Position Title: Telescope Ops Spec
Employee Classification: Telescope Ops Specialist
College/Division: Arts and Sciences College
Department: 330300-ASTRONOMY
Internal or External Search: External - Open to all applicants
Location: Remote
Offsite Location (if applicable): Sunspot, NM
Target Hourly/Salary Rate: Commensurate with qualifications
Appointment Full-time Equivalency: 1.0
Exempt or Non-Exempt: Exempt
Summary: The Department of Astronomy at New Mexico State University, a research-focused academic unit dedicated to excellence in education and discovery, invites you to apply for an available position at Apache Point Observatory located in Sunspot, New Mexico.
Classification Summary:
Works at telescope site, responsible for safety of site personnel and for the observatory during operational shift. Interprets, assesses, advises, and works closely with visiting scientists, engineers and technicians. Operates telescope and related computers, instruments and sub-systems. Performs regular maintenance and instrument changes and assists with special maintenance activities. May test functionality of newly installed software and assist in debugging.
Classification Standard Duties:
Supervise, direct, delegate, and evaluate work of assigned staff. Assist in performing daily quality assurance tests and data analysis of telescope instruments and acquire data. Operate facilities to acquire scientific data, under direction of Support Astronomers. Perform periodic engineering tests and procedures as instructed, Assist engineering staff to maintain and improve facilities. Participate in the interface with other project staff at different institutions regarding survey issues and progress. Perform related duties as required.
Required Education, Experience, Certification/License, Equivalency
Required Education:Bachelor's degree in a related field.; Required Experience:One (1) year of experience related to the standard duties as outlined; Equivalency:Any equivalent combination of education, training and/or experience as approved by Human Resource Services.; Required Certification/License:
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
KNOWLEDGE:University and department policies and procedures; principles and practices of organization and administration; principles of supervision, training, and performance evaluation.; SKILLS:Short- and long-range planning; problem analysis and resolution; report preparation and presentation; public contact and relations; oral and written communication; technical; computer; telescope control systems and/or analysis of images / spectra.; ABILITIES:Direct, evaluate, train, and supervise the work of assigned personnel; develop and maintain effective working relationships; maintain accurate and orderly records; use independent judgment and initiative; organize and direct activities; analyze and evaluate information; Understand and operate software on Mac and Linux based Operating Systems.
Job Duties and Responsibilities
Telescope Operations Specialist (TOS) is responsible for nightly operation of the 3.5m telescope andinstruments, monitoring the data streams, tracking system performance and observing efficiency. TheTOS works closely with Astronomers and students, operating the telescope and instruments remotely, toefficiently take observations and debug issues. They work with other night staff to monitor the facility, weather and safe and proper operation of the telescopes. The selected candidate will perform setup/instrument preparations and calibrations, service observing and monitoring of remotely operated telescopes. Monitoring the performance of equipment and effectively communicating any problems with the day engineering and IT staff is required.
Preferred Qualifications
Special Requirements of the Position
Department Contact: William Ketzeback, 575-437-6822, bketzeba@nmsu.edu
Contingent Upon Funding: Contingent upon external funding
Bargaining Unit Eligibility: This is NOT a bargaining unit position with American Federation of State, County & Municipal Employees (AFSCME).
Standard Work Schedule: Shift: Other Shift
If Not a Standard Work Schedule: Monday – Sunday 8pm to 6am, night shift, afternoons, weekends or holidays may be required
Working Conditions and Physical Effort
Environment: Work involves moderate exposure to unusual elements, such as extreme temperatures, dirt, dust, fumes, smoke, unpleasant odors, and/or loud noises.
Physical Effort: Moderate physical activity.
Lifting Requirements: Requires handling of average-weight objects up to 25 pounds or standing and/or walking for more than four (4) hours per day.
Risk: Work environment involves some exposure to hazards or physical risks, which require following basic safety precautions.