Trade Maintenance Mechanic II, Steward Observatory (Safford)

Steward Observatory is both a century-old observatory on the University of Arizona campus and one of the University's oldest research units. Founded in 1918, the Observatory brings together students, staff, faculty, engineers, and technicians to explore the universe and share discoveries through world-class research, education, and outreach. With more than 180 professionals supporting advanced facilities, laboratories, and observatories, Steward Observatory offers a collaborative environment where technical expertise plays a critical role in advancing ground- and space-based astronomy.

The Department of Steward Observatory seeks to fill the position of Trades Maintenance Mechanic II to work at the Mount Graham International Observatory (MGIO), located in Safford, Arizona. The selected candidate will operate and maintain heavy equipment, drive semi-trucks to and from the summit of Mount Graham, and maintain the utility services. This position plays an essential role in supporting the observatory's scientific mission by maintaining critical facilities, utility systems, roads, and equipment necessary for ongoing telescope operations and world-class astronomical research activities.

Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

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!

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• Drive large CDL trucks to transport freight, water, and wastewater to and from the summit.
• Operate various pieces of heavy equipment necessary for the continued operation of the telescope site, including grading roads, removing snow, maintaining drainage structures, repairing washouts, and repairing eroded areas of the access road and site.
• Maintain heavy equipment and work with hand tools, utilizing knowledge of mechanical and maintenance skills.
• Maintain water, gas, sewer, and electric utility systems critical to the continued operation of the telescope site.
• Maintain the various buildings located at the summit and at our base camp operations yard, including plumbing, HVAC, and electrical work.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Knowledge,
Skills, and Abilities (KSAs):

• Knowledge of the operation, maintenance, and repair of heavy equipment and machinery.
• Ability to safely operate heavy equipment and hand tools in a remote mountain environment.
• Knowledge of water, sewer, gas, and electrical utility systems.
• Ability to troubleshoot and perform maintenance on equipment, facilities, and utility systems.
• Ability to perform physical labor at high elevations and in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to read and follow technical instructions, operating procedures, and safety requirements.
• Demonstrated commitment to workplace safety and safe operating practices.

Physical
Requirements and Environmental Demands:

• Ability to lift, move, and transport materials and equipment (up to 75 lbs.) as required.
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions, including exposure to extreme heat and cold.
• Ability to work for extended periods of time at remote sites at elevations up to 10,500 feet.
• Ability to work in environments with elevated noise levels.
• Ability to work around vibrating equipment and machinery.
• Ability to safely work around moving mechanical equipment, vehicles, electrical systems, chemicals, and other workplace hazards.
• Ability to work at heights and on elevated surfaces as needed.
• Ability to work with oils, lubricants, and other maintenance-related fluids.
• Ability to work in environments with exposure to dust, fumes, odors, mists, gases, and other atmospheric conditions associated with maintenance and equipment operations.
• Follow established safety protocols and personal protective equipment (PPE) requirements.

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.

• High school diploma or high school diploma equivalency is required.
• A minimum of 3 years of relevant experience, or equivalent combination of education, technical training, apprenticeship training, and relevant experience that demonstrates the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
• The selected candidate must have the ability to perform physical labor at a high elevation of 10,500 feet.
• The
  selected candidate must be able to obtain a Class A CDL
  within one (1) year of hire date and have the ability
  to drive according to the University Fleet Safety Policy.