Operations Specialist I

Associated Universities Inc. • Green Bank, WV

7d • $19 - $25 • Onsite

About The Position

The National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) is a prestigious research and development organization that plays a vital role in the study of the universe. Associated Universities, Inc. (AUI) is a nonprofit organization that manages and operates the NRAO under a cooperative agreement with the National Science Foundation. The Observatory is a hub for technological and scientific collaboration, operating state-of-the-art radio telescope facilities for use by the international scientific community. The Observatory has been instrumental in the study of black holes, galaxies, and the early universe. At NRAO we are seeking a Telescope Operations Specialist I to safely and efficiently monitor and operate one or more telescopes, monitor the performance of telescope systems, and assist engineers and technicians in diagnosing telescope equipment failures. This position is located on-site at the Green Bank Observatory in Green Bank, WV.

Requirements

• Minimum of an associate’s degree (A. A.) or equivalent from an accredited two-year college or technical school with training in math, physics, science or a related technical field.
• Valid driver’s license
• High level of competency in Microsoft software products, web-based systems and process control software applications
• Attention to detail is critical
• Highly organized
• Excellent communication skills
• Ability to handle emergencies calmly and to work well with others in potentially stressful situations
• Experience with, or the ability to learn, a UNIX operating environment
• Authorized to work in the United States.
• Must pass a post-offer, pre-employment/pre-placement drug screen.

Nice To Haves

• A bachelor’s degree in a science related field may be an asset.
• May experience operating equipment in an industrial environment

Responsibilities

• Receive a schedule of observation programs or technical activities, review objectives and requirements, enable required equipment, and then initiate and end observations.
• Communicate with on-site or remote observers, receive observing instructions, monitor data collection, and make changes and adjustments as needed. Archive data via computerized storage.
• Set up and run previously scripted observations without contact with scientists (perform "service" observations).
• Assist scientists with basic quality analysis of data.
• Monitor data collection for radio frequency interference, aid in the identification of the source, and communicate this information to appropriate specialists.
• Initiate action to correct software or equipment problems. Notify appropriate personnel for assistance if necessary.
• Monitor weather conditions and take prescribed actions when weather conditions exceed operating parameters.
• Maintain a detailed shift log of operating activities. Note failures and abnormal conditions.
• Operate equipment for engineers and maintenance workers during maintenance periods. Serve as the work control contact either from the main control room or may be required to do this on site at each telescope.
• Review and revise existing operating procedures. Develop procedures and even schematics for new equipment based on technical information supplied by engineers or supervisor. May also develop technical reports to describe operating characteristics, abnormal conditions, and functional limitations.
• Perform inspections and servicing of telescopes, supporting equipment, and data collections systems.
• Assist in the training of other telescope operators.

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: Associate degree