The University of Arizona (UArizona) Department of Astronomy and Steward Observatory (SO) invites applications for Postdoctoral Research Associates interested in program management of science driven engineering projects. This specific opportunity is related to space-based telescope and instrumentation development for high-contrast imaging applications, notably the detection of exoplanets around nearby stars. Applicants with experience in the development of complex hardware systems in any domain of the physical sciences and a desire to pursue a career in program and/or project management are encouraged to apply. Successful applicants will work within the UArizona Space Astrophysics Lab (UASAL) lead by Dr. Ewan Douglas. This group is tightly coupled to the Center for Astronomical Adaptive Optics, Steward Observatory and the College of Optical Sciences.

Previous projects of comparable size that were managed by Steward Observatory include NIRCam for James Webb Space Telescope and the Interferometer for the Large Binocular Telescope.

UArizona SO offers a world-class research environment in space science and astrophysics with strong interdisciplinary programs across the Departments of Astronomy, Optical Sciences, and Planetary Sciences. Recently selected to build the Aspera CubeSat and home to the JWST NIRCam team, Steward Observatory provides direct access to various world-class facilities for ground-based radio and optical program development.

The position will provide opportunities for outreach and student engagement, and applicants with interest in outreach or science communication are encouraged to apply. The position is desired to be filled as soon as possible.

Outstanding UA benefits include health, dental, vision, and life insurance; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; UA/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; access to UA recreation and cultural activities; and more!

The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs. For more information about working at the University of Arizona and relocations services, please click here .

In addition, the successful applicant will:

• Work with program managers, scientist, engineers, and students.
• Develop a project management plan and framework geared to the team's needs and the challenges of fast-moving and agile projects.
• Work with the leads of engineering domain experts to develop schedules, budgets, risks, priorities, and execution strategies for projects exceeding $10M.
• Interact with external sponsors and collaborators in industry.
• Have career growth opportunities via supported enrollment in project management and systems engineering coursework at UA or ASU.
• Additional duties may be assigned.

• Candidates must have a PhD in an engineering or physical science field. The selected candidate must have a conferred PhD upon hire.
• Due to interactions and duties for this position, federal regulations require that the vacancy be filled by a US citizen, Legal Permanent Residents of the U.S, or have other protected status under 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).

• Instrumentation in hardware development is strongly preferred.
• Experience with technical communication.
• Experience developing project schedules with external dependencies.
• Experience in procurements and contract management.
• Experience in the development and management budgets .
• Experience in risk management and contingency estimation.
• Experience coordinating tasks and managing priorities amongst multiple parties and/or stakeholders.
• Experience working with scientists and engineers.
• Experience with systems engineering practices.
• Experience in grant application processes.
• Experience in project reporting to stakeholders and funding agencies.
• Experience in regulatory compliance.
• Experience contributing to open-source software or hardware projects