Position Title: Mechanical Engineer, Ld

Employee Classification: Engineer,Ld

College/Division: Arts and Sciences College

Department: 330300-ASTRONOMY

Internal or External Search: External - Open to all applicants

Location: Remote

Offsite Location (if applicable): Sunspot, NM

Target Hourly/Salary Rate:  Commensurate with qualifications.

Appointment Full-time Equivalency:  1.0

Exempt or Non-Exempt:  Exempt

Summary:  The Department of Astronomy at New Mexico State University, a research-focused academic unit dedicated to excellence in education and discovery, invites you to apply for an available position at Apache Point Observatory located in Sunspot, New Mexico.

Classification Summary:
Under general direction, performs an assortment of complex engineering duties such as the planning of manufacturing and the installation, operation, and maintenance of electrical apparatus. Provides support to activities in the use of electrical devices and energy for commercial, domestic, and industrial use. Works directly with engineers in other disciplines to augment production size and value. This is the highest level non-management position.

Classification Standard Duties:
Carries out feasibility studies for new technical innovations. Draws up plans and specifications for complex projects, using computer-assisted engineering and design software. Estimates material, construction, and labor costs, and project timescales. May act as internal consultant providing technical guidance on most complex projects.Instructs, directs , checks and coordinates the work of other electrical engineers, technicians, and craftspeople. May provide work leadership and training to lower level professional and technical staff. Tests installations and systems, and analyzes data making sure projects meet electrical and construction safety regulations. Oversees large inspection and maintenance programs. May lead project meetings, writes reports and gives presentations to managers and clients.Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

Required Education, Experience, Certification/License, Equivalency
Required Education:Bachelor's degree in Engineering.; Required Experience:Eight (8) years of professional experience directly related to the standard duties as outlined.; Equivalency:None; Required Certification/License:

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
KNOWLEDGE:Knowledge and understanding of principles, procedures, regulations, and standards applicable to the job. A comprehensive understanding of electrical health and safety regulations. Understanding of the University's mission, vision and goals.; SKILLS:Excellent communication skills. Excellent math, science, technology and IT skills. Excellent team-working and people skills. Good budgetary skills. Strong decision-making skills.; ABILITIES:The ability to analyze complex problems and assess possible solutions. The ability to explain design ideas clearly. The ability to prioritize and plan effectively.

Job Duties and Responsibilities
Responsible for the maintenance and operations of the ARC 3.5m telescope facilities, instruments, and leads the 3.5 engineering team operations. Provide daily engineering support of telescope and instrument operations, including maintenance, repairs, and troubleshooting to ensure optimal performance. Develops and maintains operating procedures and maintenance schedules. Plans and coordinates maintenance work. Supervise, direct, and evaluate work of assigned staff. Design, generate contracts for fabrication, and conduct installation and testing of various electro-, opts-mechanical systems for complex telescope systems, including interfaces and scientific instruments. Perform preventive and corrective maintenance to systems, as necessary, and ensure safety and integrity. Monitor trends and correct anomalies. Perform troubleshooting and problem analysis. Specify procedures, schedule, spare lists for maintenance and repair of telescope systems. Report activities and progress related to telescope systems engineering to Site Operations Manager. Specify, procure, maintain specialized mechanical, electronics, and optical test and maintenance equipment. Develop an annual plan and budget for telescope systems engineering activities and projects.

Preferred Qualifications

Special Requirements of the Position

Department Contact:  William Ketzeback, 575-437-6822, bketzeba@nmsu.edu

Contingent Upon Funding: Contingent upon external funding

Bargaining Unit Eligibility: This is NOT a bargaining unit position with American Federation of State, County & Municipal Employees (AFSCME).

Standard Work Schedule: Shift: Other Shift

If Not a Standard Work Schedule: Monday – Sunday 8pm to 6am, night shift, afternoons, weekends or holidays may be required

Working Conditions and Physical Effort

Environment: Work involves moderate exposure to unusual elements, such as extreme temperatures, dirt, dust, fumes, smoke, unpleasant odors, and/or loud noises.

Physical Effort: Moderate physical activity.

Lifting Requirements: Requires handling of average-weight objects up to 25 pounds or standing and/or walking for more than four (4) hours per day.

Risk: Work environment involves some exposure to hazards or physical risks, which require following basic safety precautions.