The Mechanical Engineer III is a critical contributor to the success of the Next-Generation Global Observing Network Group (ngGONG) design project, bridging detailed mechanical engineering with system-level observatory performance. By leading the design of key mechanical subsystems, this role ensures that telescope and instrumentation hardware meets demanding requirements for precision, stability, and long-term reliability. Working in close partnership with the Principal Mechanical Engineer and cross-disciplinary teams, the ME3 helps translate complex scientific and system requirements into practical, manufacturable designs. The quality and rigor of this work directly influence the performance, serviceability, and longevity of ngGONG’s observatory systems—making this role essential to delivering a world-class solar observing capability.
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.
- Perform mechanical engineering design and analysis for telescope, opto‑mechanical, and instrumentation subsystems, using 3‑D CAD tools to produce models, assemblies, and detailed drawings that comply with project standards.
- Independently solve moderately complex mechanical design problems for assigned subsystems, including selection of materials, fasteners, and fabrication methods suitable for precision observatory environments and remote sites.
- Translate system and science requirements into mechanical requirements and design concepts for components and subassemblies, under the guidance of the Principal Mechanical Engineer and Systems Engineer.
- Perform or support mechanical analyses (for example, basic structural, thermal, vibration, and tolerance assessments) and use analysis results to refine and validate designs.
- Prepare engineering documentation for new parts and modifications, including drawings, bills of material, specification sheets, and integration procedures that meet configuration control and quality requirements.
- Collaborate with the Principal Mechanical Engineer, Electrical Engineer, and other team members to develop techniques, procedures, tooling, assembly sequences, and test setups for mechanical subsystems.
- Support sourcing and technical evaluation of parts and assemblies; work with vendors and fabricators to resolve manufacturability, tolerancing, and quality issues, and to ensure designs can be built as intended.
- Participate in mechanical design reviews for assigned subsystems; present design concepts, analyses, and trade studies; address review comments and implement agreed changes.
- Support prototype fabrication, integration, alignment, and testing activities; provide hands‑on support as needed during build and test campaigns at the lab or on site.
- Coordinate technical problem‑solving directly or in conjunction with other members of the project team, escalating issues to the Principal Mechanical Engineer when appropriate.
- Contribute to the development and continuous improvement of design standards, checklists, and best practices for mechanical design and documentation within the ngGONG project.
- Arrange and coordinate activities related to assigned subsystems and interact with other departments and vendors when required.
- Other duties as assigned.
Core Competencies
- Technical Mastery – Expertise in mechanical system design, analysis, and development for high‑precision telescope and instrumentation applications.
- Systems Thinking – Ability to balance performance, manufacturability, cost, and schedule at the subsystem and system levels, and to understand how assigned subsystems fit into the overall ngGONG architecture.
- Technical Ownership – Takes ownership of assigned mechanical subsystems; leads design tasks and subsystem reviews; fosters collaboration and knowledge sharing within the engineering team.
- Innovation & Problem Solving – Anticipates design challenges and develops creative, technically sound solutions using appropriate analysis and trade studies.
- Cross‑Disciplinary Collaboration – Coordinates effectively with optical, electrical/electronics, controls, systems, and civil engineers to ensure coherent interfaces and integrated designs.
- Project Execution – Supports planning, estimation, and risk management for mechanical design efforts on assigned subsystems; delivers work to agreed scope, schedule, and quality.
- Quality & Accountability – Maintains design integrity, adheres to engineering standards, follows configuration management practices, and ensures thorough documentation.
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
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related field.
- 5+ years of experience in mechanical engineering, including design, analysis, and documentation of complex mechanical subsystems.
- Ability to resolve technical problems by applying engineering and physics principles relevant to mechanical design, including use of 3‑D CAD tools and sound design practices.
- Proficiency with a 3‑D CAD package (such as SolidWorks) for part and assembly modeling and drawing creation, including basic GD&T.
- Experience performing basic mechanical analyses (e.g., hand calculations, simple FEA, or tolerance analysis) to support and justify design decisions.
- Ability to develop conceptual ideas based on requirements and specifications and help transform these concepts into functional, manufacturable hardware.
- Ability to speak and write effectively, including preparation and presentation of technical reports and design documentation.
- Ability to cooperate with and obtain the support of others, working effectively within multidisciplinary engineering teams.
- Knowledge of technological developments in relevant mechanical engineering fields and the ability to apply them to existing and new assignments.
Preferred
- Experience with large‑scale scientific instrumentation, aerospace, or observatory systems, particularly opto‑mechanical or precision motion systems.
- Working knowledge of materials, fabrication methods (e.g., machining, welding, brazing), and thermal/mechanical behavior for precision applications.
- Hands‑on experience with prototyping, integration, alignment, and testing of mechanical subsystems.
- Familiarity with configuration management, version control, and project documentation systems.
- Experience using FEA tools and/or basic CFD tools to support mechanical design work.
- Experience supporting alignment of opto‑mechanical systems or precision mechanisms, including use of relevant metrology tools.
- Demonstrated growth in technical responsibility and ability to contribute to technical excellence within engineering teams.
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: $110,000-$130,000. 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 (https://hr.aura-astronomy.org/benefits-by-location/)
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 23,2026 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: Lastname_Docname.pdf.
Individuals needing assistance with the employment process can request assistance here (https://aurahr.atlassian.net/servicedesk/customer/portal/34)
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights (https://www.eeoc.gov/poster) notice from the Department of Labor.
