Rubin Active Optics Control Scientist
About The Position
The Active Optics Control Scientist will lead optimization of the Vera C. Rubin Observatory’s active optics performance during operational commissioning and survey operations. The role focuses on improving on-sky performance, control algorithms, delivered image quality, control software, and the end-to-end active optics pipeline. The scientist will work with colleagues across an international organization to help ensure the observatory achieves the image quality required for its scientific mission. The position may be based in Tucson, Arizona, or La Serena, Chile. It offers the opportunity to work on a sophisticated active optics system at a major astronomical facility and contribute to the Legacy Survey of Space and Time. The role requires domestic and international travel, including to observatory locations.
Requirements
- PhD in Astronomy, Optical Sciences, Physics, or a related discipline.
- At least 3 years of experience developing, commissioning, or operating active optics or adaptive optics systems.
- Strong background in controls theory and control algorithm development.
- Experience with simulation, modeling, and analytical tools.
- Proficiency in Python or a comparable scientific programming language.
- Ability and willingness to travel domestically and internationally, including to observatory locations.
Nice To Haves
- Telescope or large scientific facility commissioning experience.
- Hands-on experience with optical control systems, laboratory optical testbeds, or precision instrumentation.
- Expertise using Zemax, Code V, or similar optical modeling tools.
- Experience with Git/GitHub-based software development workflows.
- Success working within globally distributed technical teams.
- Strong technical writing and scientific communication skills.
Responsibilities
- Evaluate and improve on-sky active optics performance.
- Lead the optimization of active optics control algorithms.
- Analyze delivered image quality and identify performance improvements.
- Streamline, standardize, and modernize active optics control software.
- Drive end-to-end optimization of the active optics pipeline to reduce latency and execution time.
- Collaborate with scientists, software engineers, optical engineers, and operations teams across an international organization.
- Help ensure Rubin consistently achieves the image quality required for its scientific mission.
Benefits
- Paid time off.
- Retirement plan contributions.
- Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
- Attractive work environment.
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
Education Level
Ph.D. or professional degree
