Lead Active Optics Control Scientist for LSST

Noao; La Serena; On-site; CLP 89,021,000 - 118,694,000; Full time

Job summary

The Vera C. Rubin Observatory’s NOIRLab seeks an Active Optics Control Scientist to lead optimization of the observatory’s active optics performance while delivering world-class image quality from Cerro Pachón, Chile.

This role integrates optical engineering, control theory, and software development with a strong emphasis on operational excellence. Based in La Serena, Chile, or Tucson, AZ, you will collaborate with scientists and engineers across an international organization, drive algorithm

Qualifications

• PhD in Astronomy, Optical Sciences, Physics or related field.
• 3+ years developing, commissioning, or operating active/adaptive optics systems.
• Strong background in controls theory and control algorithm development.
• Experience with simulation, modeling, and analytical tools.
• Proficient in Python or similar language.
• Willingness to travel domestically and internationally to observatories.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate and improve on-sky active optics performance.
• Lead the optimization of active optics control algorithms.
• Analyze delivered image quality and identify performance improvements.
• Streamline, standardize, and modernize active optics control software.
• Drive end-to-end optimization of the active optics pipeline to reduce latency and execution time.
• Collaborate with scientists, software and optical engineers, and operations teams across an international organization.
• Help ensure Rubin consistently achieves the image quality required for groundbreaking science.

Skills

Controls theory

Python programming

Simulation & modeling

Analytical tools

Travel readiness

Education

PhD in Astronomy, Optical Sciences, or Physics

Tools

Zemax

Code V

Git/GitHub workflows

Job description

The Vera C. Rubin Observatory’s NOIRLab seeks an Active Optics Control Scientist to lead optimization of the observatory’s active optics performance while delivering world-class image quality from Cerro Pachón, Chile.

This role integrates optical engineering, control theory, and software development with a strong emphasis on operational excellence. Based in La Serena, Chile, or Tucson, AZ, you will collaborate with scientists and engineers across an international organization, drive algorithm