Argus Array Mechanical Engineer

Company: UNC-Chapel Hill
Location: Chapel Hill
Posted on: April 2, 2026

Job Description:

Position Summary The Argus Array is a new type of large telescope – it covers the entire sky in every image and will be the first very large optical telescope array. As a Mechanical Engineer for the Argus Array project, you will contribute to the design, development, and integration of critical mechanical components that enable the array’s unique capabilities. Your responsibilities will be refining and integrating Argus mechanical systems including both large and small mechanical systems and interfaces to the Array’s optic systems. You will work closely with our team of astronomers, telescope-instrumentalists, engineers, and data scientists to implement and optimize these systems for the world’s largest optical telescope array and the largest digital camera ever built (55 Gigapixels). This position involves both hands-on engineering and working with external vendors for specialized optical assemblies and protection systems, helping transform prototypes into production-ready components for the full-scale Argus Array. Our project management philosophy emphasizes a small and local team; flat management structure; and a highly-collaborative working environment. We routinely produce prototypes and complex hardware in-house, and are performing significant hands-on engineering for Argus subsystems. The expected timescale for this project is two years, with possibility of extension to further projects. Learn more about the project here: http://www.argusscience.org Required Qualifications, Competencies, And Experience Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, Optical Engineering, or related field Proficiency with CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Fusion, AutoCAD, or similar) Strong foundation in mechanical engineering principles and optical systems Experience with hardware prototyping and testing Ability to work collaboratively in a cross-functional team environment Preferred Qualifications, Competencies, And Experience Experience in optical or mechanical engineering Experience performing detailed FEA simulation of mechanical systems Experience with precision motion control systems and their integration Ability to quickly learn and adapt to new technologies and challenges Enthusiasm for contributing to groundbreaking astronomical research

Keywords: UNC-Chapel Hill, Cary , Argus Array Mechanical Engineer, Engineering , Chapel Hill, North Carolina