The MIT Kavli Institute (MKI) for Astrophysics and Space Research is a world-leading institution for research in astrophysics. Since its establishment in 1963 as the MIT Center for Space Research, MKI has cultivated a half-century of expertise deploying advanced engineering and technologies to support the scholarly inquiry of MIT’s faculty, research and technical staff, and student body. MKI has provided optical/near-IR imaging and spectroscopic instrumentation for the Magellan 6.5m telescopes and the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS), as well as spectroscopic imaging X-ray instruments for the Chandra X-ray Observatory and the ASCA, HETE-II and Suzaku satellites. Several of its research groups are currently developing or planning ambitious future instruments for use on the ground or in space on platforms ranging in size from 1m to 25m optical telescopes on the ground and from sounding rockets to large NASA observatories in space.
MKI seeks a Mechanical Engineer to play a major role in developing new technology and instrumentation for ground- and space-based astrophysical research. Depending upon the assignment, the work may include developing/overseeing mechanical designs from concept through fabrication and test, including development of associated 2D and 3D drawings and models for scientific instruments for ground-based optical/IR telescopes, sounding rockets, or satellites, complying as appropriate with NASA space-flight design and mission assurance requirements; developing mechanical requirements, specifications, and interface control documents; estimating design and fabrication time/cost for project planning; developing/conducting system- and component-level environmental testing (vibration, thermal vacuum, etc.); developing laboratory and ground support mechanical and vacuum systems; and overseeing technicians and machinists. Occasional travel, including international travel, can be expected. Visa sponsorship through MIT is not available for this position.
REQUIRED: a B.S. in a mechanical or aerospace engineering or a closely related discipline, four years of mechanical design experience in ground-based precision optical or space-based scientific instrumentation, and excellent verbal and written communication skills. PREFERRED: M.S. degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering or a closely related discipline; experience with structural/finite element analysis and/or thermal modeling (e.g., with Thermal Desktop) and/or experience in engineering development in coordination with related engineering specialists; and experience in a research environment.
MIT is an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, ancestry, or national or ethnic origin. MIT’s full policy on Nondiscrimination can be found here.
Employment is contingent upon the completion of a satisfactory background check, including verifying any finding of misconduct (or pending investigation) from prior employers. |
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