LMT Research Engineer
Job Summary
Job Description
About UMass Amherst
UMass Amherst, the Commonwealth's flagship campus, is a nationally ranked public research university offering a full range of undergraduate, graduate and professional degrees. The University sits on nearly 1,450-acres in the scenic Pioneer Valley of Western Massachusetts, and offers a rich cultural environment in a bucolic setting close to major urban centers. In addition, the University is part of the Five Colleges (including Amherst College, Hampshire College, Mount Holyoke College, and Smith College), which adds to the intellectual energy of the region.
Job Summary
The LMT Research Engineer participates in building millimeter wavelength receivers in two laboratories at UMass, Amherst and maintains existing receivers at the Large Millimeter Telescope through travel to Mexico. The engineer will actively design and build new receiver components using unique micro-milling equipment, debug specialized microwave electronics, and design and construct one-of-a-kind cryogenic enclosures and equipment for receivers.
Essential Functions
Work on low temperature cryogenic engineering and fabrication. Perform cryogenic modeling and verification measurements.
Conduct computer aided mechanical design, drafting, fabrication, assembly, testing, and documentation of radio receivers, components, and optics.
Working with other lab personnel, assist in the maintenance of existing receivers at the LMT.
Maintain micro-milling system in the lab including system upgrades, and operation of the system including programming toolpaths to build new waveguide structures, feed horns, and mixer block assemblies as needed.
Work with other lab personnel to reorganize laboratory as needed to provide space and equipment support for research projects as they arise.
Work closely with project management staff and local machinists to produce unique fixtures, enclosures, and microwave equipment.
Mentor junior member(s), including graduate students in variety of laboratory tasks.
Other Functions
Work collaboratively and effectively to promote teamwork, diversity, equality and inclusiveness.
Work in partnership with colleagues within the CNS community and across the campus to support the Dean’s strategic priorities.
Perform other duties as assigned in support of the mission and goals of the College of Natural Sciences.
Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Education, Experience, Certifications, Licensure)
Bachelor's degree in physics, engineering, or related field.
At least 2 years of research laboratory or commercial experience with low-temperature cryogenics.
Ability to work at high altitude sites.
Working knowledge of thermodynamics, electronics, and optics.
Working knowledge of solid-state physics and material properties.
Working knowledge and proficiency in computer aided design.
Experience with data collection, validation, and analysis in a laboratory setting.
Experience with debugging of low voltage and 120V electronics.
Strong knowledge of laboratory safety practices including in the use of solvents and other wet chemicals.
Physical Demands/Working Conditions
Ability to work at high altitudes.
Climbing, lifting, bending, twisting, standing, balancing, carrying, pushing/pulling.
Work Schedule
Monday - Friday, 8:30 am - 5:00 pm.
Frequent travel to the high-altitude site in Mexico (every 4 - 6 weeks).
Salary Information
Level 28
Special Instructions to Applicants
Please submit a resume/CV, Cover Letter, and Diversity Statement (more information below) by February 5, 2021 to ensure priority consideration. Position may remain open until filled.
As part of a commitment to their own multicultural community, CNS seeks an individual with a demonstrated commitment to diversity and one who will understand and embrace university initiatives and aspirations. In addition to application materials above, candidates will need to submit a Statement of Contribution to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. The Diversity Statement should identify past experiences and future goals. These contributions may result from lived experiences, scholarships, and/or mentoring, teaching, and outreach activities.(https://www.cns.umass.edu/diversity-equity-inclusion)
UMass Amherst is committed to a policy of equal opportunity without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, age, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, disability, military status, or genetic information in employment, admission to and participation in academic programs, activities, and services, and the selection of vendors who provide services or products to the University. To fulfill that policy, UMass Amherst is further committed to a program of affirmative action to eliminate or mitigate artificial barriers and to increase opportunities for the recruitment and advancement of qualified minorities, women, persons with disabilities, and covered veterans. It is the policy of the UMass Amherst to comply with the applicable federal and state statutes, rules, and regulations concerning equal opportunity and affirmative action.