Assistant Queue Observer

Aura Astronomy; Tucson, Northern (AZ, KY); Hybrid; USD 53,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Aura Astronomy in the United States is seeking an Assistant Queue Observer to support the NEID spectrograph at WIYN. You will work with scientists, engineers, and observatory staff to execute observations and monitor instrument performance.

You will perform calibrations, data quality checks, and real-time adjustments to observing plans. The role involves maintaining detailed logs and collaborating on instrument development and operational improvements.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Astronomy, Physics, Engineering or related field or equivalent experience.
• Experience with astronomical observing or scientific instrumentation.
• Understanding of physics, astronomy, engineering, electronics or related disciplines.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to learn and operate sophisticated instrumentation and software systems.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrated initiative, reliability, and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and in a team.

Responsibilities

• Execute queue-scheduled observations using the NEID spectrograph at the WIYN 3.5-meter Telescope.
• Operate and monitor the NEID spectrograph and related systems during observing shifts.
• Perform nightly and daytime instrument calibrations.
• Evaluate instrument performance through routine data quality checks and quick-look analysis.
• Adjust observing plans in real time based on weather, telescope conditions and priorities.
• Maintain detailed observing logs and documentation of instrument status.
• Cross-train in WIYN telescope operations and support observatory instrumentation.
• Assist Queue Coordinator with observing schedule development and observation tracking.
• Contribute to projects that enhance observatory efficiency and scientific productivity.

Skills

Bachelor's degree

Analytical skills

Problem solving

Communication skills

Teamwork

Education

Bachelor's degree in Astronomy Physics Engineering

Master's degree (preferred)

Tools

Linux/Unix

Python

Java

Perl

Job description

Are you passionate about astronomy, observational science, and advanced instrumentation? Do you enjoy working at the intersection of science, technology, and discovery?

We are seeking an Assistant Queue Observer to support operations of the NEID spectrograph, a state-of-the-art instrument designed to detect and characterize exoplanets through ultra-precise radial velocity measurements. In this role, you will work directly with scientists, engineers, and observatory staff to execute observations, monitor instrument performance, support telescope operations, and help maximize the scientific impact of one of the world's premier astronomical facilities.

This is an exceptional opportunity for candidates with backgrounds in astronomy, physics, engineering, or related technical disciplines who want hands-on experience with cutting-edge astronomical instrumentation and scientific operations.

What you'll do

Scientific Observations & Instrument Operations

• Execute queue-scheduled observations using the NEID spectrograph at the WIYN 3.5-meter Telescope.
• Operate and monitor the NEID spectrograph and associated systems during scheduled observing shifts.
• Perform nightly and daytime instrument calibrations.
• Evaluate instrument performance through routine data quality checks and quick-look analysis.
• Adjust observing plans in real time based on weather, telescope conditions, and scientific priorities.
• Maintain detailed observing logs and documentation of instrument and system status.

Technical Operations & Troubleshooting

• Support day and night operations of the NEID instrument and related subsystems.
• Identify, troubleshoot, and help resolve technical issues affecting observations or instrument performance.
• Participate in preventative maintenance and system upkeep activities.
• Assist with engineering tests, commissioning activities, and scientific verification projects.
• Collaborate with scientists and engineers on operational improvements and instrument development efforts.

Observatory Support

• Cross-train in WIYN telescope operations.
• Support additional observatory instrumentation through calibrations and user assistance.
• Assist the Queue Coordinator with observing schedule development and observation tracking.
• Contribute to projects that enhance observatory efficiency and scientific productivity.

What we're looking for

Required qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Astronomy, Physics, Engineering, or a related scientific or technical discipline; or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
• Experience with astronomical observing, scientific instrumentation, laboratory systems, or other complex technical equipment.
• Understanding of physics, astronomy, engineering, electronics, or closely related disciplines.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to learn and operate sophisticated instrumentation and software systems.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrated initiative, reliability, and attention to detail.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a collaborative team.

Preferred Qualifications

• Professional experience operating telescopes, observatory systems, or scientific instrumentation.
• Master's degree in Astronomy, Physics, Engineering, or a related field.
• Experience with spectroscopic instrumentation or spectroscopic data analysis.
• Programming experience in Linux/Unix environments and languages such as Python, Java, or Perl.
• Experience with queue-scheduled observing programs.
• Familiarity with astronomical data acquisition and reduction techniques.

This position is ideal for individuals who enjoy a dynamic, hands-on scientific environment and are comfortable working nontraditional schedules in support of world-class research.

The successful candidate must:

• Be willing to work approximately 10-14 nights per month at Kitt Peak National Observatory.
• Be available to work weekends, holidays, and occasional extended shifts as operational needs require.
• Be able to work at an elevation of approximately 6,800 feet.
• Complete required safety training, including First Aid, CPR/AED, and other required certifications.

The NSF NOIRLab is the preeminent US national center for ground-based, nighttime optical and infrared astronomy. NOIRLab is a Federally Funded Research and Development Center (FFRDC) which operates as a matrix organization, providing services across a range of programs: Gemini, Rubin, MSO (CTIO and KPNO), and CSDC; with facilities in three geographic locations: Arizona, Chile and Hawai'i. The mission of NOIRLab is to enable breakthrough discoveries in astrophysics by developing and operating state-of-the-art ground-based observatories and providing data products and services for our community.

As an Assistant Queue Observer, you will play a direct role in enabling groundbreaking astronomical research and exoplanet discovery. You'll gain experience operating advanced astronomical instrumentation, collaborate with leading scientists and engineers, and contribute to observations that help answer some of the most compelling questions in modern astronomy.

If you're excited by observational astronomy, advanced instrumentation, and supporting scientific discovery, we'd love to hear from you.

Salary Range: $53,000 – $65,000 per year. The final salary will depend on skills, qualifications and experience.

AURA offers an excellent benefits package including paid time off and retirement plan contributions, competitive salary commensurate with experience, and a very attractive work environment. Details on benefits can be found atBenefits by Location - Aura Human Resources

Preference will be given to qualified internal candidates and qualified Native Americans living on or near the Tohono O'odham reservation.

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.