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Caltech Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Commissioning Specialist

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$139K - $154K/yr

... Caltech's commissioning processes and recommissioning activities for complex research, academic, and support facilities across the campus. This role ensures that building systems, particularly ...

Database Manager for YSOC

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$69K - $80K/yr

Caltech is a world-renowned science and engineering institute that marshals some of the world ... There is also opportunity for related collaborative research projects. Essential Job Duties The ...

Senior Optical Scientist

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$99K - $136K/yr

... R&D centers on the Caltech and MIT campuses. The LIGO Laboratory's mission spans a broad and vibrant array of activities related to gravitational-wave physics and astronomy, including detector ...

Caltech is a world-renowned science and engineering research and education institution, as well as a thriving community of curious and passionate individuals who collaborate to understand and solve ...

EMC Engineer

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$97K - $160K/yr

The role can be based at either the Caltech campus or the Owens Valley Radio Observatory (OVRO, a world class facility operated by Caltech for research in radio astronomy, located near Bishop in ...

IPAC is a hub for enabling breakthrough astronomy research by supporting NASA-funded missions, projects, and science data archives. We are part of the Physics, Math, and Astronomy Division at Caltech ...

The observatory sites are supported by science and engineering research facilities at MIT in Cambridge, MA and at Caltech in Pasadena, CA. As a senior member of the core Hanford Observatory ...

Provide mechanical engineering support of Caltech's astronomical instrumentation program, from conceptual design through commissioning, delivering sophisticated research instruments on major ...

Caltech is a world-renowned science and engineering institute that marshals some of the world ... and research staff. The functional title for this position will be Grants Manager Assistant.

Caltech is a world-renowned science and engineering institute that marshals some of the world ... Purchase research equipment and lab supplies using P-card and TechMart administrative systems in ...

Senior Investment Associate

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$120K - $142K/yr

Enthusiasm for Caltech's dual institutional missions of conducting groundbreaking scientific research and providing a rigorous education to promising STEM students. Preferred Qualifications * Direct ...

$134K - $168K/yr

... R&D centers on the Caltech and MIT campuses. The LIGO Laboratory's mission spans a broad and vibrant array of activities related to gravitational-wave physics and astronomy, including detector ...

Staff Scientist

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$79K - $105K/yr

Caltech is a world-renowned science and engineering institute that marshals some of the world ... research program, ideally making use of NEO Surveyor data, and participate in the broader IPAC ...

Job Summary Caltech is a world-renowned science and engineering research and education institution where extraordinary faculty, students and staff seek answers to complex questions, discover new ...

Caltech is a world-renowned science and engineering institute that marshals some of the world ... Help lab members test and integrate LLM-based AI tools to improve efficiency of research tasks such ...

Special Response Officer/EMT

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$19.75 - $26/hr

Caltech is a world-renowned science and engineering institute that marshals some of the world ... Primary response to high security labs and research facilities. * Assisting Environmental Health ...

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Caltech Research information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Caltech Researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Caltech Researcher, you generally need an advanced degree (such as a PhD), strong analytical skills, and a solid background in your scientific or engineering discipline. Familiarity with specialized laboratory equipment, data analysis software (e.g., MATLAB, Python), and research publication systems is essential. Excellent problem-solving abilities, collaboration, and effective communication skills help researchers excel in dynamic, multidisciplinary environments. These competencies are crucial for producing innovative research, publishing impactful findings, and contributing to Caltech's reputation for scientific excellence.

How do Caltech research positions typically foster collaboration across disciplines?

Caltech research roles are known for their highly collaborative, interdisciplinary environment. Researchers often work closely with faculty, postdocs, and students from different departments—such as physics, engineering, biology, and chemistry—to tackle complex scientific questions. This structure encourages frequent cross-departmental meetings, shared lab resources, and joint projects, providing a unique opportunity to broaden your expertise and contribute to innovative solutions. As a result, team members regularly develop both their technical and communication skills while building a strong professional network.

What is a Caltech research position?

A Caltech research position typically refers to a role at the California Institute of Technology that involves conducting scientific or engineering investigations, experiments, or studies. These positions can range from undergraduate research assistants to postdoctoral scholars and faculty researchers. They often involve working closely with faculty members in a specific field, such as physics, biology, engineering, or chemistry. Caltech research positions are renowned for their focus on innovation, rigorous methodology, and contributions to groundbreaking discoveries. Individuals in these roles are expected to contribute to the advancement of knowledge in their discipline.

