National Radio Astronomy Observatory · 4 hours ago
Mechanical Engineer III
Green Bank, WV
Full-time
Onsite
Mid, Senior Level
3+ years expThe National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) is an exciting and prestigious research facility that plays a vital role in the study of the universe. They are seeking a Mechanical Engineer to support telescope operations and projects, focusing on design, analysis, and integration of mechanical systems.
CommunitiesEducationInformation TechnologySatellite Communication
No H1B
Responsibilities
Lead and contribute to the design, analysis, and integration of mechanical systems for major telescope subsystems, including thermal management, environmental enclosures, structural components, cable routing, and maintenance/access infrastructure
Support the development, improvement, and deployment of mechanical assemblies associated with telescope instruments, receivers, and protective systems
Coordinate with engineers, technicians, and cross-disciplinary teams to identify challenges, develop solutions, and ensure that designs meet functional, operational, and safety requirements
Oversee or support the fabrication, installation, testing, and verification of mechanical systems, ensuring conformance with specifications, procedures, and quality standards
Participate in observatory-wide engineering initiatives, contributing to both new development projects and the resolution of technical and operational issues
Direct or collaborate with technical staff in the construction, maintenance, and repair of site equipment and support systems
Assist in preparing project documentation including cost estimates, schedules, technical analyses, and recommendations for improvements or equipment procurement
Maintain compliance with safety policies, identify and address unsafe conditions, and promote safe work practices
Perform other engineering duties as assigned
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field
At least 3 years' experience in related field
Proficient in the use of computer and software packages such as Autocad and Inventor
High-level of competency in Microsoft software products and web-based systems, Visio and SharePoint
Excellent communication skills – both verbally and in writing
Ability to apply critical attention to detail
Highly organized
Must be able to operate a personal computer
Must work near moving mechanical parts and/or with electrical equipment
Must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds
Specific vision abilities include close vision, distance vision, color and depth perception
Preferred
Master's Degree in Engineering and/or 5+ years of relevant experience
Experience with machining or manufacturing
Benefits
Excellent paid time off (13 holidays, annual accrual of up to 24 vacation days and 15 sick days, additional time off for doctor/dentist visits, and 8 weeks of paid parental leave)
Medical, dental and vision plans are effective on the first day of employment
AUI’s retirement benefit contributes an amount equal to 10 percent of a qualified participant’s base pay with no required employee contribution
Optional supplemental, tax-deferred plan for employee retirement contributions
Company
National Radio Astronomy Observatory
The National Radio Astronomy Observatory is a facility of the National Science Foundation operated under cooperative agreement.
201-500 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Growth StageRecent News
2026-01-12
PhysOrg.com
2026-01-07
2025-08-02
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