New

Summer Research Assistant

California Institute of Technology
vision insurance, parental leave, paid time off, sick time, tuition reimbursement
United States, California, Pasadena
Mar 15, 2026
Caltech is a world-renowned science and engineering institute that marshals some of the world's brightest minds and most innovative tools to address fundamental scientific questions. We thrive on finding and cultivating talented people who are passionate about what they do. Join us and be a part of the diverse Caltech community. Job Summary Summer Research Associate: Support the research needs of Caltech Optical Observatories OIR projects in the division of Physics Math and Astronomy (PMA) through a combination of daily tasks and engineering technical assistance in labs. Essential Job Duties Provide hands on engineering assistance on OIR instrumentation projects as needed: Assemble mechanical, optical and electrical components. Assemble and connect various technical/lab equipment and components. Integrate, check out and debug various assemblies such as Mechanical, Electronic and Software components into a working assembly as per the intended design. Collect data and measure performance of various assemblies. Analyze data and performance of various assemblies. Document process and procedure of assemblies, tests and analysis. Basic Qualifications Ongoing or completed degree in astronomy, physics or engineering. Prior work experience in a relevant astronomical/optical systems environment such as an astronomical observatory or optics laboratory. Assist with setting up equipment; such as on optical tables, equipment racks, making electrical connections, connecting gas and liquid supply lines, vacuum systems and associated hardware. Ability/experience in aligning optical systems. Use SolidWorks to design simple parts and create engineering drawings for prototype machining/manufacturing or modification. Use MATLAB to make models and simulations, analyze and prepare data for presentation. Knowledge and understanding of the operation of various scientific instruments, equipment and devices. Must be able to follow safety protocols and procedures. Must possess strong verbal and written communication skills to effectively interact professionally with research faculty, staff, postdocs, students, and other colleagues. Preferred skills and experience Ability to understand specifications, drawings and interface documents. Basic proficiency in using Python and/or command line interface (CLI). Basic understanding of raytracing and optical design. Experience with SharePoint, SolidWorks PDM vault, GitHub. Required Documents Resume. Cover letter (optional). Hiring Range $22.00 - $26.25 Per Hour The salary of the finalist(s) selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, internal equity, experience, education, specialty and training. As one of the largest employers in Pasadena, CA, Caltech is committed to providing comprehensive benefits to eligible employees and their eligible dependents. Our benefits package includes competitive compensation, health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement savings plans, generous paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick time, parental leave, bereavement, etc.), tuition reimbursement, and more. Non-benefit eligible employees will have access to some benefits such as onsite counseling and sick time. Learn more about our benefits and staff perks. EEO Statement We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Caltech is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor. To read more Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) go to eeoc_self_print_poster.pdf. Disability Accommodations Caltech complies with the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). We consider reasonable accommodation measures that may be necessary for eligible applicants and employees to perform the essential functions of a position. If you would like to request an accommodation to complete this application, interview, or otherwise participate in the employee selection process, please contact Caltech Recruiting at employment@caltech.edu. Additionally, if you do not meet the basic qualifications of a role but believe you can perform the essential functions of the job with reasonable accommodation, please reach out to Caltech Recruiting at employment@caltech.edu.