COPY - Chief Engineer/sr Polishing Engineer

Optical Metrology Engineer

This role supports Steward Observatory's mission to enable cutting-edge discoveries in astronomy and astrophysics by leading the development, implementation, and validation of high-performance optical surface figure metrology for some of the world's largest ground- and space-based telescopes.

The individual will serve as the technical authority for mirror surface metrology, guiding system design, validating performance, supervising engineers, and ensuring mirror production meets extremely stringent optical requirements for flagship astronomy programs.

Key responsibilities include:

• Design and implement surface figure evaluation strategies during mirror production
• Lead the design, installation, and validation of large-scale optical metrology systems
• Guide mechanical, electrical, and software engineers on metrology system integration
• Supervise three optical/metrology engineers
• Write, review, and approve technical procedures, reports, and complex MATLAB/Zemax analysis code
• Advise principal investigators, administrators, and sponsors on metrology limits, data reliability, and technical solutions
• Serve as the technical authority for measurement accuracy and error analysis

Skills and requirements:

• 10+ years of experience in optical fabrication and testing
• Expert-level MATLAB experience
• Expert knowledge of Zemax optical modeling and ray tracing
• Deep expertise in interferometry and deflectometry
• Extensive experience with surface figure metrology for large telescope mirrors
• Nice to have: PhD in Optical Sciences or Physics with an Optics emphasis
• Demonstrated ability to develop novel solutions to unprecedented, high-complexity technical challenges
• Experience from parallel or adjacent industries (flexibility here if needed)

Education:

• Master's degree in Physics or Engineering (required)
• PhD in Optical Sciences or Physics (Optics emphasis) preferred
• No specific certifications required