Ground Rotation Sensor Mechanical Engineer

Ground Rotation Sensor Mechanical Engineer

Job no: 521170

Work type: Full Time

Location: Crawley

Categories: Research Support, Technical/Laboratory Support, Trades & Services

Be part of an ARC-funded project shaping the future of seismic and gravitational wave sensing.

Lead the fabrication of precision instruments and share the potential IP of the final manufactured rotation sensor.

Full-time appointment on a fixed term basis for 2 years.

Base salary range: $95,231 – $100,643 p.a. plus 17% superannuation.

The Department of Physics is a research focused department with a strong commitment to quality teaching at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. While our core business is fundamental research, we have also successfully translated the results of research into the development of new technologies for the benefit of humankind.

The University of Western Australia (UWA) node of the Australian Research Council (ARC) Centre of Excellence in Gravitational Wave Discovery (OzGrav) focuses its research on developing advanced techniques for current and future gravitational wave detectors, as well as instrumentation development in airborne survey and seismology. We operate the High Optical Power Facility with 80m suspended optical cavities and a large seismic array at Gingin Gravity Precinct, an off-campus facility.

Funded by an ARC Discovery Project grant, the initiative aims to develop an operational rotation sensor to advance gravitational-wave detection and precision seismic sensing.

Seeks a skilled and creative engineer to help transition lab-based prototypes into robust, engineered instruments, working closely with physicists and engineers at the University of Western Australia.

The successful applicant will contribute to fabrication and iterative design, with potential IP sharing and applications across various seismic fields, including earthquake and lunar seismology, with prospects for a sustainable business.

Relevant Engineering degree or demonstrated equivalent competency.

Proficient in CAD design using Solid Edge or SolidWorks; experience with EDM machining, seismic sensors, and system integration is desirable.

Strong written and verbal communication skills, with excellent organizational abilities to manage priorities and meet deadlines.

Demonstrated ability to work independently, take initiative, solve problems, and collaborate effectively within a team.

Experience in project management is desirable, contributing to efficient planning and execution of engineering tasks.

The role may involve occasional travel (including interstate, international, and to the Gingin High Optical Power facility), some after-hours work, and requires physical capability for the position; a current class driver's licence is preferred.

To learn more about this opportunity, please contact Li Ju at li.ju@uwa.edu.au.

Please apply online via the Apply Now button. The content of your Resume and Cover Letter should demonstrate how you meet the selection criteria.

Closing date: 11:55 PM AWST on Sunday, 5 October 2025

This position is only open to applicants with relevant rights to work in Australia.

The University of Western Australia (UWA) is ranked among the top 100 universities in the world and a member of the prestigious Australian Group of Eight research intensive universities. With a strong research track record, vibrant campus and working environments, there is no better time to join Western Australia's top university.

UWA is committed to a diverse workforce and an equitable and inclusive workplace. We are committed to fostering a safe environment for all, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, women, those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, the LGBTIQA+ community, and people living with disability.

If you require any reasonable adjustments, we encourage you to advise us at the time of application. Alternatively, you can contact us for assistance during the recruitment process.