Adaptive Optics Specialist, Large Binocular Telescope Observatory (Multiple Positions)

Phase2 Technology; Tucson (AZ); On-site; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Paid time off

Job summary

The University of Arizona's Large Binocular Telescope Observatory is seeking an Adaptive Optics Specialist to perform nighttime AO operations and help optimize AO systems for cutting-edge astronomy, including maintenance and calibration tasks. The role encompasses troubleshooting, documentation, and integration of new equipment into daily observatory duties.

Ideal candidates will have a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field and at least 3 years of experience, with readiness for flexible night

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Astronomy, Astrophysics, Optics, Physics, Engineering, or related field.
• Minimum 3 years of relevant work experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Ability to drive according to the University Fleet Safety Policy.

Responsibilities

• Execute nighttime AO operations to ensure successful scientific return.
• Perform setup and checkout of AO systems, and assist with calibration, characterization, and finetuning to ensure consistent peak performance.
• Diagnose technical issues and assist with on-site hardware repairs at the telescope facility to minimize system downtime.
• Generate AO system documentation and develop procedures to improve system reliability and team efficiency.
• Assist with the development and commissioning of new equipment to transition it seamlessly into daily operations.

Skills

Night shift readiness

Education

Bachelor's degree in Astronomy, Astrophysics, Optics, Physics, Engineering, or related field

Tools

Astronomical instrumentation

Optical systems

Job description

Adaptive Optics Specialist, Large Binocular Telescope Observatory (Multiple Positions)

Location: Tucson Campus, Tucson, AZ USA

Department: Large Binocular Telescope Obs

Address: Tucson, AZ USA

Posting Number: req26815

Position Highlights

The University of Arizona's Large Binocular Telescope Observatory invites you to apply to the role of Adaptive Optics Specialist. 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 for 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 Specialist to conduct nighttime operations while assisting in the optimization and ongoing development of the LBTO AO systems. The incumbent will contribute to system troubleshooting and enhancements and support their seamless integration into observatory operations, while developing expanded expertise relevant to LBTO AO systems.

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 ensure successful scientific return.
• Perform setup and checkout of AO systems, and assist with calibration, characterization, and finetuning to ensure consistent peak performance.
• Diagnose technical issues and assist with on-site hardware repairs at the telescope facility to minimize system downtime.
• Generate AO system documentation and develop procedures to improve system reliability and team efficiency.
• Assist with the development and commissioning of new equipment to transition it seamlessly into daily operations.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

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

Physical/Environmental Requirements

• 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.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Astronomy, Astrophysics, Optics, Physics, Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent advanced learning attained through experience.
• Minimum of 3 years of relevant work experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Ability to drive according to the University Fleet Safety Policy.

Preferred Qualifications

• Hands‑on experience in astronomical instrumentation or complex optical systems.

Employment Details

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: 8

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.
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.

Career Stream and Level

PC2

Job Family

Research & Lab

Job Function

Research

Type of Criminal Background Check Required

Name-based criminal background check (non-security sensitive)

Contact Information

Sam Ragland, Ph.D.
Head, Adaptive Optics Group
Research Professor, Large Binocular Telescope Observatory
[e-mail]