New

Lead Project Engineer

California Institute of Technology
vision insurance, parental leave, paid time off, sick time, tuition reimbursement
United States, California, Big Pine
Feb 19, 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 We are seeking a Lead Project Engineer to be in charge of the design and construction of the most advanced imaging radio telescope in the world. This individual will be responsible for the technical definition and documentation of 2000-antenna Deep Synoptic Array (DSA-2000) systems. The role will be based in Big Pine, CA, and requires up to 20% regional and international travel. Essential Job Duties Develop a thorough understanding of the total system with emphasis on the interfaces between the major components. Coordinate technical documents for all subsystems of the project, verify interface requirements between subsystems and maintain documentation of the overall architecture of the project. Analyze the hardware systems to verify overall performance and compatibility of subsystems. Identify critical technical problems and coordinate engineers and scientists to provide solutions. Maintain documentation of the overall architecture of the project. Track technical risk, critical path issues and specification changes for the project, coordinating closely with the project manager and principal investigator (PI) team. Manage technical information for procurements, tracking delivery times and delays with the project manager. Organize and coordinate the interactions between the various teams ranging from the front-end receivers to the final delivery of the scientific images. Manage the engineering team towards meeting milestones and completion of design work. Supervise engineers assigned to the project and the external contractors providing services for the site. Help lead the documentation, planning and proposal preparation for major stage gate reviews and funding proposals. Coordinate closely with scientists and engineers at Caltech and DSA-2000 partner institutes to ensure the successful technical implementation of theDSA-2000 software. Minimum Qualifications Bachelor's or equivalent degree in a related engineering field (e.g., electronic engineering, electrical engineering, systems engineering) 8 years of experience in senior engineering role(s) within a large integrated project Experience must include the following: technology domains related to radio astronomy such as electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), radio frequency interference (RFI), digital signal processing (DSP), and software; large-scale radio telescope and infrastructure design; working across life-cycle phases (e.g., design, qualification, industrialization, production, construction, and transition to operations); writing Requests for Quotation (RFQs) and evaluating bids; developing, implementing, and conducting acceptance processes and project reviews. Requires good English written and oral communication skills, and the ability to work effectively with a diverse team of engineers, technicians, scientists, and other stakeholders, locally and remotely. Required Documents Resume Hiring Range $205,067 - $275,000 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.