Adaptive Optics Scientist II, Large Binocular Telescope Observatory

UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA; Tucson (AZ); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Arizona (LBTO) is seeking an Adaptive Optics Scientist II to support operation, optimization, and development of the LBTO AO systems. The role spans from requirements and design through deployment, serving as an AO systems expert within observatory operations.

The incumbent will contribute to ongoing projects including spare ASM, electronics upgrades, AO automation, and turbulence profiler enhancements, with occasional night shifts and site travel as needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Astronomy, Astrophysics, Optics, Physics, Engineering, or related field or equivalent experience.
• Minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience.
• Hands-on experience with adaptive optics or observational equipment preferred.

Responsibilities

• Execute nighttime AO operations to maximize system throughput.
• Lead troubleshooting and on-site hardware repairs to minimize downtime.
• Calibrate, characterize, and tune AO systems for peak performance.
• Oversee technical documentation and procedure development for AO operations and safety.
• Lead projects to design, develop, and commission new AO capabilities.

Skills

AO experience

Astronomical instrumentation

Flexible hours

Education

Bachelor’s degree in related field

Master’s or PhD preferred

Job description

Adaptive Optics Scientist II, Large Binocular Telescope Observatory (Multiple Positions)

Adaptive Optics Scientist II, Large Binocular Telescope Observatory (Multiple Positions)

Posting Number req26910

Department Large Binocular Telescope Obs

Department Website Link https://www.lbto.org

Location Tucson Campus

Address 933 N Cherry Avenue, Tucson, AZ 85721 USA

Position Highlights

The Large Binocular Telescope Observatory (LBTO) is among the most powerful optical/infrared telescopes in the world, with two 8.4m-diameter mirrors on a single mount, located on the summit of Mount Graham near Safford, Arizona. The Observatory features a sophisticated suite of instruments for optical and infrared imaging and spectroscopy, supported by Adaptive Optics. The LBT is driving discoveries of cosmic sources ranging from exoplanets around nearby stars, to some of the most distant galaxies in the universe. The Observatory is operated by an international consortium of leading research institutions and functions administratively as part of the University of Arizona, with offices in Tucson.

The LBTO has been at the forefront in demonstrating innovative Adaptive Optics (AO) technologies, with its recent call for new instrument concepts attracting further cutting‑edge AO proposals. The Observatory seeks an Adaptive Optics Scientist II to support the operation, optimization, and ongoing development of the LBTO AO systems across their full lifecycle, from initial requirements and design to full astrophysical deployment. The incumbent will serve as a technical expert on LBTO AO systems and their seamless integration into observatory operations.

The LBTO Adaptive Optics team is actively working to enhance system robustness while boosting system performance and efficiency. Major ongoing projects include developing a spare Adaptive Secondary Mirror (ASM), upgrading ASM electronics, expanding AO automation, and building new turbulence profilers. The incumbent will have the opportunity to participate in these initiatives.

Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more!

The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work‑life programs. For more information about working at the University of Arizona and relocations services, please .

Duties & Responsibilities

• Execute nighttime AO operations to maximize system throughput and enable top-tier scientific output.
• Lead troubleshooting for technical issues and participate in on‑site hardware repairs at the telescope facility to minimize downtime.
• Lead specific aspects of the calibration, characterization, and fine‑tuning of AO systems to ensure consistent peak performance.
• Oversee technical documentation and procedure development to enhance operational efficiency. Serve as an expert resource on AO systems, operations, and safety.
• Lead projects for the design, development, and commissioning of new AO capabilities to transition them smoothly into daily operations.

Knowledge,Skills, and Abilities (KSAs)

• Ability and willingness to work flexible hours, including night‑time support and periodic weekend, holiday, or on‑call shifts.

PhysicalRequirements and Environmental Demands

• Ability to travel to the remote observatory site and work safely at an elevation of 10,500 feet.
• Ability to perform hands‑on hardware maintenance at the telescope facility, lifting 30–50 lbs. and working within confined instrument areas.

This job posting reflects the general nature and level of work expected of the selected candidate(s). It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The institution reserves the right to amend or update this description as organizational priorities and institutional needs evolve.

Compensation Guidance The Rate of Pay Field represents the University of Arizona’s good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. The University considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, education/training, key skills, and internal equity.
The Grade Range represent a full range of career compensation growth over time. The university offers compensation growth opportunities within its career architecture. To learn more about compensation, please review our Applicant Compensation Guide and our Total Rewards Calculator .

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Astronomy, Astrophysics, Optics, Physics, Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent advanced learning attained through professional level experience.
• Minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience, or equivalent combination of education and work experience.
• Abilityto drive according to the UniversityFleet Safety Policy .
• Master’s degree or Ph.D. in a relevant discipline preferred.
• Hands‑on experience in astronomical instrumentation or complex optical systems.
• One or more years of practical experience working with Adaptive Optics or observational equipment preferred.

FLSA Exempt

Full Time/Part Time Full Time

Number of Hours Worked per Week 40

Job FTE 1.0

Work Calendar Fiscal

Job Category Research

Benefits Eligible Yes - Full Benefits

Rate of Pay DOE

Compensation Type salary at 1.0 full-time equivalency (FTE)

Grade 9

Career Stream and Level PC3

Job Family Research & Lab

Job Function Research

Type of criminal background check required: Name-based criminal background check (non-security sensitive)

Number of Vacancies 1

Target Hire Date

Expected End Date

Contact Information for Candidates Sam Ragland
LBTO Adaptive Optics Head
[e-mail]

Open Date 8/31/2026

Open Until Filled Yes

Documents Needed to Apply Resume and Cover Letter

Special Instructions to Applicant

Notice of Availability of the Annual Security and Fire Safety Report In compliance with the Jeanne Clery Campus Safety Act (Clery Act), each year the University of Arizona releases an Annual Security Report (ASR) for each of the University’s campuses.Thesereports disclose information including Clery crime statistics for the previous three calendar years and policies, procedures, and programs the University uses to keep students and employees safe, including how to report crimes or other emergencies and resources for crime victims. As a campus with residential housing facilities, the Main Campus ASR also includes a combined Annual Fire Safety report with information on fire statistics and fire safety systems, policies, and procedures.
Paper copies of the Reports can be obtained by contacting the University Compliance Office at [e-mail].