Mechanical Engineer I-III (4786)

Company: National Radio Astronomy Observatory
Location: Socorro
Posted on: November 26, 2022

Job Description:

National Radio Astronomy Observatory

Position Description: Position SummaryThe National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) has an exciting opportunity for 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.The position is based at the Very Large Array radio telescope site, 50 miles west of Socorro, NM. Socorro is a small, historical town in the Rio Grande Valley, 75 miles south of Albuquerque. In addition to competitive pay, the NRAO provides excellent paid time off benefits (vacation and sick leave). Medical, dental and vision plans are effective first day of employment. Our retirement benefit contributes an amount equal to 10 percent of a qualified participants base pay. No contribution is required of the employee; we also offer an optional supplemental, tax-deferred plan for employee retirement contributions.Job Duties SummaryThe successful candidate will work both independently and within a dynamic team environment. General duties:

• 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 EnvironmentWork 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.Position Requirements: Minimum EducationA Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, or other related Engineering Field.Preferred EducationAdvanced engineering degree.Minimum ExperienceNo minimum experience requiredPreferred ExperienceThree or more years of related mechanical engineering experience. 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. In addition, experience with facilities engineering and construction is a plus. Please note, experienced candidates may be considered for a higher ranking.Competency SummaryThe 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.Physical DemandsEngineer 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. May occasionally work at high altitudes, and 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 RequirementsThe Observatory requires staff to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 to access our facilities.An offer of employment will be considered contingent until the selected applicant provides proof of vaccination.A selected applicant may request consideration for an accommodation for a disability or for a sincerely held religious belief. Must possess a valid driver's license as the engineer may be required to drive Observatory vehicles. An applicant must pass any applicable knowledge/skills assessments. Safety SensitiveThe 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.Application Instructions: Click the Apply button below. You will need to be prepared to upload your current CV/Resume and a letter of application 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 resumes@nrao.edu.The National Radio Astronomy Observatory is a facility of the National Science Foundation operated under cooperative agreement by Associated Universities, Inc.
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Keywords: National Radio Astronomy Observatory, Albuquerque , Mechanical Engineer I-III (4786), Other , Socorro, New Mexico