Operations Scientist

Big Science Sweden; Jodrell Bank; Remote; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

SKAO is seeking an Operations Scientist to join the team at the Global Headquarters, Jodrell Bank, UK. The role contributes to establishing the operational foundation for the SKA radio astronomy facility, coordinating with engineers and scientists across stations, and supporting the planning and execution of commissioning and verification.

The appointee will communicate across diverse user communities and help translate scientific requirements into robust operations.

Job description

The SKAO Operations group is seeking to employ a talented and motivated Operations Scientist to join our team based in the SKAO Global Headquarters located at Jodrell Bank in the UK. With both SKA-Low and SKA-Mid now in the construction and commissioning phases, planning for operations has entered an exciting phase. In order to support our planning, this role will play a key part in establishing the operational foundation of a world-leading radio astronomy facility. We are seeking a scientist with experience in the operation of astronomical facilities and a strong understanding of radio astronomy instrumentation, data processing and scientific analysis. Equally important is experience supporting a diverse user community and translating scientific requirements into effective operational practices.

The successful candidate will be highly skilled in communication, as well as in collaborative and inclusive work practices. They will draw on their experience and expertise within their established networks and the broader astronomical community to inform the detailed SKAO operational plan and policies. They will also be required to support the planning and execution of scientific commissioning and verification for the SKAO.

The appointee will be encouraged to carry out research up to 25% of employed hours. Appropriate support, including conference travel, will be provided.

This role will be basedat the SKAO Headquarters at Jodrell Bank, Cheshire, UK.

SKAO is committed to providing an inclusive and flexible working environment, meeting the requests of our Colleagues whilst also fulfilling the needs and objectives of the Observatory. These roles may be offered on a full-time, part-time or job share basis. Please raise your preference in your application.

Due to the locations involved in the SKA project, in particular the UK and Australia, this role requires the post holder to work across different time zones and, in line with SKAO policy, flexible working hours will be supported in agreement with the line manager.