Research Engineering Designer/Drafting II

req24169

Steward Observatory

Main Campus

Tucson, AZ USA

The University of Arizona's Department of Steward Observatory invites you to apply to the role of Research Engineering Designer/Drafter II. The Research Engineering Designer/Drafter II will apply known mechanical design and drafting theories and principles. They will be responsible for designing, detailing, and building mechanical systems that support research in ground-based and space-based astronomy. This includes designing, drawing, fabricating and implementing mechanical hardware to accomplish the goals of the principal investigator and their program. The Research Engineering Designer/Drafter II will have an understanding of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing, AutoCAD, Autodesk Inventor, and SolidWorks. This knowledge is required to support all projects at the University of Arizona.

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 our innovative work-life programs.

• This position develops and prepares project designs in the form of drawing sketches, preliminary and final manufacturing drawings, architectural plans, diagrams, schematics and/or large drawing layouts. These are used in ground-based and space-based instruments, telescopes, facilities and utilities, or in the fabrication, assembly, installation, modification, or repair of electronic, electrical, and/or mechanical equipment, components and systems.

Work is performed under supervision, and instructions are provided to prepare detailed drawings and design work. Works to tighter specifications, such as military specifications, where accuracy and precision are a requisite.

Prepares preliminary 3D models, drawings, and/or plans from initial project review meetings. This requires coordinating directly with engineers and project managers to understand project requirements, while working out details such as design and drafting time required, strength and cost of material, and amount of materials required for their portion of the project. The Research Engineering Designer/Drafter II then presents this information to the engineer and/or project manager for approval and/or modifications.

Performs field investigations, when applicable, of work site, to verify scope of project requirements and to perform on site measurements of the site itself, and/or existing parts, assemblies, or equipment that need to be repaired or modified.

• Assists in ongoing projects to standardize and unify design documentation standards by participating in meetings and preparing presentation materials as necessary.

This job posting reflects the general nature and level of work expected of the selected candidate(s). It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The institution reserves the right to amend or update this description as organizational priorities and institutional needs evolve.

Non-Exempt

Full Time

40

1

Fiscal

Research

Yes - Full Benefits

$25.50 - $31.88

hourly rate

7

The Rate of Pay Field represents the University of Arizona’s good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. The University considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, education/training, key skills, and internal equity.

The Grade Range represent a full range of career compensation growth over time. The university offers compensation growth opportunities within its career architecture. To learn more about compensation, please review our Applicant Compensation Guide and our Total Rewards Calculator.

OC2

Research Engineering

Research

Name-based criminal background check (non-security sensitive)

1

11/10/2025

Arturo Fern
afern@arizona.edu

10/13/2025

Yes

Resume and Cover Letter

In compliance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act (Clery Act), each year the University of Arizona releases an Annual Security Report (ASR) for each of the University’s campuses. These reports disclose information including Clery crime statistics for the previous three calendar years and policies, procedures, and programs the University uses to keep students and employees safe, including how to report crimes or other emergencies and resources for crime victims. As a campus with residential housing facilities, the Main Campus ASR also includes a combined Annual Fire Safety report with information on fire statistics and fire safety systems, policies, and procedures.
Paper copies of the Reports can be obtained by contacting the University Compliance Office at cleryact@arizona.edu.