Night Attendant

W. M. Keck Observatory; Waimea/Kamuela (HI); On-site; USD 25,000 - 29,000; Full time

Job summary

The Night Attendant role at W. M. Keck Observatory on the Maunakea Summit supports safe, secure night operations. The position involves monitoring telescope and external conditions, addressing issues, and performing troubleshooting as needed.

A high school diploma is required along with three years of relevant experience, basic computer skills, and a valid driver’s license; some day shifts may be requested for specific tasks or training.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Three (3) years of work experience in a responsible position.
• Basic computer skills with office productivity software for e-mail, word processing, and spreadsheets.
• Valid driver's license and clean abstract.

Responsibilities

• Monitor telescope and external conditions to maintain a safe, secure night environment.
• Address issues as they arise and perform troubleshooting during night operations.
• Support night operations with routine tasks and occasional day shifts for specific tasks or training.

Skills

Basic computer skills

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Shop tools operation

Job description

Night Attendant

Application Deadline: 27 November 2026

Department: Observing Support

Employment Type: Full Time

Location: Maunakea Summit

Reporting To: Night Attendant Supervisor

Compensation: $18.31 - $21.06 / hour

Description

Spend your nights as a Night Attendant on the summit of Maunakea!

Are you passionate about maintaining a safe and efficient work environment? Are you enthusiastic about troubleshooting? Do you do your best work at night? If so, we have an exciting opportunity for you at the W. M. Keck Observatory!

Why Choose W. M. Keck Observatory:

• Competitive starting salary
• Comprehensive, employer provided health insurance.
• Be a part of a dedicated team working on the frontiers of astronomy.

About W. M. Keck Observatory: With acknowledgment and profound respect for the cultural, ecological, and scientific significance of Maunakea, W. M. Keck Observatory offers astronomers a unique vista to explore the universe. Our twin telescopes are at the forefront of astronomical discovery, offering transformative insights into the cosmos. We are dedicated to service, stewardship, and our community, all while advancing our mission to unlock the mysteries of the universe. Join us in this endeavor!

How the Night Attendant Attends to the Night:

Reporting to the Night Attendant Supervisor the Night Attendant helps maintain a safe, secure, and stable environment during night operations at the observatory. The Night Attendant contributes to smooth operations by monitoring telescope and external conditions, addressing issues as they arise, and performing troubleshooting when needed. While the position primarily involves night work, occasional day shifts may be requested to support specific tasks or training activities.

Required Qualifications:

Education

• High school diploma or equivalent.

Experience

• Three (3) years of work experience in a responsible position (possible time combined of work and education).

Skills

• Basic computer skills with office productivity software for e-mail, word processing, and spreadsheets.

Technical Competencies

• Ability to operate common maintenance shop hand and machine tools

Certificates and Licenses

• Valid driver's license and clean abstract