Position Description

Mechanical Technician

Job Category
Fulltime Regular

ExemptOvertimeEligible
Overtime Eligible

Benefits Eligible
Benefit Based

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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

Under limited supervision, this position reports to the observatory deputy superintendent, working closely with all telescope support groups and the Chief Engineer. The Mechanical Technician will perform skilled mechanical installation, maintenance, and repair of observatory equipment.

Position is full-time, benefited, and located at Palomar Observatory, located at Palomar Mountain, San Diego, CA.

Essential Job Duties

• Works with the mechanical group in support of facility operations and maintenance.
• Assembly, installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of industrial and scientific equipment, including mechanical power transmission systems, hydraulics, precision mechanisms, opto-mechanical, and structural assemblies.
• Basic design and fabrication of custom fixtures, devices, or modifications to existing equipment.
• Participate in the service and maintenance of large telescope optics.
• Performs equipment rigging, lifting, and setting using cranes, hoists, jacks, and lifting hardware.

Additional duties:

• Updates mechanical drawings and maintains observatory site-based documentation.
• Tracks current design trends and availability of new technology as applicable to new or upgraded equipment, devices, or processes.
• Other duties as assigned.

Basic Qualifications

• At least 2 years of relevant experience, resulting in working knowledge of methods, practices, procedures, and tools used in completing major repairs, maintenance, and overhaul of mechanical equipment
• Skilled in the use of power and hand tools.
• Skilled in precision mechanical measurement and alignment.
• Demonstrated troubleshooting skills in solving technical problems.
• Knowledgeable in reading and interpreting engineering drawings and specifications.
• Ability to work under conditions involving considerable physical effort and dexterity with frequent exposure to inclement weather, natural elements, and working conditions.
• Requires knowledge of safety measures related to maintenance and repair work in elevated and confined spaces.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Able to work productively in a team environment.
• Able to lift 25 lbs. of tools and materials.
• Able to wear respirators.
• Able to work at a site altitude of 6000’.
• Must have a valid driver’s license at the time of employment and be able to maintain it throughout the course of employment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous Observatory experience.
• Heavy rigging experience.
• Basic knowledge of industrial equipment, electrical power, and control circuits.
• Knowledge of OptoMechanics.
• Skilled in the use of a variety of machine shop equipment, such as lathes, mills, drills, saws, and grinders.
• Skilled in the use of precision measuring instruments such as micrometers, dial indicators, and gauges.
• Experienced with computer-aided design software.
• Able to weld, solder, and braze safely and efficiently.
• Knowledge of Vacuum Coating Systems.
• Basic computer skills, including proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
• Degree or technical certifications.

Required Documents

• Resume

Hiring Range

$30.50 - $35.00 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.