Job Description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please to complete the . Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.

CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please to complete the Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.

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JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

The Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics of The Pennsylvania State University has an immediate opening for a Research Assistant to work in the Sub-Orbital Rocket Lab. In the Sub-Orbital Rocket Lab we design, build, and launch high-resolution soft X-ray spectrometers and a hire is needed to help with lab maintenance, building a new payload, and further developing an existing payload. The duties of the research assistant include:

Assist with build-up of sub-orbital rocket payloads. This will include cleaning of vacuum components, assembly of high-performance scientific equipment, and performance testing of the spectrometer.

Use of vacuum and cooling systems

Performing experiments required to test the spectrometer sub-systems and final payload

Data collection using standard scientific practices

Presenting results in written reports and orally.

General upkeep of the lab including reordering consumables, maintaining the chemical inventory, and ensuring that the lab is kept in a clean and tidy manner.

Required experience

Working in a lab environment

Running experiments while taking detailed notes

General tool usage

Desirable experience

Knowledge of CAD programs such as Solidworks

Working on instrumentation

Coding experience in Matlab/Python

Applications must be submitted electronically and include a cover letter and resume. Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled.

The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and sustainability in all of its forms. We embrace individual uniqueness, foster a culture of inclusion that supports both broad and specific diversity initiatives, leverage the educational and institutional benefits of diversity in society and nature, and engage all individuals to help them thrive. We value inclusion as a core strength and an essential element of our public service mission.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS:

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review .

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applications without regards to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identify, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

Penn State is committed to the health of our local and global communities. As a condition of employment, all employees are required to comply with COVID-19 vaccination or testing requirements. Click on to learn about the requirements as well as general COVID-19 information at Penn State.

University Park, PA

Pennsylvania State University