Operations Specialist I

Associated Universities Inc•GREEN BANK, WV

5d•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.
A 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
Must be authorized to work in the United States.
Must successfully 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

Receives a schedule of observation programs or technical activities, reviews the objectives and requirements, enables required equipment, and then initiates and ends the observations.
Communicates with on-site or remote observers, receives observing instructions from them, monitors their data collection, and makes changes and adjustments as needed.
Archives data via computerized storage.
May set up and run previously scripted observations without contact with the scientists (performs "service" observations).
May assist scientists with basic quality analysis of data.
Monitors data collection for radio frequency interference, aids in the identification of the source, and communicates this information to appropriate specialists.
Initiates action to correct software or equipment problems.
Notifies appropriate personnel for assistance if necessary.
Monitors the weather conditions and takes prescribed actions when weather conditions exceed operating parameters.
Maintains a detailed shift log of operating activities.
Notes failures and abnormal conditions.
Operates equipment for engineers and maintenance workers during maintenance periods.
Serves as the work control contact either from the main control room or may be required to do this on site at each telescope.
Reviews and revises existing operating procedures.
Develops 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.
Performs inspections and servicing of telescopes, supporting equipment, and data collections systems.
May assist in the training of other telescope operators.

Benefits

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.

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