The High Altitude Observatory (HAO) at the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) in scenic Boulder, Colorado, seeks an individual to perform systems engineering design and development of a broad range of optical instrumentation to support solar and earth upper atmospheric scientific research, with an emphasis on systems with larger optics (0.2-1.5 m). Application of additional broad science and engineering skills, including optical, mechanical, electrical and software engineering design is desirable. Systems Engineering is a discipline that concentrates on the design and application of the whole system as distinct from the parts. It involves looking at a problem in its entirety, taking into account all the facets and all the variables.
As part of a small team of scientists and engineers, designs, builds, tests, delivers and supports instruments for ground-based and balloon-based observation of earth’s upper atmospheric and solar phenomena. Instruments include but are not limited to spectro-polarimeters, coronagraphs, polarimeters, Fabry-Perot Interferometers, photometers, telescopes, spectrographs and high altitude balloon equipment, and range in aperture size from 0.2 to 1.5m. The instruments are typically used for the measurement of magnetic fields in the solar corona, measurement of the polarized brightness of the solar white light corona, measurement of emission lines from the solar chromosphere and prominences and for magnetospheric and thermospheric measurements.
Works with scientists, engineers, project managers, customers, vendors, end users and other stakeholders to identify, develop and translate science instrumentation goals and requirements into system requirements and specifications. Creates detailed optical component designs and specifications for all system optical elements, including but not limited to lens elements, filters, prisms, windows, gratings, Fabry-Perot elements, coatings and cameras.
Develops detailed instrument alignment methodology and develops alignment tooling as needed. Works with engineers and technicians directly and participate in hands-on instrumentation fabrication, assembly, test, deployment, operations and maintenance. Develops and documents detailed test plans and procedures based on engineering specifications and requirements verification and validation matrices.
Requires Bachelor's degree in Engineering; and at least six years of engineering experience; or Master's degree in Engineering; and at least four years of experience; or Ph.D. degree and at least two years of experience; or equivalent. Must have systems engineering knowledge and experience and strong technical ability to articulate problems and formulate alternative solutions to engineering problems. Requires ability to develop instruments and systems which are recognized and respected as leaders in their field. Must have broad optical engineering background, with significant experience in geometrical and physical optics, radiometry, polarimetry, straylight and scattering analysis using tools like Zemax and practical hands on experience.
Must have extensive understanding of a wide range of current engineering technologies including software, electrical and mechanical disciplines and the ability to work as an effective member of a team of scientists and engineers and an advanced capability to conduct engineering instrumentation design working in an independent manner as necessary.
Requires excellent written and oral communication skills, with a proven ability to communicate effectively with PI’s, scientific staff and fellow engineers and an ability to author technical documents and publications. Must have experience and proven ability in writing scientific instrumentation proposals and in successfully publishing engineering results. Must be able and willing to travel. Must be able to work at 11,000 feet elevation and to lift 50 pounds.
This is a term position through 1/31/2015 with possibility of extension. Partial relocation costs paid per UCAR’s relocation policy. View detailed job description at https://ucarcareers.silkroad.com/. Initial consideration will be given to applications received prior to 11/30/2012. Thereafter, applications will be reviewed on an as-needed basis. Apply online (reference tracking code #12209). We value diversity. AA/EOE
