Telescope Operator (CTAO-N Site)

To strengthen its Project Office in La Palma (Spain), the CTAO is seeking a:

CTAO-N Site Telescope Operator

to work on CTAO-North Site initially on the commissioning of the Cherenkov Telescopes and then to operate the new instrumentation - Telescopes and ancillary calibration instruments.

Your key responsibilities:

• Set-up, operate and monitor the LST-1 telescope and subsystem, computer system and instruments, as needed at night- and day-time, to ensure optimal performance and data collection.
• Work with the LST and CTAO staff in finalizing the plan for night observations and report at the end of the shift
• Understand and document the techniques used to operate the Large Size Telescopes (LST) telescopes, which will be part of the future CTAO-North Observatory.
• As other LSTs and MSTs (Mid Size Telescopes) are added to the CTAO observatory in the future, learn and help document their use.
• Perform simple troubleshooting tasks, detecting and diagnosing any problems found
• Prioritize observing targets based on scientific objectives and weather conditions.
• Assist in the development and implementation of observing strategies and data reduction pipelines.
• Develop familiarity with instrument configuration and setup to provide back-up for absences of other support staff.
• Participate in outreach and educational activities to promote public engagement with astronomy and the mission of the observatory.
• Strictly adhere to safety protocols and procedures to ensure the well-being of personnel and equipment.

Your qualifications and experience:

• University degree in Astronomy, Physics, Engineering, Technical Physics, or other relevant fields, or equivalent experience.
• A minimum of 3 years of experience working in operating telescopes or astronomical instruments
• Familiarity with Unix, Linux and common computing software and OS
• Familiarity with astronomical data analysis software and techniques
• Certification for work at height and altitude is required
• Valid driver’s license, clean driving record, and the ability to drive manual transmission, AWD vehicles on mountain roads
• Ability to work night shifts, during the weekends and holidays as required
• Strong systematic and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work effectively both solo and as part of a team
• Excellent communication skills, both oral and written, in English, while command of the Spanish language is an advantage

You will be reporting to: CTAO North Site Manager

Your duty station: CTAO North Site on the Island of La Palma, located in the Canary Islands, Spain. The Telescope operators will be required to work during night shifts, mainly at the Observatorio de Los Roque de Los Muchachos (2200m asl). Daily work may also be carried out at the CTAO office situated at low altitude in La Palma. Occasional travels to the CTAO headquarters in Bologna, Italy, or to the location of in-kind contributor teams may be required.