Electrical Engineer

About the role

The Electrical Systems Engineer supports operations at Kitt Peak National Observatory, focusing on the Mayall 4-meter Telescope's electrical infrastructure. Key responsibilities include assessing, maintaining, and improving the telescope's power systems, developing backup power strategies, and managing external contractors.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate and update the current electrical power infrastructure, including medium- and low-voltage distribution systems.
• Maintain accurate documentation and schematics reflecting as-built conditions and system modifications.
• Develop and implement upgrades and improvements to ensure stable, high-quality power delivery to telescope and facility systems.
• Lead the design, specification, and integration of backup power systems for critical operational continuity.
• Monitor performance, reliability, and load characteristics of generators, UPS systems, switchgear, panels, and distribution systems.
• Analyze power quality issues and implement mitigation strategies.
• Develop preventive maintenance strategies and long-term infrastructure reliability plans.
• Prepare technical documentation, system drawings, reports, and upgrade plans.
• Manage and oversee external electrical contractors, serving as the technical representative for NOIRLab.
• Ensure compliance with applicable electrical codes and safety regulations, including NEC and relevant state and federal standards.
• Collaborate with telescope engineering, facilities, safety, and operations teams to minimize operational impact during maintenance and upgrades.
• Participate in on-site troubleshooting of complex electrical issues requiring engineering-level expertise.
• Provide electrical engineering support to other telescopes and facilities at Kitt Peak National Observatory as required.
• Contribute to long-term strategic infrastructure planning for Kitt Peak facilities.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or related field.
• Minimum of 7–10 years of professional experience in design, operation, and maintenance of industrial or mission-critical electrical systems.
• Demonstrated experience with generator systems, UPS systems, power distribution systems, and switchgear.
• Experience assessing and upgrading legacy electrical infrastructure.
• Knowledge of the National Electrical Code (NEC) and applicable safety standards.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and documentation skills.
• Proficiency with electrical design and documentation tools (e.g., EPLan, AutoCAD or equivalent) and Microsoft Office applications.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience supporting scientific, research, or mission-critical facilities.
• Experience with high-reliability infrastructure in remote or mountaintop environments.
• Professional Engineer (PE) license.
• Familiarity with SCADA or power monitoring systems.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Must be able to remain in a stationary position at least 50% of the time. Occasional need to move about inside the office environment to access files, office tools, attend meetings, etc. Constantly operates a computer and other office productivity tools that require fine motor skills, such as a calculator, copy machine, computer printer, etc. May occasionally need to position self to maintain computer and related tools. Seldomly needed to move objects up to 10 pounds. Constant communication with other individuals. Must be able to discern and exchange information as appropriate to the situation. Constant need to distinguish, discern, and identify a variety of objects and fine details with accuracy. Occasional work at high elevation summit sites may be required (summit elevations range from 6,800 feet to 14,000 feet).

Work Environment

This position operates in a professional office environment and routinely utilizes standard office equipment, including computers, phones, and copiers. The work environment is generally quiet and may involve working in close proximity to others, depending on the needs of the specific function.

Transportation

Transportation between Tucson and the Kitt Peak summit is provided.

How to Apply

Apply by April 28, 2026 for priority consideration. This position will remain open until it is filled. Please submit a cover letter and a CV or resume, PDF files preferred. Please name any attachments with the following format: Lastname Docname. Individuals needing assistance with the employment process can request assistance here.