Astronomer

Astronomer
Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory
The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory is part of the largest and most diverse astrophysical institution in the world, where the staff carries out a broad program of research in astronomy, astrophysics and earth and space sciences. If you would like to join this exciting organization, apply today!

The Minor Planet Center (MPC) operates at the CfA within the Solar Stellar Planetary Sciences Division. The MPC is the single worldwide location for receipt and distribution of all astrometric and radar observations of the Solar System’s small bodies. The MPC is responsible for the identification, designation and orbit computation for all of these objects.

The MPC seeks to hire an Astronomer.

This is a career ladder position with promotion potential to grade 13.  If selection is made at the grade 12 level the selectee may be non-competitively promoted to the next higher level up to the grade 13 upon recommendation of the supervisor based on classification requirements, satisfactory performance, qualifications of the employee and recommendation of the Professional Accomplishments Evaluation Committee (PAEC).

Duties may include but are not limited to: Function as part of a team in the processing of orbital elements and related information received by the MPC. Independently contribute to team efforts to design and develop substantial modifications to current techniques for the determination of orbits from observations. Independently contribute to team efforts to discover and correct errors in the MPC’s orbital and observational databases.

Independently contribute to team efforts to apply new procedures for determining the orbits of minor planets. Assist in the preparation of reports on activities by the Minor Planet Center and on related activities by the national and international community, as well as proposals that can lead to funding opportunities. Assist in the preparation of papers on such analyses and related topics for publication in scientific journals and presentation at scientific meetings.

For further information and requirements, view the complete Job Vacancy Announcement at:

https://www.cfa.harvard.edu/opportunities/sao-employment-opportunities/posting-23-76

Application Procedure: SAO will only accept applications online for this position. For complete information and online application procedures, please visit: USAJOBS

The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity in our workplace.