What is the difference between Caltech Research vs Caltech Research Assistant?

AspectCaltech ResearchCaltech Research Assistant
Required CredentialsMaster's or PhD in relevant field, specialized research experienceBachelor's degree, some research experience preferred
Work EnvironmentIndependent research, collaboration with faculty and scientistsSupportive role, assisting senior researchers and labs
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, academia, scientific labsAcademic labs, research centers, university departments
Common Search & ComparisonHigher-level research roles, specialized expertiseEntry-level research support, assisting ongoing projects

Caltech Research positions typically require advanced degrees and involve independent research, while Caltech Research Assistants support research activities under supervision. The former focuses on conducting experiments and publishing findings, whereas the latter provides essential assistance to research teams. Both roles are integral to scientific progress but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

More about Caltech Research jobs
What cities are hiring for Caltech Research jobs? Cities with the most Caltech Research job openings:
What states have the most Caltech Research jobs? States with the most job openings for Caltech Research jobs include:
Commissioning Specialist

Commissioning Specialist

Caltech

Pasadena, CA • On-site

$139K - $154K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

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
Reporting to the Assistant Vice President for Facilities Operations & Services, the Facilities Commissioning Specialist provides expertise and oversight for the system commissioning and on-going operational performance of Caltech critical infrastructure and automation systems
This position is responsible for planning, executing, and overseeing Caltech's commissioning processes and recommissioning activities for complex research, academic, and support facilities across the campus. This role ensures that building systems, particularly laboratory, life-safety, and mission-critical infrastructure perform as intended, support research continuity, meet regulatory requirements, and align with institutional standards for safety, energy efficiency, and reliability.
The position works closely with Facilities Operations, Planning Design and Construction, Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S), researchers, design teams, and external commissioning providers to ensure seamless turnover from construction to operations and optimized performance throughout the facility lifecycle.
Essential Job Duties
Commissioning & Technical Oversight:
  • Plan, manage, and oversee commissioning, retro-commissioning, and recommissioning activities for existing campus facilities
  • Provide oversite and review of the commissioning plan, for new construction
  • Develop and review the Caltech commissioning guide and standards.
  • Develop and review commissioning plans, scripts, functional tests, and commissioning reports.
  • Capital Projects & Design Coordination:
  • Provide commissioning input during planning, design, and construction phases.
  • Review design documents and participate in design and construction meetings.
  • Coordinate with contractors, consultants, and third-party commissioning agents.
Transition to Operations:
  • Support system turnover, review O&M documentation, and facilitate facilities staff training.
  • Verify system readiness prior to occupancy or research startup.
Existing Building Performance:
  • Analyze system performance and trending data to identify optimization opportunities.
  • Support sustainability, energy efficiency, and decarbonization initiatives.
Compliance & Safety:
  • Ensure commissioned systems meet applicable codes, standards, and campus requirements.
  • Support EH&S and research safety protocols.
Basic Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering, architecture, facilities management, or a related discipline, or equivalent work experience.
  • Eight or more years of experience in building commissioning, facilities engineering, or construction management.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of HVAC, laboratory ventilation, and building automation systems.
  • Ability to effectively read and interpret construction documents and control sequences.
  • Proven systems thinking and technical problem-solving abilities.
  • Ability to work cross-functionally and collaborate with key internal and external stakeholders.
  • Demonstrates sharp attention to detail with a strong safety focus.
  • Proven project management and documentation skills.
  • Excellent written, verbal, and coordination skills.
  • Must be able to work occurs in office, mechanical rooms, rooftops, and active construction environments.
  • Occasional after-hours or weekend work may be required for testing and research support activities.
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 25lbs on a consistent basis and ability to access confined spaces and traverse campus facilities safely.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Certified Commissioning Professional (CCP), Building Commissioning Professional (BCxP), or similar credential.
  • Professional Engineer (PE) or Certified Energy Manager (CEM).
  • Experience with laboratory, healthcare, or research campus environments.
  • Familiarity with central utility plants or district energy systems.
Required Documents
  • Resume.

Hiring Range
$139,300 - $154,100 Per Year
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.