Mechanical Engineer III

Position Description:

Position Summary

The National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) is a diverse, exciting, and prestigious research facility that plays a vital role in the study of the universe. The Observatory operates a variety of radio telescopes that span the globe, including the famous Very Large Array (VLA) in New Mexico, the Very Long Baseline Array (VLBA), the Green Bank Telescope in West Virginia, and the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA) in Chile. These telescopes are among the most advanced in the world, allowing astronomers to explore the universe in unprecedented detail.

NRAO is seeking a Mechanical Engineer at the Very Large Array, 50 miles west of Socorro, NM.  The Engineer will be responsible for the carrying out and assisting in engineering analysis, design, and general execution of a project or whole system. This position is mostly self-directed and the Engineer will be required to follow projects from conception to completion. Responsibilities include recommendations, coordination and assisting in decisions on such aspects as design, procurement, manufacture, erection, test and some degree of initial operation.

What You Will be Doing:

The successful candidate will work both independently and within a dynamic team environment. General duties include but are not limited to:

●        Participate in the fabrication of test control apparatus and equipment, and determines methods, procedures, and conditions for testing. Ensures manufacturing, construction installation, and operational testing conform to functional specifications and requirements.

●        Work with other NRAO groups, engineers, technicians, to identify and solve problems. May also work in observatory wide efforts, whether problem related or new projects. Coordinates and directs operation, maintenance and repair of all site equipment, systems, and support systems.

●        Assist in preparing cost estimates and time lines, and other related analyses of projects. Makes recommendations for procedures, equipment purchases, and other improvements.

●        Follow safety procedures, complies with safety manual, watches for and takes steps to correct unsafe practices.

Work Environment

Work is will be split between in office design and engineering and in the field working with radio antennas and support equipment, along with facilities support. Work is typically performed in a research or development environment; will be required to stand and sit, and perform fine hand manipulation.  Must work near moving mechanical parts and/or with electrical equipment.  Occasionally required to climb or balance, and stoop, kneel, and crouch. The successful candidate may be required to travel domestically and internationally by air carrier and to travel by car between NRAO sites.

Who You Are:

●        You have a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, civil engineering, or related engineering field.

●        While not required, you may have an advanced degree in a related engineering field.

●        You have at least three years of related mechanical engineering experience.

●        You have hands-on experience working in the field diagnosing and analyzing industrial equipment issues and/or modifications. Good understanding of mechanical systems and hands on experience working with those systems. Systems include engines, transmissions, hydraulics, servo systems.

●        While not required, you may have four or more years of related mechanical engineering experience. Please note, experienced candidates may be considered for a higher ranking.

●        In addition, experience with facilities engineering and construction is a plus. 

Competency Summary

The successful candidate will have skills and demonstrated competencies in:

●        The use of computer and software packages such as Microsoft Word, Excel, Power Point, Autocad, Autodesk Inventor, and be willing to learn such packages as Nastran (structural analysis software).

●        A strong foundation in mechanical engineering is required.

●        Good general documentation and communication skills.

●        Troubleshooting and hands-on experience.

Physical Requirements

Engineer will be required to stand and sit, and perform fine hand manipulation. Must work near moving mechanical parts and/or with electrical equipment. Occasionally required to climb or balance, and stoop, kneel, and crouch. Employee will occasionally work at high altitudes, in high precarious places and in outside weather conditions, and may be exposed to chemicals, or the risk of electrical shock. Occasional travel to other Observatory sites is required and may include VLBA site visits.

Additional Requirement

Must have, or have the ability to obtain, a valid NM driver’s license

Safety Sensitive

The selected candidate must successfully pass a post-offer, pre-employment/pre-placement drug screen. Failure to pass the screen will disqualify the candidate from employment consideration for a period of six months from the date of the results.

Total Rewards:

The NRAO offers a comprehensive total rewards package for this position, subject to eligibility requirements. We are committed to serving our employees and their families with an extensive and competitive compensation and benefits package that supports our employees’ overall well-being and career growth.

Compensation

The NRAO strives to attract and retain dedicated, highly qualified, competent, and motivated employees by offering competitive compensation and recognition for performance.

Factors which may affect starting pay may include; education, experience, skills, competencies, other qualifications of the successful candidate, as well as internal equity and labor market conditions. 

Benefits:

NRAO’s benefits package addresses the needs of employees and their families with most benefits beginning on the first day of employment. NRAO provides excellent paid time off (13 holidays, annual accrual of up to 24 vacation days and 15 sick days, additional time off for doctor/dentist visits, and 8 weeks of paid parental leave). Medical, dental and vision plans are effective on the first day of employment. NRAO’s retirement benefit contributes an amount equal to 10 percent of a qualified participant’s base pay with no required employee contribution; we also offer an optional supplemental, tax-deferred plan for employee retirement contributions.

Application Instructions:

Select the “Apply” button. Please be prepared to upload your current CV/Resume and a cover letter describing interest and suitability for the position.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement:

AUI is an equal opportunity employer. Women, Minorities, Vietnam-Era Veterans, Disabled Veterans, Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities are encouraged to apply. To view our complete statement, please visit http://jobs.jobvite.com/nrao/jobs. If you require reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process due to a disability, you may submit your request by sending an email to [email protected].

The NRAO is an equal opportunity employer (M/F/D/V)