Support Specialist for Lick Observatory

University of California Observatory: Support Specialist for Lick Observatory (Next Review Date: February 28, 2017
University of California Santa Cruz

The University of California Observatories invites applications for a non-ladder-rank academic position as Support Specialist for Lick Observatory on Mt. Hamilton, under the direction of the Associate Director for Lick Observatory. Responsibilities include: Technical instrumentation instruction assistance and scientific guidance to observers on Lick instrumentation, both in person and remotely; night-time systems operation (e.g. Adaptive Optics) circa 50-80 nights per year; monitor, optimize, trouble-shoot, document and maintain, plus on-call recovery/repair of, instrumentation; install, and commission new equipment; support and execute observing programs upon request/delegation; conduct observatory tours and night-time viewing; train observing fundamentals to undergraduate through post-graduate levels and beyond; interact closely with technical and other staff at Mt Hamilton and UCSC. Participation in research leading to published results is expected. The appointee is expected to possess (or readily obtain) a California driving license and will be required to reside in subsidized University housing at Mount Hamilton.

RANK: Assistant Specialist

SALARY: Commensurate with qualifications and experience.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS: Masters or foreign equivalent degree in Astronomy, Physics, or related discipline. Minimum of two years of experience in research astronomy and instrumentation (graduate and/or postgraduate experience).

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: Knowledge of observational techniques and data reduction. Experience working safely with a diverse population of scientists/technicians to achieve research goals. Ability to collaboratively produce and maintain documentation in support of instrumentation, installations, etc., using unix/linux-based platforms. Knowledge of high-precision optical alignment, calibration, adaptive optics, high dispersion spectroscopy, electronics, computer programming, and substantial experience with the operation of large telescopes is highly desirable. Experience of day and night work. Excellent technical and trouble-shooting skills and experience. Experience responding to, managing and prioritizing time-critical technical issues. Understanding of performance monitoring and optimization of electronic equipment and solid-state detectors.

POSITION AVAILABLE: April 1st, 2017 (negotiable)
CLOSING DATE: Review of applications will begin on February 28, 2016

TERM OF APPOINTMENT: This appointment is intended to be available for up to two years. Should the hiring unit propose reappointment, a review to assess performance will be conducted. In addition, reappointment is contingent upon availability of funding.

TO APPLY: Applications are accepted via the UCSC Academic Recruit online system, and must include: application letter with a statement of interest and qualifications, a current CV with publication list, and 3 confidential letters of reference*. Documents/materials must be submitted as PDF files.

Apply at https://recruit.ucsc.edu/apply/JPF00370

Refer to Position #JPF00370-17T in all correspondence
*All letters will be treated as confidential per University of California policy and California state law. For any reference letter provided via a third party (i.e., dossier service, career center), direct the author to UCSC's confidentiality statement at http://apo.ucsc.edu/confstm.htm.