Opto Mechanical Engineer I

The Opto-Mechanical Engineer I plays a key role in turning the ngGONG project's scientific goals into reliable, high-precision hardware. By supporting the design and implementation of opto-mechanical components and assemblies, this position helps ensure that telescope and instrumentation systems achieve the alignment, stability, and performance required for high-quality solar observations. Working closely with senior engineers, technicians, and cross-disciplinary teams, the Opto-Mechanical Engineer I contributes to designs that are not only precise, but also practical to build, operate, and maintain over the long term. This role directly supports the success of ngGONG by strengthening the foundation of engineering excellence that enables groundbreaking solar science.

The ngGONG project is currently funded for a three-year design phase, with the potential for additional funding contingent upon selection to advance into construction.

This position is based in Boulder, Colorado, on the University of Colorado campus.

• Participate as a member of the engineering design team to support opto‑mechanical subsystems, ranging from large optics to complex mechanical components, and to contribute to overall optical system alignment activities.
• Design, develop, and analyze opto‑mechanical subsystems in the telescope and instrumentation under the guidance of senior engineers.
• Develop optical component and mechanical assembly designs, including tools and fixtures for optical alignment and test. Assist in creating alignment, assembly, and test procedures, including sensitivity matrices and measurement plans, and in analyzing position and wavefront error of designed components.
• Assist in creating and maintaining optical and mechanical models using the relevant software tools (e.g., SolidWorks, Zemax, SpatialAnalyzer), ensuring they are current and consistent with design changes.
• Contribute to the analysis of scientific and engineering requirements and help interpret these requirements in technical terms for opto‑mechanical design.
• Participate in theoretical and practical investigations in the areas of optics, metrology, and ancillary systems, under the direction of senior engineers.
• Contribute to the solution of scientific or engineering problems where only general objectives are stated, seeking guidance from senior engineers as needed.
• Be responsible for compliance with applicable safety standards and for safe operations in areas under purview, including promptly reporting unsafe conditions and practices.
• Cooperate and coordinate closely with other personnel involved with assigned design and development tasks, including engineers, technicians, and project staff.
• May provide guidance to project‑assigned support personnel (e.g., technicians) for specific tasks, under the direction of senior engineers.
• Recommend changes in scope of work as design progresses and new knowledge is obtained, escalating such recommendations through appropriate channels.
• Comply with technical requirements of assigned work and approved schedules; report results of activities, document findings, and flag unusual situations or issues for senior review.
• Other duties as assigned.

Why NSO?

At the National Solar Observatory, you'll join a mission-driven community working at the frontier of solar science. Our teams are dedicated to understanding the Sun in ways that protect technology, enhance scientific discovery, and inspire global audiences. NSO offers a collaborative, forward-thinking environment where curiosity is encouraged, varied perspectives are valued, and employees can make a tangible impact on science and society. Here, you will have the opportunity to grow your career, lead innovative outreach programs, and help shape the national conversation around solar physics and space weather.

Required

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in physics, mathematics, engineering, or a closely related field, or at least five years of equivalent experience in a relevant technical role.
• Approximately five years of experience in the design, integration, alignment, manufacturing, and/or maintenance of precision opto‑mechanical systems (or a combination of education and experience providing similar capability).
• Working knowledge of optical and mechanical design software (SolidWorks preferred).
• Ability to resolve technical problems by applying engineering and physics principles relevant to opto‑mechanical design, including the use of 3‑D CAD tools and sound design practices.
• Good organizational skills and good written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to document work clearly and follow written procedures.

Preferred

• Experience in integration, alignment, and test of astronomical observatory optical systems or similar high‑precision optical systems.
• Familiarity with alignment equipment such as interferometers and/or CMM arms, and use of Spatial Analyzer or equivalent portable metrology software for large‑scale applications.
• Hands‑on experience with handling and cleaning small to large optics in a lab or observatory environment (approximately six months or more).
• Ability to read and interpret optical drawings and tolerances.
• Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings and tolerances.
• Experience in cleanroom usage, upkeep, and operation.
• Demonstrated ability to learn new tools and techniques and to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary engineering team.

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Must be able to remain in a stationary position at least 50% of the time.
• Occasional need to move about inside the office environment to access files, office tools, attendance in a meeting room, etc.
• Constantly operates a computer and other office productivity tools that require fine motor skills, such as a calculator, copy machine, computer printer, etc.
• May occasionally need to position self to maintain computer and related tools.
• Seldomly needed to move objects up to 10 pounds.
• Constant communication with other individuals. Must be able to discern and exchange information as appropriate to the situation.
• Constant need to distinguish, discern, and identify a variety of objects and fine details with accuracy.
• Occasional work at high elevation summit sites may be required (summit elevations range from 6,800 feet to 14,000 feet)

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this position. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities and skills required by personnel so classified. This Institute promotes Equal Employment Opportunity workplace that includes reasonable accommodations to otherwise qualified, disabled applicants and employees.

Salary and Benefits

Salary range: $93,000-$110,000. The final salary will depend on skills, qualifications, and experience. 

AURA offers an excellent benefits package including paid time off and retirement plan contributions, competitive salary commensurate with experience, and a very attractive work environment. Details on benefits can be found at Benefits by Location - Aura Human Resources   

About NSO and AURA
The National Solar Observatory is operated by the Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA), a consortium of leading universities and research institutions committed to advancing astronomical discovery. AURA manages world-class observatories for the National Science Foundation, providing scientific leadership, operational excellence, and a collaborative environment that supports groundbreaking research. As part of AURA, NSO benefits from shared resources and a community dedicated to innovation, transparency, and public service, ensuring its work has broad and lasting impact.

How to Apply:

If you're interested in providing high-level Engineering support for a mission-driven scientific program at one of the world's premier observatories, we encourage you to apply. Applications received by February 24, 2026 will receive priority consideration. This position will remain open until filled.

Submit your CV and cover letter (PDF format preferred) via our application system. Please name your files in the format:  .

Individuals needing assistance with the employment process can request assistance here