Observatory Support Associate (Safford, AZ)

The LBTO seeks an Observatory Support Associate responsible for operating the Large Binocular Telescope and its systems to facilitate astronomical data collection. The OSA works primarily at the observatory site on Mt Graham (3200m). The normal work schedule is a 7-night shift every third week. The OSA will also support telescope and facility performance documentation and data quality monitoring, and will maintain the safety of personnel and equipment during nighttime observations.

Outstanding UA benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; UA/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to UA recreation and cultural activities; and more!

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• Independently operate, maintain, and troubleshoot the Large Binocular Telescope on Mt Graham during the night for engineering, science operations, and international partner observing.
• Execute telescope start-up procedures at evening twilight and shutdown procedures at morning twilight.
• Liaise with LBT service observers and/or partner observer scientists to efficiently collect world-class astronomical data.
• Identify improvements to observing efficiency.
• Be responsible on a nightly basis for the safety of personnel and equipment.
• Serve as mountain safety officer during night operation.
• Inspect premises to identify situations potentially dangerous or injurious to personnel or equipment; make real-time decisions regarding operation of the telescope and facility and its protection from adverse conditions.
• Control access to the observing floor and the telescope.
• Respond to emergency situations and provide first aid as needed.
• Configure and operate the LBTO guiding, active optics, and adaptive optics systems.
• In consultation with the observers, monitor real-time LBTO image quality and telescope performance.
• Advise observers / scientists on feasibility of specific types of observations based on these parameters.
• Monitor observing weather stations, including wind velocity, humidity and amount of dust present.
• Decide if weather conditions permit safe operation of the telescope in consultation with observers and technical personnel.
• Respond to real-time changes in weather conditions.
• Advise observers on strategies to adapt programs to increase feasibility in light of environmental conditions.
• Prepare nightly and end-of-shift operational log reports.
• Serve as a high-level resource on telescope performance and notify appropriate personnel of malfunctions of equipment or opportunities for improvement.
• Perform corrective actions in consultation with other observatory personnel.
• Maintain good communication with daytime mountain staff members on operational issues.
• Attend daily observatory-wide telescope planning meetings on-shift and provide technical input and guidance.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Extensive knowledge of telescope operation principles and practical considerations.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Detail-oriented in execution of tasks.
• Ability to work successfully as part of a team.

Physical/Environmental Requirements:

• Candidate must be able to perform duties at an altitude of 10,500 feet and travel up and down the mountain for their shift.

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent advanced learning attained through professional-level experience required.
• Minimum of five (5) years of relevant work experience, or equivalent combination of education and work experience.
• The position is based in Safford, AZ with regular work at the high-altitude Mt Graham telescope site required.
• Must have a valid driver’s license and ability to drive according to the University Fleet Safety Policy.