PRIMARY DETAIL

• HEW Level 7 ($114,992 – $124,676 per annum), plus 17% superannuation and annual leave loading

• Full-time, 2 Year fixed-term role

• Macquarie University, Wallumattagal Campus, North Ryde

Australian Astronomical Optics (AAO) at Macquarie University is seeking an Electronics Engineer to join a world-class team developing innovative telescope instrumentation and technology for the global astronomy community.

In this role, you will provide specialised technical and engineering expertise across the design, development and commissioning of advanced instrumentation projects. Working within a multi-disciplinary team of electronics, optical, mechanical and software professionals, you will help shape solutions that meet exacting performance, time and budget specifications.

This is a meaningful opportunity to contribute to projects with real scientific impact, building the instruments deployed on major telescopes around the world, while also engaging with students and contributing to Macquarie's research-based learning and teaching objectives.

About the Role

Reporting to the Electronics Engineering Manager, your key responsibilities are to:

• Analyse the requirements of instrument electro-mechanical systems and develop computer control and interface solutions, including servo and stepper motors, relays and solenoids, piezo-electric devices, resolvers, encoders, and sensors such as optical and infrared image arrays.

• Evaluate and select commercial off-the-shelf electronics components and assemblies, including motor controllers, detector controllers, amplifiers, power supplies, and digital interfaces, enclosures, connectors and cables.

• Design, develop, construct and test electronics assemblies for signal conditioning, interfacing and electro-mechanical controls, including cable assemblies, enclosures and racks.

• Develop prototype electronics systems for proof-of-concept design studies, along with microcontroller firmware and PLC code as required.

• Liaise with optical, mechanical and software professionals to ensure electronics systems meet design and software requirements.

• Develop and implement test and commissioning plans for sub-systems, systems and whole instruments, working with colleagues across disciplines.

• Prepare and present reports for in-house and external design reviews and produce operational and maintenance documentation.

• Assist lead engineers, systems engineers and project managers in delivering project objectives, plans and budgets.

• Undertake occasional travel to national and international telescopes and institutions for project reviews, installation, commissioning, testing and support.

About Us

Macquarie is the new home for the instrumentation group of the former Australian Astronomical Observatory. Over decades, this Sydney-based group has established an enviable reputation for its precision engineering capability and expertise within astronomy instrumentation across optical, mechanical and electronic precision engineering.

Macquarie is taking a significant role in leading and growing Australia's strength in astronomical instrumentation, partnering with the Australian National University and the University of Sydney to establish a new national capability under the banner Australian Astronomical Optics (AAO).

Australian Astronomical Optics | Macquarie University

AAO-Macquarie has a new vision and an exciting agenda for transformation, in both scale and efficiency. Our team of experts builds on the University's existing strengths in astronomy, photonics, laser technology, microfabrication, applied optics and sensing communications, with the aim of growing industry engagement, applying expertise to medicine and defence, and expanding our presence in optics and sensing, alongside our ongoing mission of world-leading excellence in astronomical instrumentation.

The AAO-Macquarie group has a long-standing commitment to advancing equity and diversity principles. We hold silver status in the Pleiades awards, Australia's scheme for certifying progress in equity, diversity and inclusion in astronomy and physics, and are committed to continual improvement.

About You (Selection Criteria)

You are a skilled Electronics Engineer who enjoys applying technical expertise to complex instrumentation challenges within a multi-disciplinary team. You bring sound design capability, clear communication, and a methodical approach to building and testing electronic systems.

• Bachelor's degree in electrical or electronics engineering or a related discipline, with at least 5 years' experience in a relevant field.

• Highly competent in electronics design for instrumentation and control, including interfacing with electro-mechanical devices and systems, DC servo and stepper motors, piezo actuators, infrared and optical detector arrays, and cabling systems.

• Ability to specify, evaluate and select components from commercial suppliers.

• Experience with the construction, packaging and integration of electronic assemblies and systems.

• Experience in testing and debugging electronics assemblies at component and board level.

• Effective oral and written communication skills, with experience working as part of a multi-disciplinary team.

• Knowledge of work health and safety requirements in a technical and laboratory environment (desirable).

How to Apply

To be considered, please apply online with your CV and a cover letter outlining how your experience aligns with the selection criteria (above).

Applications Close: 11:55pm AEST Sunday 26 July 2026.

Role Enquiries: For enquiries, or a confidential conversation about the role please contact Lew Waller, Electronics Engineering Manager at lew.waller@mq.edu.au.

Why Join Us?

Macquarie is a university engaged with the real and often complex problems and opportunities that define our lives. Since our foundation over 60 years ago, we have aspired to be a different type of university. Over the years, we have grown to become the centre of a vibrant local and global community. Connect with us today.

We rank amongst the top employers in the Australian Workplace Employers Index. Explore the fantastic benefits available to you when you become part of the team at Macquarie University.

• Flexible, hybrid work arrangements

• 17% Superannuation

• Subsidised onsite parking options

• Extensive training and professional development programs

• Onsite childcare facilities to support working parents

• Onsite vacation care during school holidays

• Discounted health insurance

• Subsidised membership at our Sport & Aquatic Centre

• Access to an Employee Assistance Program for free and confidential support

• Convenient onsite GP, imaging, and physiotherapy clinics

Pre-Employment Checks

Macquarie University cultivates a workplace defined by safety, ethical conduct, and strong integrity. Prior to completion of an offer of employment, preferred candidates will be required to participate in a combination of pre-employment checks relevant to the role they have applied for.

Your employment is conditional upon the completion and maintenance of all role-required pre-employment or background checks in terms satisfactory to the University.

If you're already part of the Macquarie Group (MQ University, U@MQ, MQ Health, MGSM), you'll need to apply through your employee Workday account.

Applications Close:

A Place Where You Belong
At Macquarie, we believe diversity makes us stronger, inclusion drives our success, and belonging inspires us to do our best work. We are proud to foster a community where different backgrounds, identities, and experiences are valued, and where our people are empowered to thrive through supportive leadership, shared responsibility, and a deep commitment to genuine care and respect for our community. Find out more about our vision for a truly inclusive workplace in our Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging Framework.