Telescope Mechanic I

Associated Universities Inc • GREEN BANK, WV

3d • Hybrid

About The Position

The National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO), managed by Associated Universities, Inc. (AUI), is a leading research organization in the study of the universe. The Observatory 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 Telescope Mechanic position at the Green Bank Observatory (GBO). Under direct supervision, the telescope mechanic will perform routine maintenance on radio telescopes and associated equipment to support scientific investigations. This is a safety-sensitive, entry-level position within a four-level career progression for telescope mechanics. The preferred location is Green Bank, WV.

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.
• A working knowledge of machine shop, welding, and electrical techniques and procedures.
• The ability to climb antenna stairs and ladders to heights above 100 feet.
• Ability to lift equipment up to 50 pounds (unassisted) is essential.
• Must possess visual acuity (corrected is acceptable) and manual dexterity to be able to perform work on small pieces or areas of work material.
• Must possess hearing acuity in order to perform work safely with instructions and guidance being given over hand-held radios and/or during operations of loud machinery.
• 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.

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

• 13 holidays
• Annual accrual of up to 24 vacation days
• Medical, dental and vision plans effective on the first day of employment
• Retirement benefit: AUI 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