Category: Mission Operations

Postdoc Positions in Lunar Dust Mitigation at UMD

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Category: , , ,
Country: USA
Contact Person: Christine Hartzell
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: University of Maryland
Application Due Date: Wednesday, November 01 2023
Web Link: https://ejobs.umd.edu/postings/112040

The Planetary Surfaces and Spacecraft Lab at the University of Maryland, College Park is hiring multiple postdoctoral researchers. We are looking for experimentalists with experience working with vacuum systems, plasma physics, and/or granular materials and an interest in developing technology to remove lunar regolith from spacesuits and solar panels. The goal of this project is to demonstrate the functionality of a specialized lunar “lint roller” that uses synthetic gecko skin to remove dust, rather than a traditional adhesive. Additionally, we will be developing a cleaning appliance to make the gecko roller reusable. One investigator will build and operationalize a new UHV chamber system and test the gecko roller at lunar-relevant pressures. Other investigators will design, build and test the efficacy of the cleaning appliance, which will rely on electrostatic lofting. The expected start date is Jan 2024 or earlier.

For questions, please contact Christine Hartzell, [email protected].

To apply, please submit a CV and cover letter to https://ejobs.umd.edu/postings/112040

Postdoctoral researcher, Mars rover science/operations and Mars data analysis

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Current state: Approved and Notify DPS Secretary
Department: Department of the Geophysical Sciences
City: Chicago
State/Province: IL
Category: , , , ,
Country: United States
Contact Person: Edwin Kite
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: University of Chicago
Application Due Date: Saturday, April 08 2023
Web Link: http://sseh.uchicago.edu

The University of Chicago’s Department of Geophysical Sciences seeks to hire a postdoctoral researcher to support Mars data analysis projects (a Mars Science Laboratory Participating Scientist grant on the timing and flow of surface and subsurface water at Gale crater, and a Mars Data Analysis Program grant on global and stratigraphic variations in sediment layer thicknesses on Mars). The successful candidate will work with Associate Professor Edwin Kite to take part in Mars Science Laboratory science and operations, and analyze existing HiRISE Digital Terrain Models. The balance between rover and orbiter work will be chosen according to the preferences of the successful candidate.

Candidates should have a background in planetary science. Experience with rover operations, and/or Mars orbiter data analysis, is preferred but not required. This is primarily a data analysis position and modeling skills are not required though would be a welcome bonus. A start date in mid-to-late-2023 is preferred. This postdoctoral position will be for one year and funding is secured for renewal for a second year, contingent on satisfactory progress. The position comes with a competitive salary and generous benefits.

Review of applications will begin on April 8, 2023. Please send a CV, a brief description of research interests, and a list of publications as a single PDF file to [email protected]. Applicants should send the names and email addresses of 2-3 referees to this email address. Please direct informal inquiries about this post to Edwin Kite ([email protected]).

The University of Chicago hosts a vibrant planets and exoplanets research program, with particular emphasis on Mars, planetary sample analysis, and habitability: https://geosci.uchicago.edu/research/planetary-sciences-and-cosmochemistry/

The University of Chicago is an Affirmative Action/EO/D/V Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, status as an individual with a disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University’s Notice of Nondiscrimination. The University’s Statements on Diversity are at https://provost.uchicago.edu/statements-diversity. UChicago seeks a diverse pool of applicants who wish to join an academic community that places the highest value on rigorous inquiry and encourages diverse perspectives, experiences, groups of individuals, and ideas to inform and stimulate intellectual challenge, engagement, and exchange. Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-834-3988 or email [email protected] with their request.

Postdoc in Mars Geology at the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum

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Current state: Approved and Notify DPS Secretary
Department: Center for Earth and Planetary Studies
City: Washington
State/Province: DC
Category: , ,
Country: USA
Contact Person: Sharon Purdy
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: Smithsonian Institution
Application Due Date: Friday, February 17 2023
Web Link: https://www.si.edu/content/ohr/SITrustVacs/SITRUST-23-NASM0201.pdf

JOB OPENING: POSTDOC IN MARS GEOLOGY/GEOMOPRHOLOGY AT THE SMITHSONIAN NATIONAL AIR AND SPACE MUSEUM 

The Smithsonian Institution, National Air and Space Museum (NASM), Center for Earth and Planetary Studies (CEPS) in Washington, DC welcomes applications for a postdoctoral position.

