New

Research Technician, Optical (Extended Temporary) (Multiple Positions)

University of Arizona

life insurance, vision insurance, sick time

United States, Arizona, Tucson

Aug 21, 2025

Research Technician, Optical (Extended Temporary) (Multiple Positions)
Posting Number	req23703
Department	Steward Observatory
Department Website Link	https://astro.arizona.edu
Location	Main Campus
Address	Tucson, AZ USA
Position Highlights	The Steward Observatory at the University of Arizona invites applications for the temporary position of Optical Research Technician. This position will work at a one of a kind facility that produces telescope mirrors from 3m to 8.4m one-segment mirrors used in telescopes at multiple locations. The Optical Research Technician will learn the technology and evolution of what it takes to go from many pieces of glass to a full-size, polished mirror. They will also explore the methods of measuring and final polishing to obtain the desired results. The Research Technician will also discover how to operate the large machinery that process the mirrors, and monitor the computer programs during machine operation to record necessary documentation. They will also learn the different metrology methods used to test a mirror under the test tower, working on ladders and platforms to setup tests. To further enhance the prestigious research and development done at the RFCML facility, this position will work with a team on a 12-hour night shift starting: Thursday 9:00pm-Friday 9:00am Friday 9:00pm-Saturday 9:00am Saturday 9:00pm-Sunday 9:00am This is an extended temporary employment position. Outstanding UA benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; UA/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to UA recreation and cultural activities; and more! The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs. For more information about working at the University of Arizona and relocations services, please click here.
Duties & Responsibilities	Under close supervision by their supervisor, and using standardized processes and procedures, will operate a Large Optical Generator (LOG) and a Large Polishing Machine (LPM) to generate, grind, and polish multi-million-dollar telescope mirrors from 3m to 8.4m in diameter and weighing up to18 tons. Familiarizing oneself with the safety protocols of operating each machine and working on and around large mirrors. Work with a team on taking precise measurements to include optical, physical, and ultrasonic to evaluate mirrors' conformance to scientists' and engineers' specifications utilizing HREP, SCOTS, Test Plate, and Laser Tracker Measurements. Participate in moving the mirrors throughout the lab with an air cart within inches of fixed obstacles. Document log books and spreadsheet the runs, measurements and machine parameters, including notes on results of runs. Including filling out Daily reports. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Ability to acquire basic knowledge of job content, practices and procedures.
Minimum Qualifications	High school diploma or high school diploma equivalency is required.
Preferred Qualifications	Experience with the use of shop tools and using them safely around glass. Experience with electronic measuring devices and test equipment used on and around glass. Experience with Word, Excel and Adobe.
FLSA	Non-Exempt
Full Time/Part Time	Full Time
Number of Hours Worked per Week	40
Job FTE	1
Work Calendar	Fiscal
Job Category	Research
Benefits Eligible	Yes - Full Benefits
Rate of Pay	DOE
Compensation Type	hourly rate
Grade	4
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 represent 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	OC1
Job Family	Research Engineering
Job Function	Research
Type of criminal background check required:	Name-based criminal background check (non-security sensitive)
Number of Vacancies	3
Target Hire Date	9/29/2025
Expected End Date	8/13/2027
Contact Information for Candidates	Leslie Utley lutley@arizona.edu
Open Date	8/20/2025
Open Until Filled	Yes
Documents Needed to Apply	Resume and Cover Letter
Special Instructions to Applicant
Notice of Availability of the Annual Security and Fire Safety Report	In compliance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act (Clery Act), each year the University of Arizona releases an Annual Security Report (ASR) for each of the University's campuses.Thesereports disclose information including Clery crime statistics for the previous three calendar years and policies, procedures, and programs the University uses to keep students and employees safe, including how to report crimes or other emergencies and resources for crime victims. As a campus with residential housing facilities, the Main Campus ASR also includes a combined Annual Fire Safety report with information on fire statistics and fire safety systems, policies, and procedures. Paper copies of the Reports can be obtained by contacting the University Compliance Office at cleryact@arizona.edu.