Support Astronomer

Support Astronomer

Are you an astronomer who enjoys working with instruments and loves observing as much as making discoveries?  Do you enjoy working closely with some of the best astronomers in the field? Would you like to join a high-performance team of like-minded scientists responsible for instrumentation and observing support at a renowned astronomical observatory, working with the biggest telescopes on the planet and residing in one of the world’s most uniquely beautiful and diverse locations?

The W. M. Keck Observatory on the Big Island of Hawaii operates the world’s two largest optical/infrared telescopes from the summit of Mauna Kea.  The Observatory seeks a Support Astronomer who is a motivated self-starter, has knowledge of ground-based optical and near-IR observing techniques and instrumentation, and who appreciates the chance to work at the cutting edge of discovery in astronomy.

The successful applicant will join Keck’s existing team of Support Astronomers responsible for assisting visiting observers in using the instruments; maintaining, calibrating, and improving Keck’s suite of world-class astronomical instrumentation; supporting data reduction; and participating on instrument building teams during development and commissioning of future instruments. The Support Astronomers work primarily at WMKO headquarters in Waimea, renowned as one of Hawaii’s most livable communities, and travel to the Mauna Kea summit for occasional work as required. Team members are expected to dedicate 20% of their time to active astronomical research.

Required minimum qualifications are a Ph.D. in astronomy, physics, or engineering; relevant experience may be substituted for a degree. The candidate should have an Interest and/or experience with scientific instrumentation as well as experience observing and/or working at an astronomical observatory; two (2) years’ experience with scientific instrumentation and experience working at an astronomical observatory. Candidates must be capable of working effectively with visiting observers and coordinating multi-disciplinary instrument commissioning and maintenance teams.

This is a regular, full time position offering a competitive, comprehensive benefits package including relocation assistance and independent school (K-12) tuition support for dependent children. Salary is dependent upon qualifications and experience.

Review of applications will begin in April 2017, but the position will remain open until filled. Cover letters can be addressed to Jeannette Mundon, Human Resources Office.

To learn more about this position and to apply, go to: http://keckobservatory.applicantpro.com/jobs/

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