Observatory Support Associate (Safford, AZ)

Observatory Support Associate (Safford, AZ)

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Position Highlights

The Large Binocular Telescope Observatory (LBTO) is among the world's most powerful optical / infrared telescopes, 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 Associate responsible for operating the Large Binocular Telescope and its systems to facilitate astronomical data collection. The OSA works primarily at the observatory site on Mt Graham (3200m). The normal work schedule is a 7-night shift every third week. The OSA will also support telescope and facility performance documentation and data quality monitoring, and will maintain the safety of personnel and equipment during nighttime observations.

The University of Arizona offers benefits including health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; tuition reduction for employees and qualified family members; retirement plans; and access to UA recreation and cultural activities.

The University of Arizona recognizes innovative work-life programs. For more information about working at the University of Arizona and relocation services, please visit the official job posting.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Independently operate, maintain, and troubleshoot 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.
• Liaise with LBT service observers and / or partner observer scientists to efficiently collect world-class astronomical data.
• Identify improvements to observing efficiency.
• 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.
• Advise observers / scientists on feasibility of specific types of observations based on these parameters.
• 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 weather conditions.
• Advise observers on strategies to adapt programs to increase feasibility in light of environmental conditions.
• Prepare nightly and end-of-shift operational log reports.
• Serve as a high-level resource on telescope performance and notify appropriate personnel of malfunctions of equipment or opportunities for improvement.
• Perform corrective actions in consultation with other observatory personnel.
• Maintain good communication with daytime mountain staff members on operational issues.
• Attend daily observatory-wide telescope planning meetings on-shift and provide technical input and guidance.

Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities

Physical / Environmental Requirements

Minimum Qualifications

Preferred Qualifications

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