Support Astronomer

New Mexico State University

Mid-level $57.8k - $80.0k YEARLY Remote

Posted 3 weeks ago

Job summary

The Support Astronomer at New Mexico State University will operate telescopes and assist visiting astronomers in obtaining high-quality observational data. This role requires three years of experience with astronomical instruments and supervision of assigned staff. The position is full-time and remote, based in Sunspot, New Mexico.

Role details
Role
Full-time
Industry
Education And Training
Employment
Fulltime
Experience
3 Years +
Education
Master's Degree In A Related Field
Responsibilities
  • Operate telescopes and instruments to obtain astronomical data
  • Assist astronomers with data analysis and operations
  • Supervise and evaluate assigned staff
  • Perform quality assurance tests of telescope and instruments
Requirements
  • Master's degree in a related field
  • Three (3) years of professional experience with astronomical instruments
  • Doctorate with observing experience is equivalent to required experience
Key skills
Astronomical Data Reductions Astronomical Research Conduction Commissioning Of Telescope Data Analysis Telescope Operation Telescope Control Systems Report Preparation Public Contact Oral Communication Written Communication Problem Analysis Short-range Planning
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    502380
    Remote Locations, New Mexico, United States
    Staff
    Staff Full\-time
    Closing at: Jul 31 2025 \
  • • 23:55 MDT
    • Position Title: Support Astronomer
    Employee Classification: Support Astronomer
    College/Division: Arts and Sciences College
    Department: 330300\-ASTRONOMY
    Internal or External Search: Internal/Private \
  • • by invitation to apply only
    • Location: Remote

    Offsite Location (if applicable): Sunspot, NM
    Target Hourly/Salary Rate: Commensurate with qualifications
    Appointment Full\-time Equivalency: 1\.0
    Exempt or Non\-Exempt: Exempt
    Summary: The Department of Astronomy at New Mexico State University, a research\-focused academic unit dedicated to excellence in education and discovery, invites you to apply for an available position at Apache Point Observatory located in Sunspot, New Mexico.
    Classification Summary:
    Operates telescopes and/or associated instrumentation to obtain astronomical data and/or assists Assists visiting astronomers in obtaining high quality observational data. Provides technical, scientific and logistical support to astronomers before, during, and after their observing runs a the telescope, including assistance with data analysis. Performs general and specific commissioning of the telescope and instruments. Conducts astronomical research.
    Classification Standard Duties:
    Supervise, direct, delegate, and evaluate work of assigned staff. Plan observing strategy for facilities where applicable. Perform quality assurance tests of telescope, instruments, and acquired data. Collaborate with colleagues in survey project preparing scientific results where applicable. Operate facilities to acquire scientific data. Develop commissioning plans for facilities and operational procedures. Perform commissioning tests, prepare reports. Perform periodic engineering tests and procedures, analyze and interpret results. Work with engineering staff to maintain and improve facilities. Interface with other project staff a different institutions regarding survey issues and progress. Perform related duties as required.
    Required Education, Experience, Certification/License, Equivalency
    Required Education:Master's degree in a related field.; Required Experience:Three (3\) years of professional experience with modern astronomical spectrographic and/or imaging instruments, moderate to large telescopes, and astronomical data reductions with demonstrated successes in astronomical research.; Equivalency:Doctorate that includes observing experience (no additional experience needed), or Bachelor degree in a related field and five (5\) years of experience related to the standard duties as outlined.; Required Certification/License:
    Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
    KNOWLEDGE:University and department policies and procedures; principles and practices of organization and administration; principles of supervision, training, and performance evaluation, telescope control systems, analysis of CCD images/spectra.; SKILLS:Short\
  • • and long\-range planning; problem analysis and resolution; report preparation and presentation; public contact and relations; oral and written communication, technical, mechanical and engineering, computer, electronics.; ABILITIES:Direct, evaluate, train, and supervise the work of assigned personnel; develop and maintain effective working relationships; maintain accurate and orderly records; use independent judgment and initiative; organize and direct activities; analyze and evaluate information, operate large astronomical telescopes.
    • Job Duties and Responsibilities
    Support Astronomer (SA) is responsible for nightly operation of the 3\.5m telescope and instruments, monitoring the data streams, tracking system performance and observing efficiency. The SA works closely with Astronomers and students, operating the telescope and instruments remotely, efficiently take observations and debug issues. They work with other night staff to monitor to the facility, weather and safe and proper operation of the telescopes. The selected candidate will perform setup/instrument preparations and calibrations, service observing and monitoring of remotely operated telescopes.Monitoring the performance of equipment and effectively communicating any problems with the day engineering and IT staff is required.
    Preferred Qualifications

    Special Requirements of the Position
    Department Contact: William Ketzeback, 575\-437\-6822, [email protected]
    Contingent Upon Funding: Contingent upon external funding
    Bargaining Unit Eligibility: This is NOT a bargaining unit position with American Federation of State, County \& Municipal Employees (AFSCME).
    Standard Work Schedule: Shift: Other Shift
    If Not a Standard Work Schedule: Monday – Sunday 8pm to 6am, night shift, afternoons, weekends or holidays may be required
    Working Conditions and Physical Effort
    Environment: Work involves moderate exposure to unusual elements, such as extreme temperatures, dirt, dust, fumes, smoke, unpleasant odors, and/or loud noises.
    Physical Effort: Moderate physical activity.
    Lifting Requirements: Requires handling of average\-weight objects up to 25 pounds or standing and/or walking for more than four (4\) hours per day.
    Risk: Work environment involves some exposure to hazards or physical risks, which require following basic safety precautions.