Lead Telescope Assembly Technician

Position Description

Lead Telescope Assembly Technician

Job Category
Fulltime Term

ExemptOvertimeEligible
Overtime Eligible

Benefits Eligible
Benefit Based

Caltech is a world-renowned science and engineering institute that marshals some of the world's brightest minds and most innovative tools to address fundamental scientific questions. We thrive on finding and cultivating talented people who are passionate about what they do. Join us and be a part of the diverse Caltech community.

Job Summary

We are seeking an experienced, highly capable, and detail-oriented Telescope Assembly Technician, Lead to join the Physics, Mathematics and Astronomy Division (PMA) in support of the reassembly and refurbishment of the Leighton Telescope. The successful candidate will demonstrate strong technical expertise, leadership capability, sound judgment, and advanced problem-solving skills in a dynamic, field-based environment.

This role is responsible for overseeing and executing mechanical assembly and subsystem integration while coordinating day-to-day field operations. The Lead Technician provides technical direction to technicians and contractors, ensures alignment with engineering specifications, and supports the resolution of complex technical and logistical challenges. The position requires the ability to translate engineering requirements into effective field execution, while maintaining high standards for safety, quality, and documentation.

The successful candidate will serve as a key point of coordination between engineering staff, project leadership, and field personnel. This includes regular interaction with Chile-based technicians, contractors, and vendors, as well as collaboration with project stakeholders in Pasadena. The role requires strong organizational awareness, the ability to manage competing priorities, and the judgment to make informed decisions in real time to maintain progress and quality.

This full-time assignment requires a high level of independent judgment, leadership, and accountability. The position plays a critical role in ensuring that project objectives are met by guiding field execution, maintaining workflow continuity, and upholding technical and operational standards across the team.

Essential Job Duties

• Perform complex mechanical assembly and subsystem integration
• Lead day-to-day field operations including planning and task assignment
• Provide technical direction to technicians and contractors
• Interpret and apply engineering drawings and specifications
• Serve as liaison between engineers and field team
• Coordinate rigging and crane operations
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues
• Review work for quality and compliance
• Ensure proper documentation of all work
• Enforce safety standards
• Monitor workflow and maintain schedule

Basic Qualifications

• Extensive experience in mechanical assembly of large systems
• Experience leading technical teams
• Strong understanding of engineering drawings
• Ability to troubleshoot complex systems
• Strong coordination and communication skills
• Valid driver’s license

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with telescope or scientific instrument assembly
• Experience in high-altitude or remote environments
• Spanish language proficiency

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 16 kg (35 lb)
• Ability to climb ladders and work at height
• Physical strength and dexterity required for mechanical assembly work

Work Environment

• Outdoor workyard environment
• Initial assembly site at approximately 2900 m (9500 ft) altitude
• Deployment site at approximately 5115 m (16800 ft) altitude
• Work conducted in a remote location (San Pedro de Atacama, Chile)

Conditions of Employment

• Successful completion of a post-offer high-altitude medical examination
• Ability to work in a remote international location for extended periods
• Compliance with all visa and international assignment requirements
• Adherence to all institutional and site-specific safety policies
• Ability to work flexible schedules as required by project timelines
• This position is required to live in housing designated by Caltech. Lodging is provided for the convenience of Caltech.

Required Documents

• Resume or CV

Hiring Range

$40.50 - $64.00 Per Hour

The salary of the finalist(s) selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, internal equity, experience, education, specialty and training.

As one of the largest employers in Pasadena, CA, Caltech is committed to providing comprehensive benefits to eligible employees and their eligible dependents. Our benefits package includes competitive compensation, health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement savings plans, generous paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick time, parental leave, bereavement, etc.), tuition reimbursement, and more. Non-benefit eligible employees will have access to some benefits such as onsite counseling and sick time. Learn more about our benefits and staff perks.

EEO Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Caltech is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.