Night Telescope Operator: LSTs & Instrumentation

CTAO; Santa Cruz de la Palma; On-site; EUR 45,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Social benefits plan

Job summary

CTAO seeks a CTAO-North Site Telescope Operator for its La Palma northern array. Initial focus on commissioning Cherenkov telescopes, followed by operating new instrumentation, telescopes, and calibration equipment.

Work with the LST Collaboration and CTAO staff to define night observation processes and retain operation documentation. Must be able to work night shifts at ORM, weekends, and holidays; English fluency required, Spanish a plus.

Qualifications

• University degree in Engineering, Technical Physics, or other relevant fields.
• Experience operating complex technical/scientific systems, ideally astronomical telescopes and instrumentation.
• Familiarity with Unix, Linux and common computing software and OS.
• Familiarity with astronomical data analysis software and techniques is desirable.
• Valid driver’s license, ability to drive manual transmission on mountain roads.
• Ability to work night shifts, weekends and holidays as required.
• Strong problem-solving skills and teamwork abilities.
• Excellent communication skills in English; Spanish an advantage.

Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor the LSTs and subsystems, instruments, and computer systems to ensure data collection and performance.
• Collaborate with the LST Collaboration and CTAO staff to define night observation processes and end-of-shift reports.
• Document techniques used to operate the LSTs and develop operation documentation as new telescopes are added.
• Troubleshoot issues, communicate with the technical team, and support resolutions.
• Maintain familiarity with instrument configuration to provide back-up for other staff.
• Participate in outreach and educational activities to promote astronomy and the observatory’s mission.
• Adhere to safety protocols to ensure personnel and equipment safety.

Skills

Unix/Linux

Astronomical data analysis

Teamwork

English communication

Manual transmission driving

Education

Engineering or Technical Physics degree

Job description

CTAO seeks a CTAO-North Site Telescope Operator for its La Palma northern array. Initial focus on commissioning Cherenkov telescopes, followed by operating new instrumentation, telescopes, and calibration equipment.

Work with the LST Collaboration and CTAO staff to define night observation processes and retain operation documentation. Must be able to work night shifts at ORM, weekends, and holidays; English fluency required, Spanish a plus.