Adaptive Optics Specialist - Night Ops at a Leading Telescope

University of Arizona; Tucson (AZ); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Full Benefits

Job summary

The University of Arizona’s Large Binocular Telescope Observatory seeks an Adaptive Optics Specialist to conduct nighttime AO operations and help optimize LBTO AO systems. The role involves system setup, calibration, troubleshooting, and documentation to improve reliability and efficiency, with opportunities to contribute to ongoing AO projects on Mount Graham.

The position requires hands-on experience with astronomical instrumentation and a Bachelor’s degree in a related field, and entails

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Astronomy, Astrophysics, Optics, Physics, Engineering, or related field.
• Minimum of 3 years of relevant work experience.
• Ability to drive according to the University Fleet Safety Policy.
• Hands‑on experience in astronomical instrumentation or complex optical systems.

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

Astronomical instrumentation

Optical systems

Night-time support

Education

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

Tools

AO systems

Adaptive Optics

Telescope hardware

Job description

The University of Arizona’s Large Binocular Telescope Observatory seeks an Adaptive Optics Specialist to conduct nighttime AO operations and help optimize LBTO AO systems. The role involves system setup, calibration, troubleshooting, and documentation to improve reliability and efficiency, with opportunities to contribute to ongoing AO projects on Mount Graham.

The position requires hands-on experience with astronomical instrumentation and a Bachelor’s degree in a related field, and entails