Research areas for the position include analysis of:

  1. Geologic mapping of Mars, including relevant data analysis, and drafting text and figures for peer-reviewed publications.
  2. Geomorphic and topographic analyses of fluvial landforms using Mars orbiter and rover data, including relatively young fluvial landforms on impact craters.
  3. Participation on the Science Operations Team for Mars Science Laboratory Curiosity rover; and field studies of Mars analog landforms.

Applicants must demonstrate experience in analysis of Earth or planetary datasets. A background in quantitative terrestrial or planetary geology and experience with geographic information systems analysis of imaging and topography are desired.

This is a full-time, 2-year position in Washington, DC with benefits. The Smithsonian Institution is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

More details and application process here: https://www.si.edu/content/ohr/SITrustVacs/SITRUST-23-NASM0201.pdf

Application deadline is 5pm (Eastern time) on February 17, 2023.

For questions, email Sharon Wilson Purdy ([email protected]) or Ross Irwin ([email protected]).

Assistant or Associate Professor, Planetary Geosciences

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Current state: Approved and Notify DPS Secretary
Department: Department of Geosciences
City: Auburn
State/Province: AL
Category: , , , ,
Country: United States
Institution: Auburn University
Application Due Date: Thursday, December 01 2022
Web Link: https://www.auemployment.com/postings/32497

Faculty Position

Planetary Geosciences

Auburn University

 

The Department of Geosciences at Auburn University invites applications for a Planetary Geosciences faculty position at the rank of tenure-track Assistant Professor or Associate Professor. The appointment would begin August 2023. Applicants must hold a Ph.D. in Geosciences (broadly defined) or in a closely related field at the time appointment begins. Post-doctoral experience is desirable. Specialties may include, but are not limited to, terrestrial analogue studies of planetary surface processes (e.g., impact cratering and volcanic processes), orbital and/or surface robotic mission-related geosciences (e.g., missions to the Moon and Mars), planetary mineralogy and petrology (including geochronology, e.g., study of meteorites and/or future returned samples), instrument science for planetary missions, planetary geophysics and climate dynamics, and related disciplines such as astrobiology. We seek a dynamic individual with strong research potential who can obtain external funding and can link their research program to existing department strengths in geochemistry, geochronology, geomorphology, tectonics, climate science, remote-sensing and GIS, and sedimentary geology. Auburn University supports multi-departmental research efforts in the Planetary Science area in both the College of Sciences and Mathematics and the College of Engineering. The successful candidate is expected to develop a vigorous, externally funded research program, publish scholarly work, and advise graduate and undergraduate students. The successful candidate will also participate in the educational mission through teaching new specialty courses in Planetary Geosciences as well in teaching existing courses at the undergraduate and graduate levels in Geosciences and in our interdisciplinary Earth System Science PhD degree program. Excellent written and interpersonal communication skills are necessary. The candidate selected for this position must meet eligibility requirements to work in the United States on the date the appointment is scheduled to begin (August 2023) and must be able to continue working legally for the proposed term of employment.

Applications must include the applicant’s curriculum vitae, copies of transcripts, and the names and contact information of three professional references, as well as up to 2 pages each for the cover letter/letter of application, the statement of research interests, the statement of teaching philosophy and interests, and the statement of inclusion. In the statement of inclusion, please describe how your experience and/or potential contributions in research, teaching, and service will advance our mission of creating a more diverse, equitable and inclusive workplace. The College of Sciences and Mathematics is committed to providing resources to enhance awareness and appreciation of cultural and individual diversity, promote community, and prepare students, faculty, and staff to have a global impact in STEM (http://www.auburn.edu/cosam/departments/diversity/index.htm). To apply please go to https://www.auemployment.com/postings/32497, complete the online form and upload the required application documents.

