Mechanical Technician

1400 W Mars Hill Road, Flagstaff AZ

Description

**To Apply: Please visit www.lowell.edu/careers ** The Mechanical Technician assists with design, procurement, assembly, testing, installation, and maintenance of facility systems and equipment for Observatory telescope facilities and systems. Although this position primarily supports the Anderson Mesa and Mars Hill telescopes, the Mechanical Technician may perform similar duties at other facilities of Lowell Observatory, including the Navy Precision Optical Interferometer (NPOI) and Lowell Discovery Telescope (LDT) campus. This position is a member of the Technical Facilities group and reports to the Technical Facilities Manager. RESPONSIBILITIES This position is responsible for the following areas: ● facilities (including existing telescopes): mechanical aspects of inspection, maintenance, repair, troubleshooting ● equipment (including tools, spares, and PPE): repair/assembly/testing, organization and storage, procurement/inspection/verification ● documentation: routine maintenance and safety procedures ● operation: facility aerial work platform, bridge crane, forklift, and skid-steer loader ● assist with: clearing snow during winter ● other duties as needed and directed by the Technical Facilities Manager EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE The Mechanical Technician-I should possess a minimum of trade school certificate or associate’s degree in mechanical technology, or equivalent military training, or 3 or more years of relevant experience. Experience including metal parts fabrication, heavy equipment operation, machine tool operation, mechanical equipment assembly and maintenance, and general facility maintenance is required. Experience with cryogenic and vacuum systems is a plus. The candidate must have the ability to read and understand engineering drawings and documentation, and should be familiar with MS Office software. Familiarity with CAD software is a plus. OSHA crane and general safety certification is a plus. The Mechanical Technician-II should have additional experience specifically involving maintenance and/or construction of astronomical telescope facilities or other complex technical facilities. QUALIFICATIONS ● Attention to detail ● Ability to prioritize, work effectively during time critical periods, and complete tasks on schedule ● Self-motivated, and able to effectively support operation and maintenance of facility and telescope systems ● Time management skills to accommodate the demands of a high-pressure/volume workload characterized by numerous competing actions, projects, and issues that may frequently be highly complex and technically challenging in nature. ● Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing WORKING CONDITIONS The Mechanical Technician will be required to perform physically demanding tasks, including climbing; lifting, carrying, and using heavy equipment and tools; and occasionally working in confined spaces. Outdoor work is occasionally required including under inclement weather conditions. **To Apply: Please visit www.lowell.edu/careers **