Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy · 2 hours ago
Mechanical Technician II
Maui
Full-time
Onsite
Entry Level
$32/hr - $41/hr
2+ years expThe Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy is seeking a Mechanical Technician II for the Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope. The role involves supporting the Technical Operations team with the operation and maintenance of observatory equipment, as well as participating in the design and commissioning of new systems.
Non Profit
Responsibilities
Interpret applicable service manuals and execute routine maintenance of observatory systems and equipment
Provide suggestions and feedback for improvements to mechanical maintenance procedures
Identify discrepancies in documentation, red-line drawings, and reports for updating/correction
Independently perform basic mechanical repairs and installations and assist with repairs of higher complexity
Support troubleshooting mechanical subsystems of moderate to low complexity
Assist in preparing the observatory for scientific and engineering operations by means of leading safety and pre-movement inspections
Interpret mechanical part fabrication and assembly drawings with support and perform basic general fabrication tasks with guidance from senior technicians
Operate Cranes, Forklifts, & Aerial Work Platforms as required
Ability to speak and write effectively
Ensure consumables, spares, tools, and test equipment are organized and maintained
Provide guidance to lower-level technicians
Comply with technical requirements and approved time schedules of assigned work
Maintain accurate records of maintenance activities, mechanical upgrades, and system performance
Monitor and report results of activities and note unusual situations
Cooperate with, support, and obtain the support of other technical personnel as necessary
Maintain cleanliness and order in all workspaces
Work in accordance with applicable safety standards. Ensure the safety of operations in areas under purview. Report any unsafe conditions and practices, and actively participate in team safety meetings and adhere to safety procedures and protocols
Expected to take initiative in their professional development by seeking feedback, improving skills, and identifying areas for personal growth. This includes participating in training opportunities and development programs provided by the organization
Contribute to a collaborative, respectful, and productive workplace by maintaining open communication, supporting team efforts, and fostering a sense of belonging within the team
All AURA employees are responsible for the proper management and control of all AURA property within their work area, whether assigned to them or someone else. This responsibility includes reporting any known missing, stolen, or non-working property in their work area to their supervisor or the AURA Property Officer
Responsible for ensuring compliance with government award terms and conditions assigned to this position or subordinates of this position as defined in the Vela Award Management system
Other Duties as assigned
Qualification
Required
High School Diploma or equivalent
Trade or technical school, apprenticeship, military, or other vocational training in the field of Machinery Maintenance, Carpentry, Plumbing, HVAC & Refrigerant Handling, Pipefitting, Machinist, Millwright, Welding, Ironwork, Automotive Maintenance, or equivalent
2+ years of general workforce experience in the field of mechanical systems and maintenance
General computer skills and familiarity with applications such as MS Office Suite, Google Drive & Apps, E-Mail, Timesheets, Slack, etc
Knowledge of general mechanical systems and components, including but not limited to: structures, mechanisms, actuators, and machine transmission elements
Ability to properly operate and use hand tools, power tools, and specialty tools
Ability to read and understand instructions, drawings, safety guides, and other written materials necessary to perform the job
Sufficient visual capacity to perform the applicable functions without the assistance of visual aids other than eye contact lenses or eyeglasses
Sufficient spoken aural capacity to hear and understand instructions, warning bells, fire alarms, or shouted instructions without the assistance of auditory aids other than a hearing aid
Ability to impart information orally so that others understand and can respond appropriately
Must possess sufficient mobility, strength, or dexterity in both arms and hands and both legs to: Grasp, push, pull, turn, or otherwise manipulate tools and mechanisms
Push, shove, pull, or otherwise safely and efficiently manipulate tools or mechanisms
Lift, hold, and maneuver objects of 50 lbs or more
Maintain balance while performing work
Remove parts, systems, and tools of 50 lbs or more
There will be occasional working at height, utilizing appropriate PPE
The position will be based at the Haleakala (DKIST) facility, and the ability to work at 10,000' elevation, sometimes during inclement weather, is required
Occasional travel between the mainland US and Hawaiian Islands may be necessary
Availability to work varying shifts, which will include occasional early mornings, nights, and/or weekends
Preferred
Training certifications completed related to Journeyman Status, EPA 608, National Institute of Metalworking Skills (NIMS), American Welding Society (AWS), ASE Certification, Airframe & Powerplant (A&P), Maintenance & Reliability, Mechanical Fundamentals & Troubleshooting, Pumps, Pneumatics, HVAC, Machining, CAD/CAM, or other applicable fields
Ability to use specialty software tools including but not limited to Computer Maintenance Management Software (CMMS), HMI Software such as Ignition, and JIRA & Confluence or other workflow management software
Ability to operate equipment including forklifts, telehandlers, and mobile elevating work platforms, as well as operate cranes using proper rigging techniques and methodologies
Knowledge of general thermal system operation and components, including pumps, piping, HVAC, and compressed air systems
Ability to perform general fabrication, including welding, cutting, forming, drilling, finishing, and manual milling and turning
Ability to perform pump preventative maintenance, alignment, vibration measurements, seal replacements, and rebuilds
Knowledge and experience with thermal systems piping and hose work, including selection, layout, and mounting; propress, brazing, welding; balancing and flow measurement; valves, y-strainers, circuit setters; system flushing, filling, draining; leak checks and repairs
Knowledge and experience with HVAC systems, including fans and fan coils, air handling units, filters, diffusers, ductwork, dampers, flow measurement, chillers, and refrigerant handling
Knowledge and experience with compressed air systems, including compressors, air dryers, receiver tanks, oil condensate separators, valves, piping, fittings, and FRL units
Benefits
Paid time off
Retirement plan contributions
Competitive salary commensurate with experience
Very attractive work environment
Company
Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy
AURA is a consortium of 40 US institutions and 6 international affiliates that operates world-class astronomical observatories.
1001-5000 employees
H1B Sponsorship
Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy has a track record of offering H1B sponsorships. Please note that this does not
guarantee sponsorship for this specific role. Below presents additional info for your
reference. (Data Powered by US Department of Labor)
Distribution of Different Job Fields Receiving Sponsorship
Represents job field similar to this job
Trends of Total Sponsorships
2025 (9)
2024 (13)
2023 (9)
2022 (14)
2021 (10)
2020 (11)
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageLeadership Team
Jack Tade, CPA
Deputy Chief Financial Officer
Theresa H.
Human Resources Business Partner
Recent News
2025-09-19
2025-08-08
2025-07-25
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