Service Observer

The Large Binocular Telescope Observatory (LBTO) is among the most powerful optical/infrared telescopes in the world, with two 8.4m-diameter mirrors on a single mount, located on the summit of Mount Graham near Safford, Arizona. The Observatory features a sophisticated suite of instruments for optical and infrared imaging and spectroscopy, supported by innovative adaptive optics technologies. The LBT is driving discoveries for cosmic sources ranging from exoplanets around nearby stars, to some of the most distant galaxies in the universe. The observatory is operated by an international consortium of leading research institutions and functions administratively as part of the University of Arizona, with offices in Tucson.

The Opportunity

The LBTO seeks a Service Observer to operate multi-million dollar optical/infrared instruments and adaptive optics systems at this unique facility. This individual will carry out measurements in consultation with scientists from the LBTO staff and member institutions. The Service Observer participates in observation planning, queue scheduling and management, and monitoring of data quality, in addition to execution of nighttime observations and daytime calibrations. The Service Observer has a key role in LBTO’s agenda for advancing forefront research.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Carry out night-time observations with optical/infrared imaging cameras and spectrographs in coordination with LBTO member astronomers. Ensure proper instrument configuration, monitor data quality, and communicate in real-time with astronomers to sequence observations and adjust schedule plans in response to observing conditions and shifting priorities. Carry out daytime calibration measurements as needed.
• Operate Adaptive Optics system to enable correction of atmospheric distortion for astronomical observations. Monitor system performance and assist in continuous improvement efforts for system robustness.
• Assist astronomers with observation planning and advise on the optimization of data based on instrumental configuration, source attributes, atmospheric conditions, and observation sequencing.
• Assist in the management of queue observations, including scheduling and preparation of observing scripts for instrument and exposure control.
• Monitor data quality and adapt scheduling in response to observing conditions and scientific prioritization.
• Assist in testing, development, and upgrades to software tools for observation planning and execution.

Desired Qualifications

• Knowledge of astronomical observation procedures and use of astronomical instrumentation.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Detail-oriented in the execution of tasks.
• Ability to work successfully as part of a team.
• Bachelor's degree or equivalent advanced learning attained through professional-level experience required.
• Minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience is required.
• Advanced degree in astronomy or a related field preferred.

The LBTO Community

At the LBTO and the University of Arizona, we value our inclusive climate because we know that diversity in experiences and perspectives is vital to advancing innovation, critical thinking, solving complex problems, and creating an inclusive academic community. As a Hispanic-serving institution, we translate these values into action by seeking individuals who have experience and expertise working with diverse students, colleagues, and constituencies. Because we seek a workforce with a wide range of perspectives and experiences, we provide equal employment opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or genetic information. As an Employer of National Service, we also welcome alumni of AmeriCorps, Peace Corps, and other national service programs and others who will help us advance our Inclusive Excellence initiative aimed at creating a university that values student, staff and faculty engagement in addressing issues of diversity and inclusiveness.