R&D Electrical Engineer III

Position Overview

Steward Observatory’s Arizona Radio Observatory (ARO) and Mountain Operations are seeking an exceptional candidate for the role of R&D Electrical Engineer III at Steward Observatory, located outside of Tucson, AZ, USA. The candidate will work alongside scientists, engineers, and technicians maintaining and upgrading radio and optical telescopes at sites including Kitt Peak, Mt. Graham, Mt. Lemmon, and Mt. Bigelow. This role supports both routine operations and major development projects in a dynamic, team-oriented environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Support operations for telescopes in southern Arizona by troubleshooting, repairing, and maintaining equipment at various sites – sometimes requiring overnight travel.
• Take the lead in the engineering phase of projects, providing direction and coordination for the design, development, implementation, and commissioning of new electrical, electro-mechanical, and control systems.
• Oversee and provide engineering design and analysis support to multiple Steward Observatory projects.
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support the overall objectives of the observatory.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering with 5 years of experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience with motor control systems, AC/DC power systems, and servos.
• Proficiency in designing with devices such as Arduino, Raspberry Pi, and other embedded systems.
• Experience with monitor and control systems, industrial motion control, and thermal control systems.
• Familiarity with Windows and Linux operating systems and networking hardware.
• Proficiency in 2 or more programming languages.
• Must be able to operate a UA motor vehicle in accordance with the University Fleet Safety Policy.
• Ability to work nights, weekends, and occasional overnight stays at telescope sites.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with optical or radio telescopes in operations or construction.
• Experience with programmable logic controllers and digital signal processing in FPGAs.
• Expertise in digital and analog circuit design, including field troubleshooting and repairs.
• Familiarity with schematic capture, as well as 2D/3D CAD systems.
• Experience with RF system components, including microwave signal sources, phase-locked loops, and designing RF circuit boards.
• Knowledge of three-phase electrical control systems.

Benefits & Perks

• UA Benefits: Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans, life insurance, disability programs, and paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• Tuition Reduction: UA/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members.
• Retirement & More: Robust retirement plans along with access to UA recreation and cultural activities.
• Compensation: Salary range of $86,870 - $112,932 (Grade 11) with opportunities for growth based on experience, education, and internal equity.