Research Technician

California Institute of Technology
vision insurance, parental leave, paid time off, sick time, tuition reimbursement
United States, California, Pasadena
Apr 13, 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 The Caltech Space Radiation Laboratory (SRL) in Pasadena, CA, seeks a highly motivated, skilled technician to support the development and test of the NASA Ultraviolet Explorer (UVEX) detectors and focal plane electronics. The individual will support a variety of mechanical and electrical assembly and testing activities. SRL provides a dynamic and inclusive work environment that emphasizes teamwork in pursuit of scientific discovery. The Space Radiation Laboratory, part of the Physics, Math, and Astronomy Division at Caltech (www.caltech.edu), partners with NASA, the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL, operated for NASA by Caltech), and the Space Sciences Laboratory (SSL) at UC-Berkeley on UVEX. Essential Job Duties Mechanical assembly of cryogenic test dewars and calibration facilities. Machining and mechanical alteration of component parts. Develop assembly procedures for test cryostats. Maintaining vacuum systems, including plumbing and pumps. Prepare purchase order requests, contact vendors for quotations and delivery status of mechanical and electrical parts. Maintain clean room facilities. Working with high-pressure liquid nitrogen dewars. This includes filling the test setups and maintaining. Basic Qualifications Bachelor's degree in science, mathematics or engineering. Aptitude for experimental work in a laboratory setting, including careful hands-on assembly. Preferred Qualifications Prior experience with cryogenics, detectors, and/or low-noise electronics. Familiarity with mechanical and electrical design and associated software. Experience or background in optical and UV instrumentation. Required Documents Resume Cover Letter Hiring Range $25.25 - $30.75 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.