Research Technologist 1 - Sub-Orbital Rocket Lab

The Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics of The Pennsylvania State University has an immediate opening for a Research Technologist 1 to work in the Sub-Orbital Rocket Lab. In the Sub-Orbital Rocket Lab we design, build, and launch high-resolution soft X-ray spectrometers and a hire is needed to help with lab maintenance and building two new payloads. Our instruments use state-of-the-art X-ray gratings, manufactured at Penn State, that need to be tested for resolution performance in the Long Cell (an X-ray beamline in the Department of Astronomy). The person hired into this position will be expected perform the testing of these gratings.

The duties of the Research Technologist 1 include:

• Take X-ray resolution data from reflection gratings in the Long Cell
• Assist with the maintenance of the staging, cooling, and camera systems in the long cell
• Data collection using standard scientific practices
• Presenting results in written reports and orally
• Working in our main labs towards the integration of the gratings onto the sub-orbital rockets
• Characterization of grating performance when installed in instrument payloads

Required Experience

• One year of relevant experience
• Working in a lab environment
• Running experiments while taking detailed notes
• General tool usage

Desirable Experience

• Knowledge of CAD programs such as Solidworks
• Working on instrumentation
• Coding experience in Matlab/Python

Education: The Research Technologist 1 position typically requires a Bachelor's degree or higher, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Additional Information: U.S. Export Administration Regulations require that the successful applicant provide proof of employment eligibility under International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR, 22CFR120-130). Proof of employment eligibility requires documentation that you are a) a U.S. citizen; or b) a Resident Alien (i.e. green-card holder).

Applications must be submitted electronically and include a cover letter, a diversity statement, resume, and names and contact information for three professional references. Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled.

This is a limited-term appointment funded for one year from date of hire with the possibility of renewal.

Apply Online at: https://psu.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/PSU_Staff/job/University-Park-Campus/Research-Technologist-1---Department-of-Astronomy-and-Astrophysics_REQ_0000028540

The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and sustainability in all of its forms. We embrace individual uniqueness, foster a culture of inclusion that supports both broad and specific diversity initiatives, leverage the educational and institutional benefits of diversity in society and nature, and engage all individuals to help them thrive. We value inclusion as a core strength and an essential element of our public service mission.

To review the Annual Security Report which contains information about crime statistics and other safety and security matters and policies, please go to https://police.psu.edu/annual-security-reports, which will also explain how to request a paper copy of the Annual Security Report.

Penn State is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran