Observatory Support Junior Associate

Observatory Support Junior Associate

The Large Binocular Telescope Observatory (LBTO) is among the most powerful optical/infrared telescopes in the world, with two 8.4m-diameter mirrors on a single mount, located on the summit of Mount Graham near Safford, Arizona. The Observatory features a sophisticated suite of instruments for optical and infrared imaging and spectroscopy, supported by innovative adaptive optics technologies. The LBT is driving discoveries for cosmic sources ranging from exoplanets around nearby stars, to some of the most distant galaxies in the universe. The observatory is operated by an international consortium of leading research institutions and functions administratively as part of the University of Arizona, with offices in Tucson.

The LBTO seeks an Observatory Support Junior Associate responsible for operating the Large Binocular Telescope and its systems in order to facilitate the collection of astronomical data. The OSA Junior works primarily at the observatory site on Mt Graham (3200m). The normal work schedule is a 7-night shift every third week. The OSA Junior will also support telescope and facility performance documentation and data quality monitoring and will maintain the safety of personnel and equipment during nighttime observations.

Outstanding UA benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; UA/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to UA recreation and cultural activities; and more!

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Operate the Large Binocular Telescope on Mt Graham during the night for engineering, science operations, and international partner observing.
• Execute telescope start-up procedures at evening twilight and shutdown procedures at morning twilight.
• Work with LBT service observers and/or partner observer scientists to collect world-class astronomical data.
• Be responsible on a nightly basis for the safety of personnel and equipment.
• Serve as mountain safety officer during night operation.
• Inspect premises to identify situations potentially dangerous or injurious to personnel or equipment; make real-time decisions regarding operation of the telescope and facility and its protection from adverse conditions.
• Control access to the observing floor and the telescope.
• Respond to emergency situations and provide first aid as needed.
• Configure and operate the LBTO guiding, active optics, and adaptive optics systems.
• In consultation with the observers, monitor real-time LBTO image quality and telescope performance.
• Monitor observing weather stations, including wind velocity, humidity and amount of dust present.
• Decide if weather conditions permit safe operation of the telescope in consultation with observers and technical personnel.
• Respond to real-time changes in conditions.
• Maintain nightly and end-of-shift operational log reports, including observed science targets, weather, safety, equipment and malfunction information.
• Notify appropriate personnel of malfunctions of equipment.
• Maintain good communication with daytime mountain staff members on operational issues.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge of the operation of astronomical facilities.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Detail-oriented in execution of tasks.
• Ability to work successfully as part of a team.

Physical/Environmental Requirements:

• Candidate must be able to perform duties at an altitude of 10,500 feet and travel up and down the mountain for their shift.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent advanced learning attained through professional-level experience required.
• Minimum of three years of relevant work experience, or equivalent combination of education and work experience.
• The position is based in Safford with regular work at the high-altitude Mt Graham telescope site required.
• Must have a valid driver's license and ability to drive according to the University Fleet Safety Policy.