VLBA Operations Specialist I-II (4794)
Company: Associated Universities, Inc.
Location: Socorro
Posted on: January 26, 2023
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Job Description:
The National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) is recruiting an
Operations Specialist to join our Operations team at the Very Long
Baseline Array (VLBA) in New Mexico. The Operations Specialist
provides skilled technical assistance, under limited supervision,
in the execution of astronomical observing programs, basic analysis
and correlation of data. The Operations Specialist operates an
array of 10 telescopes and the VLBA correlator.Position
Description: Position SummaryThe National Radio Astronomy
Observatory (NRAO) is recruiting an Operations Specialist to join
our Operations team at the Very Long Baseline Array (VLBA). The
Operations Specialist provides skilled technical assistance, under
limited supervision, in the execution of astronomical observing
programs, basic analysis and correlation of data. The Operations
Specialist will be trained to operate VLBA system and will ensuring
the acquisition of data from the instrument delivers a high level
of data quality while ensuring the safety of personnel and
equipment. Candidates with preferred experience and education will
be considered for a higher-level Operation Specialist ranking;
duties and responsibilities increase with each level. This is a
Safety Sensitive position as described in the Position Requirements
below.The position is based at the VLBA control center, at the Pete
V. Domenici Science Operations Center in Socorro, NM. Socorro is a
small, historical town in the Rio Grande Valley, 75 miles south of
Albuquerque. In addition to competitive pay, NRAO provides
excellent paid time off benefits (vacation and sick leave).
Medical, dental and vision plans are effective on the first day of
employment. NRAOs retirement benefit contributes an amount equal to
10 percent of a qualified participants base pay. No contribution is
required of the employee; we also offer an optional supplemental,
tax-deferred plan for employee retirement contributions.Job Duties
SummaryThe essential responsibilities of an Operations Specialist
include:Operates and monitors one or more telescopes and supporting
equipment.Initiates telescope control and prepares the antenna,
receivers, clocks, recording systems, and other hardware/software
for operation.Receives observing instructions from on-site or
remote observers and executes observation programs including but
not limited to process incoming observe files, verify against
published schedules, annotate files on the observation schedule,
execute observation programs, and send pointing results to
observers.Aids and accommodate requests from observers, scientific
staff, engineers, and technicians in regards to basic commands for
telescope controls and data analyst.Monitors readings and alerts on
multiple computer screens to detect unsafe equipment conditions and
ensure all systems are configured correctly and operating
normally.Monitors fringe amplitude readings and data flagging codes
to check data quality.Performs system tests to measure values used
to finely tune each antenna.Takes prescribed actions to protect
telescope equipment i.e. weather conditions exceed operating
parameters.Troubleshoots and takes corrective action when errors
and faults occur.Makes necessary personnel call-outs when equipment
safety is compromised and/or when major problems occur.Maintains an
accurate observing log of failures, abnormal conditions,
significant events, equipment status changes, procedural changes,
or special instructions from observers or staff.Writes detailed
maintenance reports for hardware and software problems.Reviews and
revises existing operating procedures. Develops procedures and
schematics for new equipment based on technical information
supplied by engineers or supervisors.May develop technical reports
to describe operating characteristics, abnormal conditions, and
functional limitations.Provides input/feedback on related and
proposed hardware/software developments/issues and assist in
troubleshooting any detected problems.Reviews operator's status
screens and other tools, recommends improvements and documents
changes as needed.Acts as liaison for array software including
testing of new programs, providing feedback to the programming
staff, training operators in new procedures and providing
documentation.Troubleshoots array system issues; assists
scientists, programmers, and engineers with
solutions.Manages/creates the correlator queue efficiently,
appropriately balancing the priorities of observing and correlator
functions.Ensures data disc packs are properly handled and stored
during and after usage.Additional responsibilities of an Operations
Specialist II include:Provides training for Operators and others.
Update training manual.Represents the division at inter-division
meetings as required.May write scripts used by operators to batch
upload documents to the web, and generate system stress tests for
staff review. Develops procedures and schematics for new equipment
based on technical information supplied by engineers or
supervisors.Work EnvironmentThe Operations Specialist will work as
part of a team that supports a 24 hour / 7-day rotating shift
pattern consisting of day, evening and night shifts. A typical
workweek for VLBA is 5/8hr days or a combination of 8hr and 12hr
shifts with days off between shift changes. The work is indoors at
a console with multiple computer terminals. Operators must be
available for emergency call out and may be required to work
overtime to cover vacant shifts or in emergencies until
relieved.Position Requirements: Minimum EducationAssociate'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. Preferred EducationBachelor's Degree in a
related field.Preferred ExperienceThree or more years of experience
in operating an industrial-sized astronomical telescope preferred.
Competency SummaryMust be able to follow procedures and policies,
be able to handle emergencies calmly, able to express themselves
clearly both verbally and in writing, be attentive to detail, and
able to work well with others, sometimes in stressful situations.
Must be able to operate a computer using process control software
applications, and able to use a Windows computer and word
processing and spreadsheet software. Must have experience with a
LINUX/UNIX operating environment. Must have demonstrated ability to
read and interpret documents such as schematics, operating and
maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.Physical
RequirementsThe physical demands and the work environment
characteristics described here are representative of those that
must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential
functions of this position. Specific vision requirements include
close vision, distance vision, color and depth perception, and the
ability to adjust focus. The employee must be able to hear
instructions and warnings. All Operators must be available for
emergency call out and may be required to work extended shifts of
up to 14 hours, when needed. Hearing acuity is required in order to
perform work safely and visual acuity is required to read and
understand written/graphic/data material on a computer screen and
determine colors displayed on a computer monitor. The employee must
frequently lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.Additional
RequirementThe Observatory requires staff to be fully vaccinated
against Covid-19 to access our facilities. An offer of employment
will be considered contingent until the selected applicant provides
proof of vaccination. A selected applicant may request
consideration for an accommodation for a disability or for a
sincerely held religious belief.Safety SensitiveThe selected
candidate must successfully pass a post-offer,
pre-employment/pre-placement drug screen. Failure to pass the
Screen will disqualify the candidate from employment consideration
for a period of six months from the date of the results.
Application Instructions: Please select the "Apply" button below.
You will need to be prepared to upload your current CV/Resume and a
letter of application describing interest and suitability for the
position.Equal Opportunity Employer Statement:AUI is an equal
opportunity employer. Women, Minorities, Vietnam-Era Veterans,
Disabled Veterans, Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities are
encouraged to apply. To view our complete statement, please visit .
If you require reasonable accommodation for any part of the
application or hiring process due to a disability, you may submit
your request by sending an email to .The National Radio Astronomy
Observatory is a facility of the National Science Foundation
operated under cooperative agreement by Associated Universities,
Inc.PM20
Keywords: Associated Universities, Inc., Albuquerque , VLBA Operations Specialist I-II (4794), Other , Socorro, New Mexico
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