VLBA Operations Specialist I-II (4987)

Associated Universities - Socorro, NM

Full-time - Entry Level

Hybrid - Socorro, NM

Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services

About the position

The National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) is a prestigious research facility dedicated to the study of the universe through advanced radio telescopes. The NRAO operates several significant telescopes, including the Very Large Array (VLA) in New Mexico, the Green Bank Telescope in West Virginia, and the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA) in Chile. These instruments are among the most sophisticated in the world, enabling astronomers to conduct detailed explorations of cosmic phenomena. The NRAO is currently seeking an Operations Specialist to join the Operations team at the Very Long Baseline Array (VLBA). This role involves providing technical assistance in executing astronomical observing programs and performing basic data analysis and correlation under limited supervision. The Operations Specialist will be trained to operate the VLBA system, ensuring high-quality data acquisition while maintaining safety protocols for personnel and equipment. Candidates with relevant experience and education may be considered for a higher-level Operations Specialist position, which entails increased responsibilities. This position is classified as “Safety Sensitive,” reflecting the critical nature of the work involved. The role is based at the VLBA control center located at the Pete V. Domenici Science Operations Center in Socorro, NM.

Responsibilities

• Operates and monitors one or more telescopes and supporting equipment.
• Initiates telescope control and prepares the antenna, receivers, clocks, recording systems, and other hardware/software for operation.
• Receives observing instructions from on-site or remote observers and executes observation programs, including processing incoming observe files and verifying against published schedules.
• Aids and accommodates requests from observers, scientific staff, engineers, and technicians regarding basic commands for telescope controls and data analysis.
• Monitors readings and alerts on multiple computer screens to detect unsafe equipment conditions and ensure all systems are configured correctly and operating normally.
• Monitors fringe amplitude readings and data flagging codes to check data quality.
• Performs system tests to measure values used to finely tune each antenna.
• Takes prescribed actions to protect telescope equipment when weather conditions exceed operating parameters.
• Troubleshoots and takes corrective action when errors and faults occur.
• Makes necessary personnel call-outs when equipment safety is compromised or when major problems occur.
• Maintains an accurate observing log of failures, abnormal conditions, significant events, equipment status changes, procedural changes, or special instructions from observers or staff.
• Writes detailed maintenance reports for hardware and software problems.
• Reviews and revises existing operating procedures and develops procedures and schematics for new equipment based on technical information supplied by engineers or supervisors.
• May develop technical reports to describe operating characteristics, abnormal conditions, and functional limitations.
• Provides input/feedback on related and proposed hardware/software developments/issues and assists in troubleshooting any detected problems.
• Reviews operator's status screens and other tools, recommends improvements, and documents changes as needed.
• Acts as liaison for array software, including testing of new programs, providing feedback to the programming staff, training operators in new procedures, and providing documentation.
• Troubleshoots array system issues and assists scientists, programmers, and engineers with solutions.
• Manages/creates the correlator queue efficiently, balancing the priorities of observing and correlator functions.
• Ensures data disc packs are properly handled and stored during and after usage.

Requirements

• Associate's degree (A. A.) or equivalent from an accredited two-year college or technical school in math, physics, science, or a related technical field.
• While not required, a bachelor's degree in a related field is preferred.
• Three or more years of experience in operating an industrial-sized astronomical telescope is preferred.
• Ability to follow procedures and policies.
• Ability to handle emergencies calmly.
• Clear verbal and written communication skills, attention to detail, and ability to work well with others in stressful situations.
• Experience operating a computer using process control software applications, and proficiency in Windows and word processing/spreadsheet software.
• Experience with a LINUX/UNIX operating environment.
• Demonstrated ability to read and interpret documents such as schematics, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
• Attention to detail is critical, highly organized, and excellent communication skills.

Nice-to-haves

• Bachelor's degree in a related field.
• Experience with industrial-sized astronomical telescopes.

Benefits

• Excellent paid time off including 13 holidays, annual accrual of up to 24 vacation days, and 15 sick days.
• Additional time off for doctor/dentist visits.
• 8 weeks of paid parental leave.
• Medical, dental, and vision plans effective on the first day of employment.
• Retirement benefit contributing an amount equal to 10 percent of a qualified participant's base pay with no required employee contribution; optional supplemental, tax-deferred plan for employee retirement contributions.