The National Solar Observatory (NSO) seeks an experienced Optical System Engineer to join the Advanced Technology Solar Telescope (ATST) Project Office in Tucson. The ATST Project is managed by the NSO, which is operated by the Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy, Inc., (AURA) under a cooperative agreement with the National Science Foundation. The project has entered the construction phase that will place the world’s largest solar observatory in operation in 2018.

An Optical System Engineer is sought to join the existing ATST Optics Group responsible for the design, procurement, and implementation of the major ATST optical systems.  These systems include the telescope optics, transfer optics, feed optics in the Coudé lab, and the wavefront correction system. This position will work in close collaboration with other ATST engineers to refine optical system designs by examining options and performing design tradeoffs based on manufacturability and performance. The Optical System Engineer will be responsible for assuring that the requisite overall ATST optical performance is met.  It is expected that the Optical System Engineer will participate in on-site integration, testing and commissioning, as well as transitioning the project into the operations phase.  Duties will include maintaining the overall optical design, working with other project personnel and vendors to complete system and component hardware designs, ensuring interface and performance requirements are met, and monitoring the delivered performance of the optical systems and adjusting the optical performance budget as required. Status of assignments and technical analysis will be documented by written reports and presentations to contractors, project personnel and funding agencies. This position will report to the ATST Optics Group Lead.  Domestic and international travel will be required.  Non-US citizen applicants must have, or qualify for, work visas allowing overseas travel.

The successful candidate will hold an appropriate degree or have equivalent work experience in astronomy, engineering, or a related discipline, and will have extensive experience in the specification, design and manufacture of optical instruments and systems.  Experience in the characterization, performance analysis, and verification of optical systems, and excellent communication skills are essential.  Knowledge of optical fabrication and test methods, and familiarity with optical ray tracing codes (Zemax expertise is a plus) is also required.  The ideal candidate will be highly motivated and able to work independently.  Experience in project management, contract monitoring, system integration and system testing is strongly preferred.  Prior experience with large aperture optical systems and telescopes would be a plus.

AURA Centers are an affirmative action and equal employment opportunity employer. Preference granted to qualified Native Americans living on or near the Tohono O'odham reservation.

We actively support efforts to broaden participation in all Observatory activities. Women and candidates from underrepresented minorities are particularly encouraged to apply.