Archived Job Ad

Systems Support Associate - Gemini Observatory

No. 26543
Position/Title: Systems Support Associate
Institution: Gemini Observatory

Submit Resumes To:
Attention: gemini-jobs@gemini.edu

URL1: www.gemini.edu
URL2:
URL3:

The closing date for receipt of applications: 07/31/2010 (Application date has passed)

Job Description:

Gemini Observatory has an immediate opening for a System Support Associate at Gemini South. The System Support Associate (SSA) operates the telescope, instruments and computer systems on behalf of the scientists and engineers during daytime and nighttime operations. The SSA is responsible for the safety of the people, the telescope and the instruments at night. Daytime responsibilities at sea level include instrument calibrations, software testing, preparing the telescope and instruments for nighttime operations, troubleshooting faults with the engineering team, analyzing data, and reporting status at daily coordination meetings. In addition to safety, nighttime responsibilities include operating the telescope and instruments to perform scientific observations; assisting visiting and staff observers; working with engineers and science teams during instrument commissioning; and troubleshooting telescope and instrument systems. The SSAs are part of the science operations team. The typical SSA schedule is a combination of day and nighttime work. Current SSAs spend an average of 6 nights per month on the summit; this number is subject to change and varies by person within the group based on their responsibilities. Daytime work is conducted primarily at the sea level base facility in La Serena.

The applicant must be safety conscious, willing to participate in safety training and assume safety responsibilities while on nighttime duty at the summit. Must possess good communication skills and knowledge of software and hardware systems. Must be familiar with Unix Linux, and familiarity with computer languages such as TCL, C, Java, EPICS or Perl are a plus. Must have a good understanding of observational astronomy. Previous experience in operation of ground-based telescopes and instruments, and/or knowledge of astronomical instruments and optical and infrared observing techniques is strongly preferred. Bachelor in science, engineering, astronomy, or computer science required. Master’s in astronomy or physics desirable. Requires valid driver’s license, clean driving record and ability to drive 4WD vehicles. Must be capable of working in a remote location at 2900 meters (8,900 ft) elevation. International travel is expected.

Gemini offers an attractive and competitive salary and benefit package. Gemini South headquarters are located in La Serena, Chile, a popular seaside town with a population of about 140,000 people, a temperate climate, and a substantial international astronomical community. There are currently three observatories operating out of the AURA compound in La Serena, and two other observatories in the area. The Gemini South telescope is on the brink of an exciting new era of science operations: a laser-fed multi-conjugate adaptive optics system, the first of its kind, will begin commissioning in 2011 and three new instruments are expected to become available to our international community during the next two to three years.

The Gemini Observatory mission is exploring the universe and sharing its wonders. Come join our international team operating two of the world’s leading ground-based 8m telescopes, located in Hawaii & Chile.

Send current resume with cover letter relating your experience, education and background to the needs of the position, along with the names and contact information of three individuals familiar with your work/credentials/qualifications from whom a reference may be obtained. Please include AAS Job Register number in cover letter, if applicable.

The consideration and evaluation of candidate materials will begin June 1st, 2010 and will continue until the position is filled.

For further information about the positions please contact Dr. Bernadette Rodgers, Gemini-South Head of Science Operations (brodgers@gemini.edu) or Ariel Lopez, Gemini South Lead SSA (alopez@gemini.edu). Further information on Gemini can be found at: http://www.gemini.edu . AA/EOE

Included Benefits:

No benefits information has been provided by the employer.

Archived Job Ad