Telescope Scientist/Engineer

The Observatory seeks a Telescope Scientist/Engineer who provides leadership in optimizing and enhancing the performance of the Large Binocular Telescope for enabling forefront science. This individual works with a team of scientists and engineers in addressing complex challenges and use of new technologies in applications that may include alignment and collimation of optical components, active optics control, instrument integration with the telescope, environmental control affecting telescope performance and image quality, or use of metrology, telemetry, and image analysis to assess telescope performance and inform control strategies.

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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• Develop tools and metrics for telescope performance in relation to science data quality and quantity.
• Carry out work independently while using innovation and creativity to address complex requirements, with considerable latitude in determining objectives and approaches.
• Monitor telescope performance, identify needs and opportunities for improvement in consultation with Science Operations staff.
• Identify actionable opportunities through development of new approaches and methods.
• Work with engineering, software, and mountain operations staff to define strategies to diagnose problems, implement solutions, and enhance telescope performance.
• Provide documentation and communicate with a wide range of stakeholders, which may include the LBT Board, in order to achieve buy-in for new approaches.
• Provide leadership in working with technical and scientific staff in developing new approaches to telescope control and operation to benefit scientific data quality.
• Provide training as needed for technical staff on topics related to telescope design principles and operation.
• Maintain an independent program of original research, related to telescope/instrumentation design and performance, and/or astronomical science.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge at a high level of operational considerations for large research telescopes.
• Ability to work with an interdisciplinary team.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

• Bachelor's degree in a scientific or engineering discipline, or equivalent advanced learning attained through professional level experience.
• Minimum of 8 years of relevant work experience, or equivalent combination of education and work experience.
• This position is based at the LBTO offices in
  Tucson and requires periodic travel and work at the observatory site, located
  at an elevation of 10,500 feet on Mt Graham

• Masters or Doctoral degree is preferred.
• Hands-on experience with optical components.
• Experience with analysis of astronomical data, optical design principles, control of optical or mechanical systems, or machine learning applied to telescope optimization or operation.