Telescope Scientist/Engineer

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 interferometric capability and innovative adaptive optics technologies.  With these attributes, the facility can be considered the first of the new generation of Extremely Large Telescopes.

The LBTO 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 Observatory seeks a Telescope Scientist/Engineer who provides leadership in optimizing and enhancing the performance of the Large Binocular Telescope for enabling forefront science.  This individual works with a team of scientists and engineers in addressing complex challenges and use of new technologies in applications that may include alignment and collimation of optical components, active optics control, instrument integration with the telescope, environmental control affecting telescope performance and image quality, or use of metrology, telemetry, and image analysis to assess telescope performance and inform control strategies.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Develop tools and metrics for telescope performance in relation to science data quality and quantity. 
• Monitor telescope performance, identify needs and opportunities for improvement in consultation with Science Operations staff. 
• Work with engineering, software, and mountain operations staff to define strategies to diagnose problems, implement solutions, and enhance telescope performance. 
• Provide leadership in working with technical and scientific staff in developing new approaches to telescope control and operation to benefit scientific data quality. 
• Provide training as needed for technical staff on topics related to telescope design principles and operation.
• Option to maintain an independent research program.

Job Requirements

• Knowledge at a high level of operational considerations for large research telescopes. 
• Ability to work with an interdisciplinary team.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Bachelors degree required, Masters or Doctoral degree preferred.
• Minimum of 8 years of relevant work experience, or equivalent combination of education and work experience.
• Preferred qualifications: Hands-on experience with optical components; experience with analysis of astronomical data, optical design principles, control of optical or mechanical systems, or machine learning applied to telescope optimization or operation. 

This position is based at the LBTO offices in Tucson and requires periodic travel and work at the observatory site, located at an elevation of 10,500 feet on Mt Graham.