Jobs in Livermore, CA

About the role

We have an opening for a Postdoctoral Researcher in precision optomechanical engineering for space applications. You will contribute to cutting edge research focused on developing the next generation of large aperture space telescopes and optical payloads, with an emphasis on precision mechanisms, optomechanical design, and integration of optical systems into spacecraft. This position is in the Advanced Space Development group in the National Security Engineering Division, within the Engineering Directorate. This position requires full-time on site presence due to the nature of the work. This is the lowest to highest salary we in good faith believe we would pay for this role at the time of this posting; pay will not be below any applicable local minimum wage.  An employee’s position within the salary range will be based on several factors including, but not limited to, specific competencies, relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, seniority, geographic location, performance, and business or organizational needs. This is a Postdoctoral appointment with the possibility of extension to a maximum of three years, open to those who have been awarded a PhD at time of hire date. This position requires a Department of Energy (DOE) Q-level clearance.  If you are selected, we will initiate a Federal background investigation to determine if you meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information or matter. Also, all L or Q cleared employees are subject to random drug testing.  Q-level clearance requires U.S. citizenship.

What you'll bring

• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. DOE Q level security clearance, which requires U.S. citizenship.
• PhD in mechanical engineering, optical engineering, aerospace engineering, applied physics, or a related discipline.
• Demonstrated experience in precision mechanical design, including mechanisms, kinematic or quasi kinematic mounts, alignment features, and tightly toleranced assemblies.
• Experience in optomechanical design for optical instruments, telescopes, or imaging systems, including coupling mechanical and optical performance requirements.
• Hands on experience with structural and thermal analysis tools (for example, ANSYS, NASTRAN, Abaqus or equivalent) for predicting deformation, vibration, and stability of precision assemblies.
• Experience applying precision engineering methods such as error budgeting, tolerance analysis, thermal stability analysis, and metrology planning to mechanical or optomechanical systems.
• Ability to perform independent and original research and to communicate findings through journal publications and presentations at seminars and scientific meetings.
• Proficient verbal and written communication skills, and demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively in a multidisciplinary team environment.
• Ability to travel.
• Experience designing space based optical systems or space telescopes, including understanding of launch loads, on orbit environments, and spacecraft integration constraints.
• Experience with the integration and test of optical and optomechanical hardware, including alignment techniques, optical metrology, and environmental testing (vibration, thermal vacuum).
• Demonstrated understanding of thermomechanical behavior of precision mechanisms and optical structures in harsh environments, including microgravity and thermal extremes.

Benefits