Applicants are encouraged to visit the AU website to learn more about Auburn University and Geosciences program http://www.auburn.edu/cosam/departments/geosciences/. Auburn University is understanding of and sensitive to the family needs of faculty, including dual-career couples. Please visit the following link for more information: http://www.auburn.edu/academic/provost/facultyjobs/. Review of applications will begin during December 1, 2022 and will continue until a candidate accepts appointment.

Auburn University is an EEO/Vet/Disability employer and committed to building a diverse and inclusive community.

ESA Research Fellowships in Space Science

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Current state: Approved and Notify DPS Secretary
Department: Science Directorate
City: Madrid
Category: , , , ,
Country: Spain
Contact Person: Yannis Zouganelis
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: European Space Agency (ESA)
Application Due Date: Monday, September 19 2022
Web Link: https://www.cosmos.esa.int/web/space-science-faculty/opportunities/research-fellowships

We are pleased to announce the 2022 Call for Applications for the European Space Agency’s Research Fellowships in Space Science. The call is opening on 22 August 2022 with an application deadline on 19 September 2022.

 

ESA’s postdoctoral Research Fellowship programme offers early-career scientists and engineers the possibility to carry out research in a variety of disciplines related to space science, space applications or space technology. Research Fellowships in Space Science & Exploration specifically offer the opportunity to contribute to ESA’s endeavour to explore our Solar System and the Universe, and cover the fields of human and robotic exploration, heliophysics, planetary science, astrophysics and fundamental physics. 

The research fellowships offer unique insights into ESA’s environment and activities while conducting cutting-edge research. Mentoring and training opportunities are available, as are possibilities to engage with ESA science-related activities (e.g., archive/data science, operations, calibration, communication, citizen science). 

Within the Science Directorate (SCI), we welcome all independent proposals for innovative research associated with one or more of our missions. The Space Science fellowships can be taken up at any of the three sites ESAC, ESTEC or STScI and we encourage applicants to choose sites that allow for best local collaborations. To learn more about the research conducted by  the ESA scientists at different sites, please visit the Faculty Member Directory and the pages for the Faculty research groups. There is a separate page for research at the ESA Office at STScI (see also the research of non-ESA scientists at STScI). 

Duration

ESA Research Fellow contracts have a maximum duration of three years. Projects initially last two years and are frequently extended to a third year.

Location

Research Fellowships in Space Science (SCI) can be located at any of the following institutes:

  • European Space Astronomy Centre (ESAC) in Villafranca del Castillo near Madrid, Spain
  • European Space Research and Technology Centre (ESTEC) in Noordwijk, the Netherlands
  • ESA office at Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI) in Baltimore, Maryland, USA

 

Who can apply

Applicants should have recently completed or be close to completing their PhD in a technical or scientific discipline. Preference will be given to candidates with up to five years of relevant experience after their PhD.

Applications can only be considered from national of one of the 22 ESA Member States. Nationals of Slovenia, Latvia and Lithuania as Associate Members, or Canada as a Cooperating State, can apply as well as those from Bulgaria, Cyprus and Slovakia as European Cooperating States (ECS).

More information on the Research Fellowship programme and on how to apply can be found at https://www.cosmos.esa.int/web/space-science-faculty/opportunities/research-fellowships 

 

What we offer 

A stimulating and inspiring working environment is just one of the benefits of working at ESA. Other advantages include competitive salaries, flexible working arrangements, and comprehensive health coverage. More information about the terms and conditions of ESA Research Fellowships can be found on our careers website.

ESA is an equal opportunity employer, committed to achieving diversity within the workforce and creating an inclusive working environment. For this purpose, we welcome applications from all qualified candidates irrespective of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, beliefs, age, disability, or other characteristics. Applications from female scientists are encouraged.

 

Deadline for applications is 19 September 2022.

