Observatory Instrument Specialist

Company: NMSU - Apache Point Observatory
Location: Alamogordo
Posted on: May 21, 2023

Job Description:

New Mexico State University invites you to apply to be a part of a diverse, dynamic and welcoming learning and working environment at the Apache Point Observatory (APO) in Sunspot, New Mexico.NMSUis New Mexico's land-grant and space-grant institution, a comprehensive research institution dedicated to teaching, research, public service and outreach.NMSUseeks employees who are creative and flexible in developing and evaluating new ideas and ways to evolveNMSUinto the future. AtAPO, we strive to hire the best possible candidates and feel we offer competitive salaries within university-oriented astronomical research. This remote location is 1.5 hours fromNMSU.Located in the Sacramento Mountains,APOis a remote astronomical observatory owned by the Astrophysical Research Consortium (ARC) and proudly operated byNMSU.ARChas three research telescopes atAPO: the 3.5m Telescope, the 2.5m Sloan Foundation Telescope and the 0.5m Small Aperture Telescope (ARCSAT).ARCalso hosts NMSU's 1.0m Telescope.We invite you to take the first step to your successful and rewarding career by applying today!
Job Duties and Responsibilities

Responsible for the electrical/ electronics related to theARC3.5-m telescope, instrumentation, and facilities at Apache Point Observatory.
Must have extensive skills in analog and digital electronics.CCDelectronics, Servos,PLCcontrollers, lightning isolation, power systems,CADdesign, circuit and circuit board design, high and low voltage power distribution, design and implementation in low noise
Develops and maintains procedures and maintenance schedules related to electrical systems. Plans and coordinates maintenance work.
Design, generate contracts for fabrication and testing of various electronic systems, subsystems and ancillary equipment associated with complex telescope systems, including interfaces and scientific instruments.
Perform preventive and corrective maintenance to systems as necessary to ensure safety and system integrity.
Monitor trends and correct anomalies.
Perform troubleshooting and problem analysis.
Specify procedures, schedule, spare lists for maintenance repair of instrument and telescope systems.
Report activities and progress related to instrument and telescope systems engineering toARCTelescope Engineer.
Specify, procure, maintain specialized electrical, electronics, and test/maintenance equipment.
Develop an annual plan and contribute input towards the budget for telescope systems engineering activities and projects.
Supervise, direct, delegate, and evaluate work of assigned staff
Instrument performance monitoring and preparation for observing
Telescope and Site Electrical Troubleshooting and Repair
Electronic system design, procurement / fabrication Servo tuning, control system programing development
Review instrument proposals
Oversee new instrument design, procurement, fabrication, participate in design reviews, assists with integration. Working independently or as a part of an internal/external team.
Emergency backup for LN2 transportation
Coordinate instrument upgrades/ prepare proposals/ oversee design, procurement, and implementation.
Ensure proper software integration with operations for optimum performance
environment, DC to high frequency operation in all weather environments.
Perform related duties as required

Classification Summary Under general direction, performs an assortment of complex duties related to the operation of observatory and telescope instrumentation, including maintenance, troubleshooting, and documentation of existing instruments. Duties may include design and implementation of instrument upgrades and new instruments. Work may involve optics, electronics, control system, and mechanical systems. Works with other observatory personnel to achieve minimal observatory systems downtime and long-term sustainability of observatory systems. May provide work leadership and training to lower level professional and technical staff.
Classification Standard Duties Carries out design and feasibility studies for new technical innovations. Draws up plans and specifications for moderately complex instruments and projects. Estimates material, construction, and labor costs, and project timescales. May coordinate the work of other engineers, technicians and craftspeople. Tests installations and systems, and analyzes data making sure projects meet applicable safety regulations. Oversees and participates in inspection and maintenance programs. Attends meetings, writes reports and gives presentations to observatory management.
Knowledge Knowledge and understanding of principles, procedures, regulations, and standards applicable to the job. An understanding of health and safety regulations is required. Understanding of the University's mission, vision and goals.
Skills Excellent communication skills. Excellent math, science, technology and IT skills. Excellent team-working and people skills. Good budgetary skills. Strong decision-making skills.
Abilities The ability to analyze complex problems and assess possible solutions. The ability to explain design ideas clearly. The ability to prioritize and plan effectively.
Required Education Bachelor's degree in related field.
Required Experience Five (5) years of professional experience directly related to the standard duties as outlined.Equivalency None
Preferred Qualifications Ten (10) years of experience at an astronomical observatory or R&D facility
Required Certification/License
Special Requirements
Must possess or be able to obtain a Class B CDL with HazMat endorsement within six (6) months
Other Departmental Requirements
Standard Work Schedule Shift: Other ShiftIf not a Standard Work Schedule, please describe Monday - Friday 7am-3pm but some early morning, late afternoon, weekends or holidays may be required
Physical Work Location State: NM-New Mexico
Physical Work Location County, if in New Mexico OT-Otero
Work Site Apache Point Observatory
Contingent Upon Funding Contingent upon external funds
Bargaining Unit Eligible Posting Announcement Statement This is NOT a bargaining unit position with American Federation of State, County & Municipal Employees (AFSCME).Tenure Track NoWorking Conditions and Physical Effort
Environment Work is normally performed indoors.
Physical Effort Moderate physical activity.
Lifting Requirements Requires handling of average-weight objects up to 25 pounds or standing and/or walking for more than four (4) hours per day.
Risk
Work environment involves some exposure to hazards or physical risks, which require following basic safety precautions.
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Keywords: NMSU - Apache Point Observatory, Las Cruces , Observatory Instrument Specialist, Other , Alamogordo, New Mexico