Nightly Survey Telescope Operator & Data Monitor

Las Campanas Observatory; La Serena; On-site; CLP 44,964,029 - 67,446,043; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Transportation from La Serena to observatory

Meals included

Lodging at LCO mountain lodge

Job summary

Las Campanas Observatory is seeking a full-time Survey Observer/Operator to join its Survey Operations Team at the du Pont telescope. Candidates will manage the nightly operations of the SDSS-V instrument suite. Key responsibilities include instrument checkout, monitoring data quality, and troubleshooting issues.

Candidates should possess a degree in astronomy or a related field along with fluency in English and Spanish. The position offers transportation, meals, and lodging at the observatory.

Qualifications

• Degree in astronomy, physics, engineering or closely related field is required.
• Exceptional work experience may substitute for degree requirements.

Responsibilities

• Ensure safe and efficient nightly survey operations of the SDSS-V instrument suite.
• Perform instrument checkout, monitoring data streams and system performance.
• Support instrument commissioning and perform troubleshooting as needed.
• Write daily and weekly reports on operations and contribute to documenting procedures.

Skills

Fluency in written and spoken English & Spanish

Team communication and cooperation

Linux/UNIX expertise

Valid driver’s license (Class 'B')

Hands-on observing experience

Astronomical data analysis

Understanding of optical and electronic systems

Programming in Python

Education

Degree in astronomy, physics, engineering or closely related field

Job description

Las Campanas Observatory is seeking a full-time Survey Observer/Operator to join its Survey Operations Team at the du Pont telescope. Candidates will manage the nightly operations of the SDSS-V instrument suite. Key responsibilities include instrument checkout, monitoring data quality, and troubleshooting issues.

Candidates should possess a degree in astronomy or a related field along with fluency in English and Spanish. The position offers transportation, meals, and lodging at the observatory.