critical failing observatory systems.This position meets remotely with key observatory personnel when needed. Essential Job Duties Meet and consult with observatory engineers to provide guidance, advice, and support of critical and complex observatory systems, including telescopes and dome hardware, complex facility infrastructure, and other critical components. Consult with and guide observatory engineers during the diagnosis, troubleshooting, and testing of failing high-level observatory systems. Participate in the strategic long-term planning of observatory systems. Special other duties as assigned. Basic Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline. 10 years or more of experience in engineering systems. 15 years or more of experience in engineering systems at Palomar Observatory. Preferred Qualifications Knowledgeable of a wide spectrum of engineering materials and processes. Examples include metallurgy, coatings, engineered plastics, optical materials, fluid properties, welding, and machining techniques. Familiarity with engineered products from outside vendors to be incorporated into projects, such as power transmission, motors, hydraulics, pneumatics, load cells, bearings, fasteners, and optics. Familiarity with basic telescope optics. Working knowledge of optical simulation programs is a plus. Familiarity with stress and load calculations as well as heat transfer issues and techniques. Skilled in Computer Assisted Drafting (SolidWorks and AutoCAD experience). Familiarity with vacuum and mirror aluminizing procedures is a plus. Thorough knowledge of engineering drawing, tools, operations, and document control procedures. Required Documents Resume Hiring Range $91.75 - $105.25 Per Hour The salary of the finalist(s) selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, internal equity, experience, education, specialty and training. As one of the largest employers in Pasadena, CA, Caltech is committed to providing comprehensive benefits to eligible employees and their eligible dependents. Our benefits package includes competitive compensation, health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement savings plans, generous paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick time, parental leave, bereavement, etc.), tuition reimbursement, and more. Non-benefit eligible employees will have access to some benefits such as onsite counseling and sick time. Learn more about our benefits and staff perks. EEO Statement We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Caltech is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor. To read more Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) go to eeoc_self_print_poster.pdf. Disability Accommodations Caltech complies with the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). We consider reasonable accommodation measures that may be necessary for eligible applicants and employees to perform the essential functions of a position. If you would like to request an accommodation to complete this application, interview, or otherwise participate in the employee selection process, please contact Caltech Recruiting at employment@caltech.edu. Additionally, if you do not meet the basic qualifications of a role but believe you can perform the essential functions of the job with reasonable accommodation, please reach out to Caltech Recruiting at employment@caltech.edu.