"Senior Research Engineering Technician"

Job Summary

The Adhikari Research Group at Caltech is seeking a Research Engineering Technician to join its team in Pasadena, California. This experimental physics and astrophysics group focuses on gravitational waves, fundamental physics, and precision measurements. The Research Technician will support engineers and scientists, performing a variety of tasks in the laboratory related to electronics, opto-mechanical assemblies, vacuum systems, and cleanroom processes. Occasional travel (up to 10%) to the LIGO observatories will be required.

Job Duties

• Operate and Maintain UHV Systems: Handle ultra-high vacuum (UHV) systems, including daily performance checks, calibration, and maintenance of vacuum instrumentation.
• Preventive Maintenance: Execute regular preventive maintenance programs for vacuum equipment, manage spare parts inventory, and perform physical inventory audits.
• Component Cleaning and Shipping: Clean and test components for installation in UHV systems and package parts for delivery or shipment, including handling equipment >20 lbs.
• Other Responsibilities: Additional tasks as needed, with some travel to LIGO observatories.

Basic Qualifications

• Education: BS degree in Mechanical Engineering, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• Experience:
• 3 years of experience in developing, testing, or operating scientific instrumentation, or equivalent laboratory experience.
• Skills:
• Proficiency in standard office applications (Word, Excel, etc.).
• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to evaluate quantitative information and perform mathematical calculations.
• Excellent teamwork skills, able to collaborate with a diverse team.
• Enthusiastic and proactive in learning new skills and following procedures.
• Other: Ability to handle complex procedures with safety-oriented focus. Must be willing to travel occasionally.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience:
• 3-5 years of hands-on experience with vacuum equipment and systems, particularly in cleanroom or high vacuum technology.
• Experience with UHV-compatible materials and mechanical design.
• Additional Skills:
• Knowledge of finite-element analysis and modeling techniques.
• Experience with large research or industrial facilities.
• Programming knowledge (e.g., MATLAB, C programming, UNIX).
• Proficiency with CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD, SolidWorks).
• Education: MS degree in Mechanical Engineering, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or related field is preferred.

Required Documents

• Resume.

Hiring Range

• $33.50 - $41.00 per hour (salary based on factors such as experience, education, and specialty).

Benefits

As a large employer in Pasadena, Caltech offers a comprehensive benefits package for eligible employees and dependents, including:

• Competitive compensation
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Retirement savings plans
• Paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick leave, parental leave, etc.)
• Tuition reimbursement
• Onsite counseling and sick leave for non-benefit employees

EEO Statement

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

Caltech is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.

For more information on Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO), refer to EEOC Self-Print Poster.

Disability Accommodations

If you need accommodation during the application or interview process, please contact Caltech Recruiting at employment@caltech.edu.