Instrument Engineer (7115U), Space Sciences Laboratory - #74469

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Departmental Overview

The Space Sciences Laboratory (SSL) is an Organized Research Unit (ORU) of the Berkeley campus reporting to the Vice Chancellor for Research. SSL's primary goal is to foster research in space-related sciences and to provide education for the next generation of space scientists. Research at SSL, led by Berkeley faculty and SSL Senior Fellows, focuses on experiments and observations carried out in space as well as theoretical and basic research.

Position Summary

This position requires an instrument engineer to support development of spaceflight remote sensing projects within UC Berkeley's Space Sciences Laboratory (SSL). The position involves providing engineering support in the design, assembly, and test of scientific instruments and payload systems (primarily space borne cameras, spectrographs, telescopes, and detector systems). Collaborative activities include frequent interaction with SSL's remote sensing engineering staff and project management, to meet science requirements while maintaining engineering integrity throughout the project's lifecycle.

Application Review Date

The First Review Date for this job is: December 2, 2024

Responsibilities

• Coordinates single component design, supporting analyses, construction planning, assembly, and testing. This includes, but is not limited to, detector systems, opto-mechanical assemblies, and specialized GSE needed to validate performance of instruments.
• Supervises or coordinates technicians and shop personnel involved in assembly and testing of component parts (instrument engineering model components).
• Works with the project engineering team(s) to develop procurement specifications for specific payload piece parts (EM & FM).
• Ensures that components are procured in accordance with project requirements.
• Works with other research organizations in the development of components for remote sensing instrumentation.
• Designs electrical, mechanical, or optical components for remote sensing instruments and specialized ground support equipment.
• Employs existing skills in CAD software to support detail design activities as needed.
• Performs the recording and reduction of test data for evaluation purposes. Specifically, supports the senior level instrument engineers in the development and execution of laboratory tests.
• Gathers and analyzes information and prepare reports with respect to feasibility, engineering design criteria and performance of their components. Works with team to assemble subsystem test procedures.

Required Qualifications

• Working skills in the design, development, and construction of space systems, including one successful aerospace product. Preferable experience supporting a NASA explorers class mission or development of an instrument for a large ground-based observatory.
• Specialist in at least one discipline (electrical, mechanical, or optical). Proficiency in related CAD systems (e.g., Altium, Zemax, Solidworks, or any other relevant software).
• Working systems knowledge of other engineering specialties involved in assignments. Includes development of plans and procedures that span multiple engineering disciplines (e.g., alignment plan, TVAC test plan, EMI/C test plan, etc.)
• Experience in instrument systems engineering, particularly in development of assembly and test plans/procedures for remote sensing instruments
• Ability to communicate verbally and in writing effectively. Ability to interface with various institutions and disciplines to accomplish project goals and meet requirements.
• Bachelor's degree in related area and/or equivalent experience/training.

Education / Training Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in related area and / or equivalent experience / training

Salary & Benefits

This is a 100% full-time (40 hrs a week) exempt career position, which is paid monthly and eligible for UC Benefits.

For information on the comprehensive benefits package offered by the University, please visit the University of California's Compensation & Benefits website.

Under California law, the University of California, Berkeley is required to provide a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this role and should not offer a salary outside of the range posted in this job announcement. This range takes into account the wide range of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions including but not limited to experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, analysis of internal equity, and other business and organizational needs. It is not typical for an individual to be offered a salary at or near the top of the range for a position. Salary offers are determined based on final candidate qualifications and experience.

The budgeted salary range that the University reasonably expects to pay for this position is $105,000.00-$135,000.00.

How to Apply

• To apply, please submit your resume and cover letter.

Conviction History Background

This is a designated position requiring fingerprinting and a background check due to the nature of the job responsibilities. Berkeley does hire people with conviction histories and reviews information received in the context of the job responsibilities. The University reserves the right to make employment contingent upon successful completion of the background check.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. For more information about your rights as an applicant, please see the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission poster.

The University of California's Affirmative action policy.

The University of California's Anti-Discrimination policy.