Postdoc – Boston University – Radio occultations of plasma environments in the Jupiter system

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Current state: Approved and Notify DPS Secretary
Department: Center for Space Physics
City: Boston
State/Province: MA
Category: , ,
Country: USA
Contact Person: Paul WIthers
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: Boston University
Application Due Date: Saturday, October 01 2022

Postdoc – Boston University – Radio occultations of plasma environments in the Jupiter system
 
The Center for Space Physics at Boston University invites applications for a postdoctoral researcher position supervised by Professor Paul Withers. The research will involve (A) analysis and interpretation of radio occultation observations of Jupiter’s ionosphere by the Juno spacecraft and (B) planning for future radio occultations of Europa’s ionosphere by the Europa Clipper spacecraft. Depending on the candidate’s interests, analysis of existing observations of the various plasma environments in the Jupiter system may also be possible. Candidates should possess a PhD degree in a relevant field. Experience conducting research on planetary ionospheres or other plasma environments is desirable. The salary offered will be competitive and commensurate with experience. Funding is available for two years with the possibility of extension. The appointment is expected to begin as soon as possible after 1 January 2023. Please contact Paul Withers ([email protected]) for further information.

Applications should be sent by email to Paul Withers ([email protected]). The application should be submitted in PDF format and contain a curriculum vitae, statement of research interests, and contact information for three referees. Review of applications will begin on 1 October 2022. Women and underrepresented minorities are particularly encouraged to apply. Boston University is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.

Postdoctoral position in Mass Spectrometry of Lunar Volatiles

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Current state: Approved and Notify DPS Secretary
Department: Planetary Geology, Geophysics, and Geochemistry Laboratory
City: Greenbelt
State/Province: MD
Category: , , , ,
Country: United States
Contact Person: Barbara Cohen
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: NASA Goddard Space Flight Center
Application Due Date: Friday, July 01 2022
Web Link: https://www.zintellect.com/Opportunity/Details/0252-NPP-MAR22-GSFC-PlanetSci

Come work on the origin and provenance of lunar volatiles using the Peregrine Ion-Trap Mass Spectrometer (PITMS) on Astrobotic’s Peregrine Mission-1 and the Mass Spectrometer observing lunar operations (MSolo) on the VIPER mission. You will work on this research using a combination of modeling volatile sources and isotopic signatures, data analysis from these instruments, and collaborating with datasets from other instruments. You will gain hands-on experience by participating in the flight operation of these instruments to collect, analyze, and archive data. You will be expected to present results at appropriate conferences and in peer-reviewed publications. Key skill sets include data analysis, statistical analysis, mass spectrometry, and interest in / familiarity with volatile species in the solar system – but please contact me even if this doesn’t sound like you, yet! At Goddard we value the diverse talents and perspectives of every individual, which contributes to the success of Goddard’s mission.

Apply online at https://npp.orau.org/

Reference Code: 0252-NPP-MAR22-GSFC-PlanetSci

NPP application deadline is July 1, 2022

positions at Freie Universitaet Berlin for PLATO

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Current state: Approved and Notify DPS Secretary
City: Berlin
Category: , ,
Country: Germany
Contact Person: Prof. Dr. Heike Rauer
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: Freie Universitaet Berlin
Application Due Date: Monday, November 29 2021
Web Link: https://www.fu-berlin.de/universitaet/beruf-karriere/jobs/english/GW-WiMi_PLATO-PCOT_Planetologie-2021_EN.html

We announce 2 positions at the FU Berlin related to the PLATO Mission (PLAnetary Transits and Oscillations of stars), whose goal is the search and characterization of extrasolar planets, including Earth-like planets. The FU Berlin (Department of Geosciences/Planetary Sciences) cooperates with the Institute of Planetary Research of the German Aerospace Center e.V. (DLR) within the PLATO mission.

Position 1: Research assistant (Data Engineer) (f/m/d)
full-time job limited to 30.09.2024
Entgeltgruppe 13 TV-L FU
Reference code: WiMi_PLATO-PCOT_Planetologie 2021_EN
Deadline: 29.11.2021
Link:
https://www.fu-berlin.de/universitaet/beruf-karriere/jobs/english/GW-WiM…

The position announced is part of the work performed by the PLATO Mission Consortium (PMC) and will be performed in close cooperation with PMC partners in Berlin (Institut fur Planetenforschung des Deutschen Zentrums fur Luft- und Raumfahrt e.V.), other European PMC members and with ESA.
Applicants shall contribute to the work of the PLATO Calibration and Operations Team (PCOT) and take part in supporting the PLATO Data Center (PDC), the Science Operations Center (SOC) and other groups within the Science Ground Segment (SGS) concerning issues on design, requirements management, integration and verification of the PLATO On-ground data processing Calibration pipeline.

