Servo/Fiber Technician III-IV - Technical Specialist I-II

Associated Universities Inc. • Socorro, NM

30d • $20 - $36 • Onsite

About The Position

The National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO), managed by Associated Universities, Inc. (AUI), is a leading research organization operating state-of-the-art radio telescope facilities. This hands-on position supports operations, maintenance, and fabrication of antenna motion control electronics and fiber optic hardware. Responsibilities include repairs, maintenance, and upgrades to the Very Large Array (VLA) and Very Long Baseline Array (VLBA) Servo and Fiber Optic systems. The role involves both bench work and field work, including climbing 25-meter antennas at the VLA site. The final position and grade will be determined by the candidate's education and experience. Knowledge of electronic components and schematics is preferred, and training in fiber optics will be provided. This position is based at the VLA site, west of Socorro, NM. The candidate will be required to respond to emergency call-outs during inclement weather, late nights, or early mornings.

Requirements

• An associate's degree or higher.
• Minimum two years of related experience.
• Ability to work independently and reliably with minimal supervision.
• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Must be able to distinguish colors properly.
• Must be able to operate a personal computer.
• Ability to work effectively in a team and clearly communicate technical information both in writing and orally.
• Ability to communicate in English is required.
• Must have a valid driver’s license.
• During the first six months, candidate must pass any applicable knowledge/skills tests including soldering small components using a microscope and ability to work with fiber optics.
• Observatory employees must be authorized to work in the United States.
• The Observatory presently cannot sponsor H-1B Visas for this position.
• Selected candidate must successfully pass a post-offer, pre-employment/pre-placement drug screen.

Nice To Haves

• Three or more years of experience specializing in servo and/or fiber support is preferred.
• Knowledge of electronic components and schematics is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Assembly, testing, troubleshooting, and training for Antenna Control Units (ACUs), data and communications equipment, servo systems, motors, on-antenna weather stations and other equipment.
• Construct, adapt, and calibrate assigned equipment.
• Troubleshoot, correct, and repair malfunctioning equipment.
• Conduct various tests or experiments which may require modifications in test setups or procedures.
• Record, analyze, and interpret test data.
• Use standard electronic test equipment (digital multimeter, spectrum analyzers, oscilloscopes, signal generator, power supplies) to record unit performance, for inspection, adjustment, and/or replacement of defective system components.
• Use hand tools for mechanical work or repair.
• Monitor, inspect, and maintain assigned Servo and Fiber Optic group systems for proper operation.
• Discuss the design, layout, assembly, testing and troubleshooting procedures and problems of parts and modules with engineers and technical staff.
• Devise design details and functional requirements of assemblies.
• Fabricate, assemble, and test prototype or production units.
• Set up standard test apparatus or devise test equipment to conduct functional, operational, environmental, and life tests to evaluate the performance and reliability of prototype or production units.
• Locate and order parts and equipment, and locate and evaluate substitute parts for functional equivalence of any obsolete/non-obtainable components or parts.
• Write technical reports and develop charts, graphs, and schematics to describe and illustrate an assembly's operating characteristics, malfunctions, deviations from design specifications, and functional limitations.
• Recommend changes required to achieve functional requirements of the units.
• Follow project schedules set by supervisors.
• Demonstrate proactive compliance with all NRAO policies and procedures.

Benefits

• Excellent paid time off (13 holidays, annual accrual of up to 24 vacation days)
• Medical, dental and vision plans are effective on the first day of employment.
• AUI’s retirement benefit contributes an amount equal to 10 percent of a qualified participant’s base pay with no required employee contribution.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Associate degree