R&D Engineering Manager III, Steward Observatory; Updated

R&D Engineering Manager III, Steward Observatory

Join at the University of Arizona to support the Arizona Radio Observatory (ARO) and Mountain Operations (Mtn Ops) groups of Steward Observatory. These groups advance research and instrumentation, and maintain optical and radio telescopes located at Kitt Peak, Mt. Graham, and the Santa Catalina Mountains.

Position Highlights

Please note:

This posting includes the physical requirements of the position. See the Duties & Responsibilities section for a detailed review.

Working closely with the Associate Director, the selected candidate will manage projects that employ engineering and technical support in telescope operation, instrument development, and related facilities. Technical work includes optics fabrication, telescope control systems, mirror support structures, instrumentation development, electrical and electromechanical systems, and various subsystems during development, fabrication, and operation.

This position requires broad knowledge and experience across multiple professional disciplines. The candidate will supervise a team of engineers and be responsible for performance evaluations.

Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more! The University of Arizona has been recognized for innovative work‑life programs.

• Manage technical projects to scope, schedule, budget, and risk on behalf of the Principal Investigator (PI). Prepare proposals, statements of work, and other documents in conjunction with PIs, the Business Office, and U of A Administration.
• Accountable for the strategic and operational direction of a large and complex technical organization within the department, with significant impact on short and mid‑term plans.
• Develop, implement, and maintain operational plans, programs, systems, and technical aspects of projects requiring high innovation, creativity, and integration.
• Coordinate, monitor, and/or supervise the activities of designated technical groups to ensure optimum efficiency, conservation of funds, and compliance with appropriate policies, procedures, and specifications.
• Develop and schedule work plans in accordance with specifications and funding limitations.
• Supervise a team of engineers, including providing training and direction to staff and evaluating performance.
• Additional duties as assigned.

• Technical literacy with the ability to plan and manage engineering projects.
• Excellent leadership, interpersonal, and supervisory skills, with the ability to mentor and manage engineers, foster cooperation, and encourage a collaborative working environment.
• Ability to manage multiple complex projects concurrently with minimal supervision.
• Ability to identify project risks, develop mitigation strategies, and drive risk resolution.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with attention to clarity and detail.
• Outstanding organizational, analytical, and problem‑solving capabilities.
• Ability to work with a wide range of people at all levels of the organization and with a variety of external stakeholders.
• Ability to work nights and weekends, including occasional overnight stays at telescope sites.
• Proficiency using Windows and Microsoft Office and familiarity with Linux.

• Ability to lift/transport up to 50 lbs and routinely climb stairs and ladders at altitude.
• Ability to work for extended periods of time at remote sites at elevations up to 11,000 feet.
• Ability to work in extreme mountain weather conditions.

• Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or equivalent discipline.
• Minimum of 7 years of related work experience, including 3 years of managerial experience, or equivalent combination of education and work experience.
• Must have a valid driver’s license and ability to drive according to the University Fleet Safety Policy.