Chief Engineer

Make a strategic move to join us as a Chief Engineer at W. M. Keck Observatory!

Do you have an intense interest in engineering, mathematics and science?  Do you have a knack for building strong relationships and working with a variety of different disciplines and systems? If so, take the time to apply for our Chief Engineer role at W. M. Keck Observatory!

About W. M. Keck Observatory: With acknowledgment and profound respect for the cultural, ecological, and scientific significance of Maunakea, W. M. Keck Observatory offers astronomers a unique vantage point to explore the universe. Our twin telescopes are at the forefront of astronomical discovery, offering transformative insights into the cosmos. We are dedicated to service, stewardship, and our community, all while advancing our mission to unlock the mysteries of the universe. Join us in this endeavor!

The priorities of a Chief Engineer:

Serving as a senior leader at W. M. Keck Observatory, the Chief Engineer collaborates with other leaders to ensure the overall implementation of the organizations strategic plan. In conjunction with this plan, the Chief Engineer takes part in the collective responsibility for making sure the organization meets all of its objectives. Working across a variety of departments the Chief Engineer aligns best safety practices and environmental health to provide stewardship and service to the community, the land, and the organization. Concerned with universal sustainability, the Chief Engineer designs staff development and succession planning to ensure transfer of knowledge and continued operational success.

A vital role to promoting the mission of the observatory, the Chief Engineer cares for the tactical, strategic and people needs of the engineering aspects of the observatory. Tasked with maintaining safety in technical operations, the Chief Engineer leads and works with various departments to make sure the observatory is able to fulfill its unofficial motto of “safely on sky every night.” Depth of understanding in multiple engineering disciplines will allow the Chief Engineer to proactively mitigate risk, while preparing the team for potential malfunction. The same understanding will allow the Chief Engineer to proactively plan for infrastructure renewal and upgrade to ensure sustainable long-term operations.