Job description:
Ground segment data processing engineering support to the PLATO Calibration and Operations Team (PCOT).
Responsibilities:
– Supporting the design and elicitation of requirements of the CPDS (Calibration Parameters Derivation System).
– Supporting definition of the calibration products derived from the CPDS.
– Interface with the Data Processing System (DPS) for the provision of the on-board science configuration parameters via CPDS.

– Interface with PDC for the provision of calibration parameters used for instrumental corrections on the L1
ground-processing pipeline.
– Supporting implementation of CPDS interfaces with the rest of the Ground Data Processing (GDP) subsystems.
– Supporting the CPDS verification and overall GDP verification.
– Supporting the PCOT Manager (PCOTM) with the elaboration of Calibration and Operations plans and P/L User
Manual.

Requirements:
– A Master degree in engineering or physics

(Professional) Experience:
– Professional experience in a scientific or technical environment.

Desirable:
– Experience in optical payload operations and associated software systems is highly desirable.
– Experience in Agile and/or DevOps methodologies and DevOps would be a further asset.
– Experience in ground processing pipelines for space instruments (preferably optical payload).
– Understanding of development and maintenance of ground infrastructure and/or software systems.
– Knowledge of large operations and associated software systems, preferably space-based high motivation,
ability to work independently as well as part of a team, excellent communication skills.

– very good written and spoken English language competences
– good programming skills
– good documentation skills

Practical information

Applications should be sent by e-mail, together with significant documents, indicating the reference code
(WiMi_PLATO-PCOT_Planetologie 2021_EN), in PDF format (preferably as one document) to Mrs. Prof. Dr. Heike
Rauer: [email protected]<https://www.fu-berlin.de/universitaet/beruf-karriere/jobs/english/GW-WiM…

Position 2: Research assistant (physicist, astronomer, astrophysicist, engineer) (f/m/d) full-time job limited
to 30.09.2024 Entgeltgruppe 13 TV-L FU Reference code: WiMi_PLATO-PPT_Planetologie 2021
full-time job limited to 30.09.2024
Entgeltgruppe 13 TV-L FU
Reference code: WiMi_PLATO-PPT_Planetologie 2021
Deadline: 29.11.2021
Link:
https://www.fu-berlin.de/universitaet/beruf-karriere/jobs/english/GW-WiM…
Applicants shall contribute to the work of the PLATO Performance Team (PPT) in the topics detailed below,
including the use of simulation tools to support science performance verification activities, the contribution to discussions in the PLATO Consortium (in particular PLATO Science Working Team; PLATO System Assembly, Integration, and Verification Working Group; Mission System Engineering Working Group; PLATO Progress Meetings, PLATO Weeks), and support the Performance Team activities: on the validation of the science performance requirements and budgets, on the review of the verification of ground segment requirements related to science performance, on the scientific definition and justification of the procedures for in-orbit calibration for aspects related to science performance, on the assessment and discussion of non-conformances with impact of science performance.

Job description:
Support to PLATO Science Performance Verification.
Responsibilities:
* Definition and justification of the main performance requirements and budgets driving the payload design (noise and signal, pointing, focus, alignment, thermo-mechanical properties…).
* Review of the verification requirements of the units for aspects related to science performance.
* Support of the analysis of the calibration data obtained by the test houses in aspects related to science performance (best focus calibration, etc.).

* Support of the definition and justification of the procedures for the in-orbit calibration of the instrument
in aspects related to science performance.
* Support of ground segment validation for aspects related to science performance.
* Support of the discussion of all non-compliances, request for change (RfC), request for deviation (RfD), and
request for waiver (RfW) in the project (Camera, DPS, or mission) with impact on science performance.

Requirements:
* A Master in engineering or physics.

(Professional) Experience:
* Professional experience in a scientific or technical environment.

