VLBA Operations Specialist

Salary: $47,320 - 67,264.8 per year Requirements:

• We require an associate degree or equivalent from an accredited two-year college or technical school in math, physics, science, or a related technical discipline.
• A bachelors degree in a related field is preferred.
• No previous experience is required, though three or more years operating an industrial-scale astronomical instrument is preferred.
• We need strong adherence to procedures and organizational policies.
• We value exceptional attention to detail, the ability to multitask, and strong communication skills, both written and verbal.
• You should remain composed in emergency situations and work effectively with others, including under pressure.
• You must be comfortable using process control software, Windows systems, and have the ability to learn a Linux/Unix environment.
• You must be able to interpret schematics, operating instructions, maintenance documents, and procedure manuals.
• You need the ability to frequently lift or move up to 50 pounds.
• You must be able to distinguish primary and secondary colors on a computer screen.
• You must be able to hear audible alarms and see flashing or illuminated indicators.
• You must be authorized to work in the United States; we are unable to sponsor H-1B visas for this role.
• This is a safety-sensitive position, and you must pass a post-offer pre-employment drug screen.

• We operate and monitor ten telescopes and their supporting equipment as a coordinated system.
• We troubleshoot faults, apply corrective actions, and escalate significant problems when needed.
• We communicate with remote telescope personnel, issue weather-related warnings, monitor fire alarms, and respond to emergencies.
• We prepare the antenna, receivers, clocks, recording systems, and related hardware and software for observation.
• We receive observing instructions, process incoming files, verify schedules, execute observing programs, and share results with observers.
• We support observers, scientists, engineers, and technicians with basic telescope commands and data analysis.
• We watch multiple screens and alerts to confirm equipment is operating safely and correctly.
• We monitor fringe amplitude readings and data flagging codes to assess data quality.
• We run system tests, confirm antenna and receiver performance, and update parameters after major hardware upgrades in consultation with experts.
• We take protective action when weather or other conditions threaten equipment safety.
• We make call-outs when equipment safety is compromised or major issues occur.
• We maintain detailed observing logs and write reports on failures, abnormal conditions, status changes, and procedural updates.
• We document operational procedures and help keep them current.
• We manage the correlator queue and balance observing priorities with correlator activity.
• We handle and store data disk packs properly during and after use.
• For the higher-level role, we provide advanced troubleshooting, analyze operator tools and methods, develop procedures for new equipment, write technical reports, give feedback on hardware/software issues, train new operators, and assist scientists with basic data analysis.

• Hardware
• Support
• Linux
• Unix
• Windows
• ASP.NET

More:

We are the National Radio Astronomy Observatory, a leading research and development organization advancing the study of the universe through world-class radio telescope facilities. Our observatory is operated by Associated Universities, Inc., a nonprofit working under cooperative agreement with the National Science Foundation, and we support the international scientific community in exploring black holes, galaxies, and the early universe. We are hiring for our Operations team at the Very Long Baseline Array in Socorro, New Mexico, based at the Domenici Science Operations Center. This is a team-oriented, mission-driven role in a 24/7 shift environment, with indoor work, multiple computer terminals, emergency call-out availability, and overtime as needed. We offer a starting hourly rate of $22.75 to $32.31, with a comprehensive benefits package that includes paid time off, medical, dental, and vision coverage effective on day one, and a retirement contribution equal to 10 percent of qualified base pay with no employee contribution required.

last updated 33 week of 2026