Astronomer IS-1330-07

Smithsonian Institution•Amado, AZ

7d•$51,417 - $66,843•Onsite

About The Position

The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory (SAO) is at the forefront, internationally, of the scientific exploration of the universe. SAO combines its resources with those of the Harvard College Observatory to form the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics (CfA). The CfA is the best-known astrophysics center in the world. Its programs range from ground-based astronomy and astrophysics research to space-based research, the engineering and development of major scientific instrumentation for space launch and use in large ground-based facilities, and research designed to improve science education. The research objectives of SAO are carried out primarily with the support of Government and Smithsonian Institution funds, with additional philanthropic support. Government funds are in the form of Federal appropriations or the form of contracts and grants from other agencies. In contrast, Institution funds are available to SAO through grants from the Institution's Restricted Funds, Special Purpose Funds, Bureau Activities, Business Activities, and non-Federal contracts and grants. SUMMARY The position serves as an Astronomical Observer supporting science and test operations of the VERITAS array of gamma-ray telescopes. The incumbent operates gamma-ray telescopes and associated instrumentation during scheduled observing shifts; monitors telescope, instrument, and environmental performance; acquires and evaluates astronomical imaging data; and supports visiting and staff astronomers during scientific and engineering observations. The position also contributes to the development, refinement, and improvement of observing procedures, operational documentation, and data acquisition and reduction workflows.

Requirements

Degree: in one or a combination of astronomy, physics, mathematics, space science, or electronics. The course work must have included differential and integral calculus and 12 semester hours in astronomy and/or physics.
Combination of education and experience -- at least 30 semester hours of courses equivalent to a major in any combination of astronomy, space science, physics, mathematics, and electronics, with required course work as shown in A above, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
One year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the IS-05 level. Specialized experience includes activities such as operating a telescope at a world class or university observatory, leading or assisting with astronomical or physics research, or writing or modifying computer software either professionally or as part of class work.
One full year of graduate-level education in astronomy, physics, astrophysics, or a closely related physical science may be substituted to meet the specialized experience requirement.
Superior Academic Achievement (SAA) may also be used to qualify. SAA is based on a bachelor’s degree with one of the following: A GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale for all completed undergraduate courses or those completed in the last two years of study; A GPA of 3.5 or higher on a 4.0 scale for courses in the major field of study or those completed in the last two years of study; Rank in the upper one-third of the graduating class; or Membership in a national scholastic honor society recognized by the Association of College Honor Societies.
Education and experience may be combined to meet qualification requirements.
Knowledge of astronomy, physics, and mathematics sufficient to perform developmental scientific tasks.
Skill in monitoring system performance to recognize normal conditions and report abnormalities.
Ability to organize and communicate technical information in logs and reports.
Ability to apply standard data-reduction methods and follow established scientific procedures.
Skill in using scientific software and programming tools at an introductory level.
Professional knowledge of astronomy, physics, mathematics, and related scientific principles sufficient to perform structured assignments; apply standard observational and analytical techniques; follow established scientific protocols; and use basic astronomical software tools.
Ability to read and interpret scientific instructions, apply standard methods, and recognize deviations in data or procedures.

Responsibilities

Operates VERITAS gamma-ray telescopes during scheduled science and test observing shifts from on-site or remote-control rooms including telescope startup and shutdown, instrument configuration, target acquisition, and execution of observing programs in accordance with approved observing plans.
Implements observing scripts, calibrations, and system checks; ensures data quality and instrument readiness; and monitors environmental and system conditions to maintain safe and optimal operations.
Acquires, processes, and evaluates gamma-ray astronomical data, including performing calibrations (e.g., mirror-alignment, pointing monitor, PSF, T-point, reflectivity, flat field, bias curves), assessing data quality, and conducting / monitoring preliminary data reduction and analysis to determine data completeness, integrity, and scientific usability.
Contributes to the development, testing, and improvement of telescope operations by participating in the refinement of observing procedures, operational documentation, instrumentation workflows, data reduction pipelines, and software tools supporting gamma-ray observations.
Participates in professional development, coordination, and communication activities, including preparing observing logs and technical reports, participating in meetings, and supporting training or outreach activities.
Assists in maintaining scientific databases, ensuring data integrity, updating metadata, and performing routine validation checks.
Performs related duties as assigned.