Telescope Mechanic I

Associated Universities Inc. • Green Bank, WV

4d • $21 - $24 • Onsite

About The Position

The National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO), managed by Associated Universities, Inc. (AUI), is a leading research and development organization focused on the study of the universe. NRAO operates state-of-the-art radio telescope facilities for international scientists and has been crucial in understanding black holes, galaxies, and the early universe. This is a full-time, entry-level Telescope Mechanic position at the Green Bank Observatory (GBO) in Green Bank, WV. The role involves providing routine maintenance, construction, installation, testing, repair, and maintenance of radio telescopes and associated equipment used for collecting radio astronomical data. This is a safety-sensitive position.

Requirements

• Minimum of a High School diploma or general education degree (GED).
• Minimum of 2 years of experience; or equivalent combination of relevant education and experience.
• Strong verbal communication skills.
• Ability to participate effectively as a member of a team.
• Must be able to use the NRAO online time reporting and requisition system.
• Ability to read and interpret documents such as schematics, blueprints, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
• The ability to climb antenna stairs and ladders to heights above 100 feet.
• Ability to lift equipment up to 50 pounds (unassisted).
• Must possess visual acuity (corrected is acceptable) and manual dexterity.
• Must possess hearing acuity.
• Must hold and maintain a valid West Virginia Driver’s license.
• Must be authorized to work in the United States.
• Must successfully pass a post-offer, pre-employment/pre-placement drug screen.

Nice To Haves

• Mechanical work, industrial or other.
• Maintenance of heavy equipment.
• Some welding.
• Industrial spray painting.
• A working knowledge of machine shop, welding, and electrical techniques and procedures.

Responsibilities

• Responds to routine maintenance, installation, testing, calibration, repair, and troubleshooting of mechanical, electrical, and limited electronic components issues on all telescopes and related equipment.
• Provides limited assistance, as qualified, in the operation and testing of telescope and operating equipment, when required.
• Assists in the functional evaluation of newly installed equipment to evaluate system performance under actual operating conditions.
• Assists Telescope Operators with receiver/equipment changes.
• Assists in taking and maintaining inventory of parts.
• Maintains records of maintenance activities, uses PC as required.
• Assists with indoor/outdoor painting, when required.
• Maintains tools and equipment in safe operating condition.
• Assists other maintenance and support personnel as assigned.
• Uses hand and power tools; works from verbal or written instructions, sketches and prints.
• Proactive compliance with NRAO and government safety policies and procedures in own work area is expected.
• Other duties may be assigned.

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: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED