Support Astronomer

NMSU; New Mexico; Remote; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

The Department of Astronomy at New Mexico State University seeks a Support Astronomer to operate telescopes and assist in data collection and analysis at Apache Point Observatory. This position requires a Master’s degree and three years of relevant experience. The job includes oversight of telescope operations and collaboration with visiting astronomers. Candidates must have strong technical skills and effective communication capabilities while working in a challenging remote environment.

Qualifications

• Master's degree required, or Bachelor with 5 years experience.
• 3 years experience with telescopes and astronomical data.
• Skills in data analysis and effective communication are critical.

Responsibilities

• Operate the 3.5m telescope and associated instruments.
• Provide technical and scientific support to astronomers.
• Assist in data analysis and ensure proper operation of telescopes.

Skills

Data analysis

Telescope operation

Problem analysis and resolution

Oral communication

Written communication

Public relations

Education

Master's degree in a related field

Bachelor's degree with 5 years experience

Job description

PositionTitle: Support Astronomer

Employee Classification: Support Astronomer

College/Division: Arts and Sciences College

Department: 330300-ASTRONOMY

Internal or External Search:Internal/Private - by invitation to apply only

Location: Remote

Offsite Location (if applicable): Sunspot, NM

Target Hourly/Salary Rate: Commensurate with qualifications

Appointment Full-time Equivalency: 1.0

Exempt or Non-Exempt: Exempt

Summary: The Department of Astronomy at New Mexico State University, a research-focused academic unit dedicated to excellence in education and discovery, invites you to apply for an available position at Apache Point Observatory located in Sunspot, New Mexico.

Classification Summary:
Operates telescopes and/or associated instrumentation to obtain astronomical data and/or assists Assists visiting astronomers in obtaining high quality observational data. Provides technical, scientific and logistical support to astronomers before, during, and after their observing runs a the telescope, including assistance with data analysis. Performs general and specific commissioning of the telescope and instruments. Conducts astronomical research.

Classification Standard Duties:
Supervise, direct, delegate, and evaluate work of assigned staff. Plan observing strategy for facilities where applicable. Perform quality assurance tests of telescope, instruments, and acquired data. Collaborate with colleagues in survey project preparing scientific results where applicable. Operate facilities to acquire scientific data. Develop commissioning plans for facilities and operational procedures. Perform commissioning tests, prepare reports. Perform periodic engineering tests and procedures, analyze and interpret results. Work with engineering staff to maintain and improve facilities. Interface with other project staff a different institutions regarding survey issues and progress. Perform related duties as required.

Required Education, Experience, Certification/License, Equivalency
Required Education:Master's degree in a related field.; Required Experience:Three (3) years of professional experience with modern astronomical spectrographic and/or imaging instruments, moderate to large telescopes, and astronomical data reductions with demonstrated successes in astronomical research.; Equivalency:Doctorate that includes observing experience (no additional experience needed), or Bachelor degree in a related field and five (5) years of experience related to the standard duties as outlined.; Required Certification/License:

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
KNOWLEDGE:University and department policies and procedures; principles and practices of organization and administration; principles of supervision, training, and performance evaluation, telescope control systems, analysis of CCD images/spectra.; SKILLS:Short- and long-range planning; problem analysis and resolution; report preparation and presentation; public contact and relations; oral and written communication, technical, mechanical and engineering, computer, electronics.; ABILITIES:Direct, evaluate, train, and supervise the work of assigned personnel; develop and maintain effective working relationships; maintain accurate and orderly records; use independent judgment and initiative; organize and direct activities; analyze and evaluate information, operate large astronomical telescopes.

Job Duties and Responsibilities
Support Astronomer (SA) is responsible for nightly operation of the 3.5m telescope and instruments, monitoring the data streams, tracking system performance and observing efficiency. The SA works closely with Astronomers and students, operating the telescope and instruments remotely, efficiently take observations and debug issues. They work with other night staff to monitor to the facility, weather and safe and proper operation of the telescopes. The selected candidate will perform setup/instrument preparations and calibrations, service observing and monitoring of remotely operated telescopes.Monitoring the performance of equipment and effectively communicating any problems with the day engineering and IT staff is required.

Preferred Qualifications

Special Requirements of the Position

Department Contact: William Ketzeback, 575-437-6822, [e-mail]

Contingent Upon Funding:Contingent upon external funding

Bargaining Unit Eligibility:This is NOT a bargaining unit position with American Federation of State, County & Municipal Employees (AFSCME).

Standard Work Schedule:Shift: Other Shift

If Not a Standard Work Schedule:Monday – Sunday 8pm to 6am, night shift, afternoons, weekends or holidays may be required

Working Conditions and Physical Effort

Environment: Work involves moderate exposure to unusual elements, such as extreme temperatures, dirt, dust, fumes, smoke, unpleasant odors, and/or loud noises.

Physical Effort: Moderate physical activity.

Lifting Requirements: Requires handling of average-weight objects up to 25 pounds or standing and/or walking for more than four (4) hours per day.

Risk: Work environment involves some exposure to hazards or physical risks, which require following basic safety precautions.