NRAO- Data Analyst (open rank)

The National Radio Astronomy Observatory enables forefront research into the Universe at radio wavelengths. In partnership with the scientific community we:

• provide world leading telescopes, instrumentation and expertise,

• train the next generation of scientists and engineers, and

• promote astronomy to foster a more scientifically literate society.

The Atacama Large Millimeter/Submillimeter Array (ALMA) is the most powerful (sub)millimeter interferometer ever constructed, and is transforming our understanding of topics ranging from the formation of nearby protoplanetary disks to the earliest epochs of galaxy formation.

Data Analyst Open Rank Position Summary:

The primary goal of the Data Analyst( open rank) will be to provide assistance to observatory users by reducing data and assessing data quality, operating a data reduction pipeline, answering questions in the online helpdesk system, assisting with observing script preparation, testing observatory software, and contributing to the data delivery process. The position is assigned to the North American ALMA Science Center (NAASC). The North American ALMA Science Center is located at NRAO headquarters in Charlottesville, VA (on the grounds of the University of Virginia). The Data Analyst(s) will work closely with members of observatory support groups and data services groups at all NRAO locations.

Key Responsibilities and Duties:

• Provide assistance to observatory users by reducing data and assessing data quality, operating a data reduction pipeline, and testing ALMA software and data products

• Assist visiting scientists in preparation of proposals, observing scripts, data reduction, data analysis and archive access

• Maintain a working knowledge of all relevant user software for NRAO instruments, including those used for proposal submission, observation preparation, and especially post-processing data reduction

• Ensure appropriate and timely responses to user queries to the NAASC helpdesk by, for example, responding to a query, forwarding to another expert, following up on open queries, etc.

• Assist in the generation and editing of CASAGuides and helpdesk knowledgebase articles

• Assist scientific staff with testing of software and procedures, as requested

• Maintain relevant web page content and other documentation to ensure information for users stays current

Competency Summary

-Must be able to communicate clearly in verbal and written form.

-Must have good diagnostic and troubleshooting skills

-Must work well with people

Position Requirements:

Minimum Education

Bachelor's degree in astronomy, physics, computer science or related field.

Preferred Education

Master's degree or Ph.D. in astronomy, physics, computer science or related field

Minimum Experience

Must have experience with user support and technical communication.

Must be able to use computers with MacOS and Linux operating systems.

Preferred Experience

-Experience working with astronomical data products and/or operating radio telescopes desired;

-Experience with the CASA data reduction packages is desirable;

-Experience with other data reduction software (e.g. AIPS, MIRIAD) is welcomed;

-Experience with Python, Plone, and XML is desirable.

Remuneration:

Rank and salary will be commensurate upon education and relevant work experience.

Application Instructions:

Application Instructions Please use the "Apply Online" button below to create an account and upload a CV/resume and a cover letter outlining your interest in and aptitude for this position. Final application deadline is Dec 31, 2016; interviews will be conducted from the posting date and positions may be filled on a rolling basis at any time. More information For questions regarding this position, please contact Catarina Ubach( [email protected])

The NRAO is an equal opportunity employer (M/F/D/V)Applications from members of groups under-represented in physics and engineering fields are encouraged.