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Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy · 15 hours ago

Mechanical Technician

Hilo, HI

Full-time

Onsite

Entry, Mid, Senior Level

$27/hr - $32/hr

1+ years exp

The Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy is a leading center for ground-based optical and infrared astronomy, seeking a Mechanical Technician to support and maintain sophisticated facilities and telescope systems. The role involves performing preventative and corrective maintenance, ensuring compliance with safety standards, and collaborating with other technicians and engineers to support observatory operations.

Non Profit

H1B Sponsor Likely

Responsibilities

Maintain and support telescope and observatory mechanical systems

Perform preventative and corrective maintenance activities according to approved procedures

Support telescope operations, upgrades, and engineering activities during the annual maintenance shutdown

Support the team during regular instrument exchanges, parts fabrication and machining

Ensure compliance with safety standards and operational procedures

Keep accurate maintenance records and update CMMS (Computerized Maintenance Management System)

Maintain tools, workspaces, and inventories of mechanical components

Collaborate, and cross-train, with other technicians, engineers, or scientists (within or outside the mechanical filed) in cross-functional work

Performs basic preventive maintenance independently following written procedures

Participates in complex maintenance tasks under supervision

Provides input to improve maintenance procedures

Keeps consumable and spare parts inventory up to date, reporting usage and restocking needs

Plans and executes preventive maintenance activities and implements corrective actions

Identifies improvement opportunities and makes recommendations to engineers and managers

Works independently on moderately complex maintenance and assembly tasks

Troubleshoots and corrects issues with telescope mechanical systems during operations

Operate and maintain lifting equipment (e.g., cranes, boom lifts) as certified

Develops preventive maintenance plans and procedures

Mentors, trains and supervises new or early-career technicians during maintenance activities

Provides operability and maintainability feedback to design engineers

Assists in the design, review, testing, and upgrade of complex observatory mechanical systems

Coordinates inventory management for tools, spare parts, and hardware

Qualification

Mechanical systems knowledgePreventive maintenanceCrane operator certificationTechnical drawing interpretationWindows proficiencyTeamwork skillsCommunication skills

Required

Mechanical Technician 2: Associate's or technical degree in a relevant field (mechanical, industrial maintenance, etc.) or 1–3 years of relevant experience

Mechanical Technician 3: Associate's or technical degree or 3–5 years of relevant experience. Demonstrated ability to perform preventive and corrective maintenance independently

Mechanical Technician 4: Associate's or technical degree or 7–10+ years of relevant mechanical technician experience, including 5+ years of telescope or observatory experience. Experience leading or training technical staff

Knowledge of mechanical systems, maintenance practices, and safety procedures

Crane operator and confined space certification (for Levels 3 and 4; preferred for Level 2)

Proficiency in Windows and PC-based applications

Valid driver's license and clean driving record; ability to drive a 4-wheel-drive vehicle

Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and maintenance documentation

Strong teamwork and communication skills

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.

Founded in 1957

Washington, District of Columbia, USA

1001-5000 employees

http://aura-astronomy.org

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 (13)

2024 (13)

2023 (9)

2022 (14)

2021 (10)

2020 (11)