National Solar Observatory

Apr 04, 2026
Full time
$113,000 - $137,500 yearly
National Solar Observatory 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...
Mar 27, 2026
Full time
National Solar Observatory 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
National Solar Observatory 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...