Operations Specialist I

Position Description:

Position Summary

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.

What You Will be Doing

• The operator receives a schedule of observation programs or technical activities, reviews the objectives and requirements, enables required equipment, and then initiates and ends the observations.
• The incumbent 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 assists in the training of other telescope operators.

Work Environment

Work is mission driven, team oriented and typically performed within a research or development environment. Indoor and outdoor work is required, occasionally at high altitudes and heights of up to 500 feet. This position works on a rotating, 12-hour shift pattern consisting of day and night shifts.

Physical Demands

The work is primarily indoors at a console with multiple computer terminals. Ability to distinguish the primary and secondary colors (red, blue, yellow, orange, green, etc.) and must have good depth perception (for when working at the telescopes). Ability to hear audible alarms and see flashing and/or illuminated lights, and able to work in high level noise environments. Ability to ascend and descend 2-4 flights of stairs, as well as also occasionally perform operating tasks as high as 37 stories above ground on grating type platforms in the open environment, in all weather conditions allowed within safety policies. May frequently lift up to 50 pounds. Availability for emergency call out and may be required to work overtime to cover vacant shifts or in emergency situations until relieved.

Who You Are:

Education

• You have a minimum of an associates 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. While not required a bachelors degree in a science related field may be an asset.
• You have a valid drivers license
• While not required, you may experience operating equipment in an industrial environment

Skills and Competencies

• 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

Observatory employees must be authorized to work in the United States. The Observatory presently cannot sponsor H-1B Visas for this position.

Safety Sensitive

The 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.

Total Rewards:

Compensation

The starting hourly rate of this position is between $18.96 and $24.65 per hour. Factors which may affect starting pay within this range may include education, experience, skills, competencies, other qualifications of the successful candidate, as well as internal equity and labor market conditions.

Benefits:

Associated Universities, Inc (AUI) offers a comprehensive benefits package addressing the needs of employees and their families with most benefits beginning on the first day of employment, subject to eligibility requirements. AUI provides:

• 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.
• AUIs retirement benefit contributes an amount equal to 10 percent of a qualified participants base pay with no required employee contribution.
• Click Total Rewards for more information.

Application Instructions:

Select Apply. Please be prepared to upload your current CV/Resume and a cover letter describing interest and suitability for the position.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement:

AUI is an equal opportunity employer. To view our complete statement, please visit If you require reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process, you may submit your request by sending an email to View email address on click.appcast.io. PM20

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