AURA

Apr 04, 2026
Full time
$113,000 - $137,500 yearly
AURA HI
The Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope (DKIST) is the world's most advanced solar observatory. We are seeking a Mechanical Engineer to play a vital role in maintaining, supporting, and enhancing the complex facilities and telescope mechanical systems that ensure the reliability of mission-critical systems and help drive discoveries that deepen our understanding of the Sun. The position is available at two levels (Mechanical Engineer II or Mechanical Engineer III), depending on the successful candidates' experience, education, and demonstrated ability. All DKIST employees work in a collaborative, team-based environment supporting observatory operations and maintenance. The position is based at our spectacular Haleakalā Observatory site in Maui, Hawai'i. Job Level Summary Mechanical Engineer III The Mechanical Engineer III leads engineering projects of moderate complexity and provides coordination support across one or more project phases or divisions of advanced mechanical...
Apr 04, 2026
Full time
$111,546 - $124,318 yearly
AURA Tucson, AZ
NSF NOIRLab is seeking an Electrical Systems Engineer to support operations at Kitt Peak National Observatory, with primary responsibility for the Mayall 4-meter Telescope electrical infrastructure. This position is responsible for assessing, maintaining, improving, and ensuring the reliability of the telescope's power systems, including generators, uninterruptible power supply (UPS) systems, and power distribution networks. The Engineer will evaluate the current electrical infrastructure and develop and implement necessary upgrades to ensure stable and continuous power delivery to critical telescope systems. A key responsibility of this role is the design and implementation of robust backup power strategies to ensure operational continuity during critical events. The position is based in Tucson, Arizona, with regular work at the Kitt Peak summit. Transportation between Tucson and the summit is provided. Essential Functions Evaluate the current electrical power...
Mar 27, 2026
Full time
AURA Boulder, CO
AURA/NSO is hiring for a Senior Controls Engineer (Sr CE) to provide senior technical leadership and end-to-end controls engineering expertise for the ngGONG telescope design project. This role is responsible for the ngGONG-wide controls and electronics architecture, spanning facility and rack-level power distribution and electrical/electronic/control systems for telescopes, instruments, safety, and observatory electronics. The Sr CE leads and contributes to the design of complex electronics control systems; manages assigned controls/electronic design work packages; and collaborates closely with multidisciplinary engineering teams, scientists, site/facility stakeholders, and external partners. The position solves complex controls and coordination challenges and supports project cost, schedule, risk, safety, and technical performance objectives throughout the design lifecycle. This position supports the currently funded design phase of ngGONG and is expected to continue into...
Feb 22, 2026
Full time
AURA Boulder, CO
The Mechanical Engineer III is a critical contributor to the success of the Next-Generation Global Observing Network Group (ngGONG) design project, bridging detailed mechanical engineering with system-level observatory performance. By leading the design of key mechanical subsystems, this role ensures that telescope and instrumentation hardware meets demanding requirements for precision, stability, and long-term reliability. Working in close partnership with the Principal Mechanical Engineer and cross-disciplinary teams, the ME3 helps translate complex scientific and system requirements into practical, manufacturable designs. The quality and rigor of this work directly influence the performance, serviceability, and longevity of ngGONG's observatory systems-making this role essential to delivering a world-class solar observing capability. The ngGONG project is currently funded for a three-year design phase, with the potential for additional funding contingent upon selection to...
Jan 23, 2026
Full time
AURA Boulder, CO
The Senior Optical Engineer for ngGONG plays a central role in shaping the optical performance of the National Solar Observatory's Next-Generation Global Oscillation Network Group (ngGONG). This international initiative is currently in the design phase and will modernize NSO's global network of ground-based solar observatories, enabling continuous, high-quality observations that advance solar physics and space weather research. As ngGONG moves through critical design milestones, strong optical leadership is essential. The Senior Optical Engineer leads the design, analysis, and integration of telescope and instrument optical systems, ensuring they meet demanding scientific requirements while remaining manufacturable, alignable, and cost-effective. This role directly influences the scientific capability, reliability, and long-term success of the observatory as it transitions from design into construction and commissioning. The ngGONG project is currently funded for a three-year...