Engineering Technical (Mechanical)
What you'd do
The Sub-millimeter Array (SMA) is a joint project of the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory (SAO). The observatory consists of a control building and hangar, eight relocatable antennas and associated instrumentation on the summit of Maunakea. The SMA is a radio interferometer array that conducts astronomical observations at millimeter and sub-millimeter wavelengths from 180 GHz to 420 GHz.
Major duties
Conduct field inspections, measurements, and data collection for mechanical systems such as HVAC, pumps, piping, boilers, chillers, compressors, and fluid distribution systems. Perform calculations related to flow, pressure, heat transfer, load, and system performance using established formulas and engineering references. Read existing designs to complete packages, installation checklists, machine parts lists, and specifications of instrumentation equipment. Assemble modified or new mechanical components for equipment and industrial and scientific machinery. Conduct limited troubleshooting and diagnostics on mechanical equipment, identifying routine issues and recommending corrective actions. Manage SMA's day to day operations of the fleet center; overseeing a diverse fleet including four wheel drive vehicles. Provide technical assistance in developing maintenance and/or repair of precision mechanical assemblies at the observatory, including antennas, antenna transporter, and infrastructure. Operate specialized bridge cranes, hoists and forklift trucks used in the assembly and maintenance of large antenna components. Work with the antenna transporter, which is used to move the antennas.
What you need to qualify
In order to qualify, you must meet the experience requirements described below. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student; social). You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Your resume must clearly describe your relevant experience. Specialized Experience: Grade 09: Must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-08 level in the Federal service or comparable pay band system related to the work of this position. Specialized experience includes activities such as practical knowledge of mechanical assemblies used in large instruments and/or industrial equipment, and knowledge of machining operations on metals and plastics. Time-in-Grade Requirements: Under competitive merit promotion procedures, any individual who is currently holding, or who has held within the previous 52 weeks, a General Schedule position under a non-temporary appointment in the competitive or excepted service, must meet "time-in-grade" requirements (have served 52 weeks at the next lower grade of the grade for which you are applying).
Before you apply
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