Telescope Mechanic II-III

Associated Universities Inc.

4d • $23 - $32 • Onsite

About The Position

The National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO), managed by Associated Universities, Inc. (AUI), is seeking a full-time Telescope Mechanic for the Very Large Array (VLA) located 50 miles west of Socorro, New Mexico. This role is crucial for maintaining state-of-the-art radio telescope facilities used by the international scientific community. The Telescope Mechanic will provide routine maintenance, construction, installation, testing, repair, and upkeep of radio telescopes and associated equipment essential for collecting radio astronomical data. The position is Safety Sensitive and requires proactive compliance with safety policies. The appointment is expected to be at the Telescope Mechanic I level, with potential for a higher rank in exceptional cases.

Requirements

• High School diploma or GED
• Minimum of two years of experience as a radio telescope mechanic or comparable experience in the industrial maintenance field.
• Ability to read and interpret documents such as schematics, blueprints, operating and maintenance instructions, procedure manuals, and Material Safety Data Sheets.
• Ability to write routine reports and correspondence.
• Must have a good working knowledge of rigging and material handling techniques.
• Must be able to operate a personal computer.
• Must hold and maintain a valid New Mexico driver’s license.
• Observatory employees must be authorized to work in the United States.
• The ability to climb antenna stairs and ladders to heights of above 100 feet, 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, and 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.

Nice To Haves

• A working knowledge of machine shop, welding, and electrical techniques and procedures is desirable.
• Class A CDL preferred.

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.
• May assist 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