Precision Radial Velocity (PRV) Operations Scientist

At W. M. Keck Observatory, we are driven by a shared mission: to advance the frontiers of astronomy while inspiring discovery, innovation, and stewardship. We are seeking a Precision Radial Velocity (PRV) Operations Scientist to help lead scientific operations and advancement of Keck's precision radial velocity capabilities, with a focus on the Keck Planet Finder instrument, enabling groundbreaking exoplanet science and supporting the next generation of astronomical discovery.

This position offers a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of telescope operations, instrumentation, data quality, and scientific research. The successful candidate will collaborate with Observatory scientists, engineers, software developers, and the broader exoplanet radial velocity community to optimize precision radial velocity observations and maximize the scientific impact of Keck's world-class facilities.

The PRV Operations Scientist serves as a scientific and operational expert supporting high-precision radial velocity observing programs. This scientist will work closely with instrument teams, observing astronomers, and researchers to ensure operational excellence, data quality, and continuous improvement of PRV-related observing capabilities.

The role combines scientific expertise, operational leadership, user support, and collaborative research in support of Keck's mission and strategic goals.

• Establish routine checks of Precision Radial Velocity Instrument (PRVI) system health and performance at the full system (RVs) and subsystem level. This will include development of software algorithms executed in the PRVI data reduction pipeline to assess various aspects of PRVI data quality. 
• Provide continuous monitoring of PRVI system health and performance using automated checks and manual inspections based on a detailed understanding of instrument and subsystem requirements as well as calibration data quality.
• Work closely with the PRV Instrument Scientists, the PRVI DRP development teams, and the PRVI instrument development teams to take leadership on technical and scientific instrument support.
• Serve as the primary conduit between the instrument/observatory and the PRVI users on technical issues not under the purview of the PRVI Instrument Scientists.
• Provide technical and scientific leadership in instrument maintenance activities, responsive and preventative, for all PRVI subsystems.
• Interact with vendors of PRVI components (e.g., the laser frequency comb) to maintain regular performance within specifications.
• Support PRVI system upgrades that are endorsed by WMKO management.

Applications will be reviewed until a suitable candidate is found.