Discovery Channel Telescope Operator I

DISCOVERY CHANNEL TELESCOPE OPERATOR I

Lowell Observatory is seeking an entry level Telescope Operator (TO) for their 4.3-meter Discovery Channel Telescope (DCT). The Telescope Operator position is part of Lowell Observatory’s Technology Department.  The Telescope Operator is responsible for safe and efficient conduct of operations at the Discovery Channel Telescope.  This position reports to the Night Operations Manager (NOM).

THE COMPLETE JOB DESCRIPTION IS AVAILABLE ON OUR WEBSITE - PLEASE GO TO https://lowell.edu/about/employment/

RESPONSIBILITIES - EDITED FOR SPACE

The TO is responsible for telescope and facility operation.  He/she is the final authority on safe telescope operation and with regards to decisions on opening, closing or ceasing operations due to hazardous conditions.  The TO works closely with the scientists who are observing to maximize the productivity of the time spent on the telescope.  The operator is expected to be highly proficient with the telescope, and all of its various subsystems (especially including the optics, guiding and wavefront sensing systems), and will work closely with the DCT engineering staff.  The TO must communicate well with scientific and engineering staff from Lowell and its partners.  In the event of difficulties, the TO is the first problem solver on site, and will work with the observers and the engineering staff to find appropriate solutions in a timely manner.

EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION - EDITED FOR SPACE

Candidate should have a Bachelor’s degree in Astronomy or a related field; though candidates with three or more years experience and demonstrated competence in a related role and holding an Associate’s degree (or equivalent) will be considered.

Preparation must include a demonstrated understanding of astronomical coordinate systems and time keeping, and prior experience operating telescopes and astronomical instrumentation (at minimum optical cameras).  Experience operating large telescopes (2meters and larger), and telescopes with active optics systems is a strong plus. Also, experience with maintaining astronomical instrumentation, and gathering and reducing astronomical data will be considered positively.

The candidate must have a valid driving license and be able to acquire an AZ state driving license upon commencement of this position.

Application deadline is May 21st - Open until filled

Lowell Observatory is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and provides equal employment opportunity to all persons without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, veteran status, political beliefs, sexual orientation, and marital and family status.

Lowell Observatory provides reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. This nonsmoking/drug-free campus is at an elevation of 7,000 ft/2100m, and the DCT is 40 miles south of Flagstaff at an elevation of 7,800 ft/2370m. If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process, please notify the Human Resources office for assistance.