Job Details

LASP Mechanical Assembler IV

Position Number: 6376344
Location: Boulder, CO
Position Type: Engineering - Other Engineering

LASP Mechanical Assembler IV

Requisition Number: 63417
Location: Boulder Colorado
Employment Type: Research Faculty
Schedule: Full Time
Posting Close Date:
Date Posted:

Job Summary

The Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics (LASP) is a world-renowned space science research institute at the University of Colorado at Boulder, with an environment where professionals and students work closely with scientists in designing and building space flight hardware. Due to growth in our programs, LASP is looking to increase the number of skilled staff to assist in the flight assembly process. Join a design team that develops instruments for use on space flight programs.

For this position, we are looking for individuals who are skilled in assembly of precision optical/mechanical/electrical assemblies.
CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

Who We Are

LASP is a world-renowned space science research institute at the University of Colorado Boulder employing over 700 scientists, engineers, support personnel, and students. The University of Colorado receives more NASA funding than any public university in the country, due in large part to LASP programs. Professional engineers work closely with scientists and assembly technicians in designing and building space flight hardware while helping mentor students as entry-level engineers working on these programs. LASP is particularly proud of a work environment that supports employee creativity and productivity and offers opportunities for diverse experiences and a broad range of responsibilities.

What Your Key Responsibilities Will Be

Perform assembly of small and large-scale aerospace structures, mechanisms, and optomechanical instrumentation for application in vacuum and space-flight environments.
Handle and install delicate flight electronics, including circuit boards and card locks, with precision and care.
Assemble spacecraft structural components such as carbon fiber composite sandwich panels with potted inserts.
Conduct overhead crane lifting operations for mission-critical flight hardware in cleanroom environments.
Support closing activities for flight spacecraft assemblies, including red tag item removal, MLI thermal blanket closeouts, and final inspections.
Participate in spacecraft launch campaign operations, including fueling activities.
Support international transportation operations of spacecraft and ground support equipment (GSE).
Prepare flight hardware and GSE for environmental testing, including vibration, acoustic, shock, EMI/EMC, and thermal vacuum (TVAC) tests.
Install thermal tape, heaters, polymerics, perform electrical connector inspections and mates, and route EGSE harnesses per program requirements.
Work with engineers to devise technical solutions to a wide range of assembly and integration challenges.
Provide input to drawings and First Article Inspections (FAIs) for spaceflight hardware; attend program reviews and contribute to production planning.
Assist in setup and execution of functional and calibration testing of spaceflight hardware.
Monitor and respond to real-time conditions during environmental testing (e.g., TVAC, Vibe, EMI/EMC, Acoustics).
Set up and maintain specialized test configurations using mechanical tooling, jigs, and fixtures to ensure repeatability and accuracy.
Document test setups and procedures to support consistent testing practices and knowledge sharing.
Support test activities involving electrical, electro-mechanical, cryogenic, and electro-optical systems.
Follow verbal and written instructions from Cognizant Engineers and managers with precision and accountability.
Maintain lab efficiency, cleanliness, and safety standards; help ensure calibration and availability of all critical tools and supplies.
Respond quickly to evolving priorities and develop cross-functional capabilities to support team success.
Serve as a resource for peers by contributing to complex issue resolution and mentoring as needed.
Establish and maintain effective working relationships within the team and across the organization, promoting a positive and productive work environment.
Maintain a regular and predictable work schedule to support program continuity and success.

What You Should Know

Remote work is not allowed for this position. Work hours are standard work hours unless otherwise approved or requested.

What We Can Offer

$94,804.00 - $123,314.00
We offer a generous retirement plan that includes 200% matching for the first 5% contributed with immediate vesting.
This position is eligible for relocation.

Benefits

The University of Colorado offers excellent benefits, including medical, dental, retirement, paid time off, tuition benefit and ECO Pass. The University of Colorado Boulder is one of the largest employers in Boulder County and offers an inspiring higher education environment. Learn more about the University of Colorado Boulder.

Be Statements

Be ambitious. Be groundbreaking. Be Boulder.

What We Require

Five years or more mechanical assembly or prototype machining experience required.
BS in engineering.
Due to U.S. Export Control Restrictions, only U.S. Citizens and Permanent Residents may apply.

What You Will Need

Success in this role requires expertise in precision assembly of small-scale aerospace structures, the ability to read engineering drawings, and proficiency with calibrated tools such as torque wrenches and calipers.
A strong understanding of vacuum and spaceflight requirements, along with experience in testing and integration processes like vibration and thermal testing, is essential.
Attention to detail, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills are crucial for reviewing part designs and ensuring compliance with tight tolerances.
Effective communication and collaboration with engineers, managers, and program teams are key, as is the ability to follow detailed instructions and provide constructive feedback.
Strong time management, adaptability, and a commitment to quality will ensure success in this fast-paced environment.

Special Instructions

To apply, please submit the following materials:

Current Resume/CV
Cover Letter
(Optional) Transcripts/Proof of Degree: If you are selected as the finalist, your degree will be verified by the CU Boulder Campus Human Resources department using an approved online vendor. If your degree was obtained outside of the United States, please submit an English-translated version (if applicable) as an Optional attachment.

Please apply by July 25, 2025 for full consideration.
Note: Application materials will not be accepted via email. For consideration, please apply through CU Boulder Jobs.
In compliance with the Colorado Job Application Fairness Act, in any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information such as age, date of birth, or dates of school attendance or graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.

To apply, visit https://jobs.colorado.edu/jobs/JobDetail/LASP-Mechanical-Assembler-IV/63417