Observatory Operations Specialist

Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy; Tucson (AZ); On-site; USD 53,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Benefits package

Retirement plan

Job summary

Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy seeks an Assistant Queue Observer to support NEID spectrograph operations at the WIYN 3.5-meter Telescope in Arizona. You will work with scientists and engineers to execute observations, monitor instrument performance, and help maximize scientific output.

This hands-on role emphasizes instrument operations, data quality checks, troubleshooting, and collaboration across observatory teams. Weekend and night shifts expected.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Astronomy, Physics, Engineering, or related field or equivalent experience.
• Experience with astronomical observing, instrumentation, or complex technical equipment.
• Strong understanding of physics, astronomy, engineering or related disciplines.
• Excellent written and verbal communication; reliable and detail oriented.

Responsibilities

• Execute queue-scheduled observations with the NEID spectrograph on the WIYN 3.5m telescope.
• Operate and monitor NEID and subsystems during shifts and calibrations.
• Perform nightly and daytime instrument calibrations and checks.
• Evaluate instrument performance via data quality checks and quick-look analysis.
• Adjust observing plans in real time based on conditions and priorities.
• Maintain observing logs and status documentation.

Skills

Observational astronomy

Instrument operation

Data quality

Analytical thinking

Communication

Teamwork

English fluency

Learning ability

Education

Bachelor's degree in Astronomy

Bachelor's degree in Physics

Master's degree preferred

Tools

Python

Linux

Java

Perl

Job description

Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy seeks an Assistant Queue Observer to support NEID spectrograph operations at the WIYN 3.5-meter Telescope in Arizona. You will work with scientists and engineers to execute observations, monitor instrument performance, and help maximize scientific output.

This hands-on role emphasizes instrument operations, data quality checks, troubleshooting, and collaboration across observatory teams. Weekend and night shifts expected.