Posting Number req26125
Department Steward Observatory
Department Website Link https://astro.arizona.edu/
Location Tucson Campus
Address Tucson, AZ USA
Position Highlights
The University of Arizona's Steward Observatory invites you to apply to the role of Research Optical Technician. The Richard F. Caris Mirror Lab is a one of a kind facility producing telescope mirrors from 3m to 8.4m in diameter that are used in telescopes around the world. In this entry-level position, you will support hands-on operation of mirror grinding and polishing equipment, measurement instruments, and transport equipment used during mirror fabrication.
The Research Optical Technician will work with a team during a 12-hour shift running from 9:00 AM through 9:00 PM on Friday, Saturday and Sundays.
At the Richard F. Caris Mirror Laboratory within the University of Arizona’s Steward Observatory, scientists, engineers, and technicians are pioneering the future of astronomy through the design and fabrication of some of the world’s largest and most advanced telescope mirrors. Since 1980, the Mirror Lab has led groundbreaking innovations in lightweight honeycomb mirror technology, producing mirrors with unprecedented surface accuracy that are transforming how the universe is explored in optical and infrared light. Joining the Mirror Lab means becoming part of a collaborative team whose work is expanding the boundaries of scientific discovery and helping humanity better understand the universe.
This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.
Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more!
The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs.
Duties & Responsibilities
In this role, you will:
Set-up, operate, and maintain optical fabrication equipment to include a Large Optical Generator (LOG) and a Large Polishing Machine (LPM), under direct supervision by following established procedures, safety standards, and production requirements.
Assemble, align, and test optical components and systems according to experimental specifications and laboratory protocols.
Troubleshoot optical setups, identify sources of error, and implement corrective actions to maintain experimental reliability.
Support movement and handling of mirrors throughout the lab using an air cart within inches of fixed obstacles.
Work with a team to collect measurements and data to evaluate mirrors' conformance to scientists' and engineers' specifications including HREP, SCOTS, Test Plate, and Laser Tracker Measurements.
Maintain operational records by documenting machine runs, measurements, machine parameters, and results of runs notes in logbooks, spreadsheets, and daily reports according to department standards.
Learn and apply laboratory safety procedures, equipment operating requirements, and technical processes related to optical fabrication and large-scale mirror production.
Physical Requirements:
Ability to lift/move/transport up to 50 lbs.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Ability to acquire basic knowledge of job content, practices and procedures.
This job posting reflects the general nature and level of work expected of the selected candidate(s). It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The institution reserves the right to amend or update this description as organizational priorities and institutional needs evolve.
Minimum Qualifications
High school diploma or high school diploma equivalency is required.
Preferred Qualifications
FLSA Non-Exempt
Full Time/Part Time Full Time
Number of Hours Worked per Week 40
Job FTE 1.0
Work Calendar Fiscal
Job Category Research
Benefits Eligible Yes - Full Benefits
Rate of Pay $20.33 - $25.41
Compensation Type hourly rate
Grade 5
Compensation Guidance The Rate of Pay Field represents the University of Arizona’s good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. The University considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, education/training, key skills, and internal equity.
The Grade Range represent a full range of career compensation growth over time. The university offers compensation growth opportunities within its career architecture. To learn more about compensation, please review our Applicant Compensation Guide and our Total Rewards Calculator.
Career Stream and Level OC1
Job Family Research Engineering
Job Function Research
Type of criminal background check required: Name-based criminal background check (non-security sensitive)
Number of Vacancies 5
Target Hire Date 6/22/2026
Expected End Date
Contact Information for Candidates Chip Ragan
Manager, Richard F. Caris Mirror Lab
[email protected]
Open Date 5/29/2026
Open Until Filled Yes
Documents Needed to Apply Resume and Cover Letter
Special Instructions to Applicant
Notice of Availability of the Annual Security and Fire Safety Report In compliance with the Jeanne Clery Campus Safety Act (Clery Act), each year the University of Arizona releases an Annual Security Report (ASR) for each of the University’s campuses. These reports disclose information including Clery crime statistics for the previous three calendar years and policies, procedures, and programs the University uses to keep students and employees safe, including how to report crimes or other emergencies and resources for crime victims. As a campus with residential housing facilities, the Main Campus ASR also includes a combined Annual Fire Safety report with information on fire statistics and fire safety systems, policies, and procedures.
Paper copies of the Reports can be obtained by contacting the University Compliance Office at
[email protected].
