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 position is full-time, temporary (3 to 12 months), and located at Palomar Observatory at Palomar Mountain in San Diego County, CA.

The position works under the supervision of the Facilities Maintenance group supervisor. Under limited direction, the position will work alone or with other observatory staff members to perform grounds and building maintenance.

Duties include but not limited to are weed / brush abatement, tree trimming, mowing, fence repair, snow / ice abatement, building repair / maintenance, painting, woodworking, and general water systems / plumbing repair.

The position will assist with industrial water and septic systems repair as needed. The position will perform and document grounds and building preventive maintenance tasks.

Essential Job Duties

• Grounds maintenance including blowing, weed / brush control, mowing, tree trimming, fencing, snow / ice abatement, and other grounds maintenance tasks.
• Building maintenance including wall / door / roof repair, painting, woodworking, water systems and plumbing repair, and other building maintenance tasks.
• Assist with general mechanic tasks such as scheduled preventive maintenance, unplanned repairs, and planned upgrades.
• Basic troubleshooting and repair of observatory equipment, including lawn / grounds equipment, mowers, and vehicles.
• Schedule, perform, and document grounds and buildings preventive maintenance tasks.
• Assist with the observatory water and septic infrastructure inspection and repair.
• Assist with telescope and dome maintenance tasks, telescope mirror cleaning and coating, and other duties as assigned as needed.

Basic Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• Must be able to safely use basic tools, groundskeeping tools, power tools, and chainsaws.
• Must have a valid California driver’s license and maintain it throughout employment.
• Must be able to lift 50 lbs. of facility maintenance equipment, tools, and supplies.
• Ability to walk, stand, push, pull, climb, twist, stoop, and bend to accomplish job requirements on a consistent / regular basis, on dirt, snow, ice, mud, and uneven terrain.
• Must be able to work outside in inclement weather, within confined and / or elevated spaces, at an elevation of 6000’.

Preferred Qualifications

3 or more years of grounds and facility / building maintenance experience preferred.

Required Documents

Resume

Hiring Range

$19.50 - $22.00 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 and .

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 .

Disability Accommodations

Last updated : 2024-05-22