Desirable:
* Good programming and documentation skills.
* Experience in optical payload assembly, integration, and test, in particular in the analysis of the results.
* Experience in the development and implementation of ground processing pipelines for space instruments
(preferably optical payloads).
* Experience in extrasolar planet search and characterization by the method of transits.
* Experience in astroseismology from space.
* For candidates with scientist profile, good publication record.
* High motivation, ability to work independently as well as part of a large international team, excellent
communication skills, interest in education and public outreach.

* Very good written and spoken English language competences.

Practical information

Applications should be sent by e-mail, together with significant documents, indicating the reference code
(WiMi_PLATO-PPT_Planetologie 2021), in PDF format (preferably as one document) to Mrs. Prof. Dr. Heike Rauer:
[email protected]<https://www.fu-berlin.de/universitaet/beruf-karriere/jobs/english/GW-WiM…

Postdoctoral Researcher

Posted on
Current state: Approved and Notify DPS Secretary
City: Houston
State/Province: TX
Category: , , ,
Country: USA
Contact Person: German Martinez
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: Lunar and Planetary Institute / USRA
Application Due Date: Monday, March 15 2021
Web Link: https://workforcenow.adp.com/mascsr/default/mdf/recruitment/recruitment.html?cid=f03960f2-20cd-4828-9ae5-415eefc7072e&ccId=19000101_000001&jobId=371641&lang=en_US&source=TW&fbclid=IwAR3yTLEvGDjb536fIEmekDQpjdxnIGvwSh7w2XT3lXE6xhYOvAkP_w9Dos0

The Lunar and Planetary Institute (LPI) in Houston, TX, run by the Universities Space Research Association (USRA), invites applications for a Postdoctoral Fellow in Radiative Transfer Modeling in Planetary Atmospheres. 

The selected candidate will join Dr. Germán Martínez’ group on the Mars Environmental Dynamics Analyzer (MEDA) science team of NASA’s Mars 2020 mission, and will lead analyses of measurements made by the Thermal Infrared Sensor (TIRS), one of the six environmental sensors comprising MEDA. TIRS is the first in situ Martian infrared radiometer including upward- and downward-looking channels, and it will measure the upward and downward thermal infrared radiation at the surface, the reflected solar radiation at the surface, the surface brightness temperature, and the near-surface vertical temperature profile. To gain a broader insight into space missions and to expand their network, the selected candidate will participate in operations planning for the MEDA instrument, as well as in weekly science meetings with members from other instruments. To enrich their background in preparation for the next working stage, the selected candidate will be encouraged to propose for external funding and participate in NASA grant review panels. Moreover, the selected candidate is expected to contribute to public engagement events at the LPI.

Applicants should have a recent Ph.D. in Planetary Science, Physics, or a related field. The selected candidate will contribute to the development of a numerical model capable of spectrally simulating longwave radiation fluxes at the Martian surface to maximize the scientific return of TIRS’ measurements, in particular of the downward thermal infrared radiation at the surface (i.e., the atmospheric thermal forcing). The selected candidate will lead their own investigations, as well as collaborate with others within Dr. Martínez’ group. Required expertise includes proficiency in a common radiative-transfer programming language (e.g., IDL, MATLAB, Fortran), and a publication record in relevant or similar studies. Previous experience with Mars-related research is preferred, but not required. 

The position is for two years with a possible one-year extension. 

Interested applicants should apply to the posting at https://www.usra.edu/careers; application material submitted outside of this platform will not be considered. The required application material includes: (1) cover letter evidencing the qualifications of the applicant to this position, (2) curriculum vitae with list of publications, (3) two- to three-page statement of research interests and plans describing the candidate’s expected independent research program at the LPI, and (4) list of at least three professional references. Application material should be uploaded as a single document. Review of candidates will begin immediately; however, applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Questions can be addressed to Dr. Germán Martínez ([email protected]).

Regards,

Germán

Engineer – Optical Alignment

Posted on
Current state: Approved
City: Logan
State/Province: UT
Category:
Country: United States
Contact Person: Mickelle Anderson
Contact Email: [email protected]
Institution: Utah State University Space Dynamics Laboratory
Application Due Date: Thursday, December 31 2020
Web Link: https://jobs.sdl.usu.edu/usurf-jobs/employment/position-details?job_position_id=10426

The Space Dynamics Laboratory (SDL) is seeking an optical alignment engineer to augment our engineering teams in the development of space sensor systems operating in the ultra-violet to far-infrared. The selected candidate should have expertise in electro-optical systems and demonstrate a broad understanding of the design, development, test, and fielding of complex space electro-optical systems.

