Operations Scientist, Radio Astronomy & Science Verification

SKA Observatory; Jodrell Bank; On-site; AUD 170,000 - 245,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Visa and relocation support

30 days annual leave + public holidays

Generous pension scheme

Job summary

SKA Observatory is seeking an Operations Scientist to help establish the operational foundation for world-leading radio astronomy facilities. You will work from the SKAO Global Headquarters at Jodrell Bank or UK sites, coordinating with teams across Australia and South Africa.

The role emphasizes translating scientific requirements into operational practices, supporting commissioning, and engaging a diverse user community with strong communication skills.

Qualifications

• PhD or equivalent qualification in a closely related field.
• Experience operating astronomical facilities and supporting users.
• Ability to engage diverse stakeholders with strong communication.
• Expertise in radio astronomy techniques including data acquisition, reduction and analysis.
• Awareness of inclusive practices to enable broad observatory access.
• Experience supporting a global telescope user community.

Responsibilities

• Develop and refine the Operations and Science Verification plans.
• Define array assembly requirements and commissioning needs.
• Support Science Verification and Operations as arrays transition from construction to operations.
• Interface with the SKAO user community and promote SKAO activities.
• Develop software to operate SKA telescopes or support users.
• Collaborate with SKAO staff across sites in Australia, South Africa and UK.
• Support research up to 25% of employed hours.
• Undertake other duties as directed by the Head of Science Operations.

Skills

Scientific facility operations

User support

Stakeholder engagement

Radio astronomy techniques

Inclusive practices

User community experience

Education

PhD in Astronomy/Physics/Engineering

Job description

SKA Observatory is seeking an Operations Scientist to help establish the operational foundation for world-leading radio astronomy facilities. You will work from the SKAO Global Headquarters at Jodrell Bank or UK sites, coordinating with teams across Australia and South Africa.

The role emphasizes translating scientific requirements into operational practices, supporting commissioning, and engaging a diverse user community with strong communication skills.