Observatory Research Engineer: Telescope Systems

Caltech; California (MO); On-site; USD 80,000 - 112,700; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Retirement savings plans

Paid time off

Tuition reimbursement

Job summary

Caltech is seeking a technician for observatory instrumentation on Palomar Mountain, San Diego, CA. You will ensure proper installation and operation of scientific instruments on the P200 telescope and support remotely operated P60 and P48 telescopes as needed.

Responsibilities include troubleshooting, testing, and repairing telescope software and hardware, training customers, and contributing to planning and implementation of new observatory subsystems.

Qualifications

• An undergraduate degree in a scientific, technology, engineering, or mathematics field is required.
• Proficiency with Windows and Linux operating systems is required.
• Experience with scripting languages such as Python, MATLAB, and IRAF.
• Ability to lift 50 pounds and work safely in confined or elevated environments.
• Must hold a valid driver's license at hire and maintain it.

Responsibilities

• Confirm proper daily installation and performance of instrumentation on the P200 telescope.
• Design, troubleshoot, and test telescope software and hardware components.
• Train scientists and engineers in the use of installed tooling.
• Troubleshoot and repair observatory systems and instrumentation.
• Contribute to planning and upgrades of observatory subsystems.

Skills

Computing and software troubleshooting

Windows proficiency

Linux proficiency

Physical stamina

Altitude work safety

Driver's license

Education

Undergraduate degree in STEM fields

Astronomy degree (preferred)

Tools

Python

MATLAB

IRAF

C programming

Job description

Caltech is seeking a technician for observatory instrumentation on Palomar Mountain, San Diego, CA. You will ensure proper installation and operation of scientific instruments on the P200 telescope and support remotely operated P60 and P48 telescopes as needed.

Responsibilities include troubleshooting, testing, and repairing telescope software and hardware, training customers, and contributing to planning and implementation of new observatory subsystems.