 

 SDL, a University Affiliated Research Center, has been developing innovative technologies and solutions for cutting-edge DoD and intelligence programs for almost six decades. Our expertise is in space and airborne IR, VIS, UV, and RF sensors, small satellite technologies, test and calibration, cybersecurity, data visualization and assurance, and ground stations.

 

Key Responsibilities:

· Subject matter expert in optical alignment and optical alignment tools and methods

· Mentoring optical engineers in alignment methods, error budgets, error analysis and tools

· Conducting trade studies and engineering analyses of optical alignment and tests for optical instruments

· Vendor sub-contract management including lens/mirror fabrication and optical coatings

· Investigating and advising on the feasibility of new projects

· Working closely with other engineers encompassing a broad range of disciplines (mechanical, electrical, systems, contamination, calibration, and quality)

· Identify and recommend new alignment methods, tools, and appropriate training to increase SDL’s capabilities

· Other responsibilities related to the qualifications described below

Required Qualifications:

· BS in an appropriate field (i.e. Optical Sciences, Electrical Engineering, Physics)

· Experience with optical instruments and associated customers

· Experience supporting optical design with alignment and manufacturing error budgeting methods, theories, and research techniques in the investigation and solutions of electro optical problems

· Experience with optical alignment of UV/EO/IR imaging, non-imaging, and LASER systems including all optical elements (mirrors, lenses, filters, gratings, baffles, stops and detectors)

· Experience with optical test including WFE, line of site alignment, position, spot size, focus, and vignetting

· Experience with optical element inspection including WFE and focal length

· Experience with optical element cleaning and handling

· Experience writing alignment planning/procedures

· Experience supporting system level testing and verification 

· Experience with interferometers, laser trackers, and theodolites

· Knowledge of thermal, mechanical, and space environment effects of optical systems

· A track record of successful collaborations with teams of engineers

· Demonstrated proficiency communicating clearly with personnel of varying technical and professional backgrounds

· Proven proficiency as a creative thinker and problem-solver

· Must be a US citizen

· Willing to travel to support programs

 

Preferred Qualifications:

· 5+ years of experience in electro-optical system design and analysis

· Experience with optical element inspection including index of refraction, surface roughness, BRDF, Reflectance, Scratch/Dig, and contamination

· Experience with LASER testing including profile, beam waste, divergence, beam quality, and irradiance profile

· Experience managing vendor sub-contracts including lens/mirror fabrication and optical coatings

· Experience with design, analysis, and calibration of optical instruments

· Experience with CMMs, gauges, micrometers, and other mechanical inspection tools

· Experience using Zemax, CODE V, FRED, or other optical design software

· Electro optical system performance data processing

· Experience with the following:

    o Space optical systems

    o Optical alignment & metrology with interferometers, laser trackers, and theodolites

    o Optical component tolerancing, specifying, and external vendor fabrication management

    o Writing technical reports, presentations, plans, and procedures

    o Working closely with customers

    o Leading small technical teams

 

SDL Benefits:

At SDL, we take pride in and highly value our employees. SDL offers competitive salaries and a fantastic benefits package, including:

· Flexible work schedules

· Generous annual, sick, and holiday paid leave

· A variety of inexpensive-premium, high-quality health, dental, vision, and life insurance options

· Generous employer retirement contribution (Up to 14.2% of annual gross earnings)

· Discounted USU tuition of 50% for employees and dependents

· Access to USU facilities and USU staff privileges

 

Instructions to applicants:

Along with the online application, please attach:

1) Cover Letter

2) Resume

 

Once you’ve complete the initial application, you will receive an e-mail requesting you to complete a video digital interview. For more information, please visit: https://hirevue.secure.force.com/E2Candidate/?lang=en_US

 

Please contact us if you do not receive a confirmation email within 24 hours of applying.

 

AA/EOE