Job
Description
502380 NMSU satellite location, New Mexico, United States Staff Staff Full-time Closing at: Jul 19 2025 - 23:55 MDT Position Title: Support Astronomer Employee Classification: Support Astronomer College/Division: Arts and Sciences College Department: 330300-ASTRONOMY Internal or External Search: Internal/Private - by invitation to apply only Location: Remote Offsite Location (if applicable): Sunspot, NM Target Hourly/Salary Rate: Commensurate with qualifications Appointment Full-time Equivalency: 1.0 Exempt or Non-Exempt : Exempt Summary: The Department of Astronomy at New Mexico State University, a research-focused academic unit dedicated to excellence in education and discovery, invites you to apply for an available position at Apache Point Observatory located in Sunspot, New Mexico. Classification Summary: Operates telescopes and/or associated instrumentation to obtain astronomical data and/or assists Assists visiting astronomers in obtaining high quality observational data. Provides technical, scientific and logistical support to astronomers before, during, and after their observing runs a the telescope, including assistance with data analysis. Performs general and specific commissioning of the telescope and instruments. Conducts astronomical research. Classification Standard Duties: Supervise, direct, delegate, and evaluate work of assigned staff. Plan observing strategy for facilities where applicable. Perform quality assurance tests of telescope, instruments, and acquired data. Collaborate with colleagues in survey project preparing scientific results where applicable. Operate facilities to acquire scientific data. Develop commissioning plans for facilities and operational procedures. Perform commissioning tests, prepare reports. Perform periodic engineering tests and procedures, analyze and interpret results. Work with engineering staff to maintain and improve facilities. Interface with other project staff a different institutions regarding survey issues and progress. Perform related duties as required. Required Education, Experience, Certification/License, Equivalency Required Education:Master's degree in a related field.; Required Experience:Three (3) years of professional experience with modern astronomical spectrographic and/or imaging instruments, moderate to large telescopes, and astronomical data reductions with demonstrated successes in astronomical research.; Equivalency:Doctorate that includes observing experience (no additional experience needed), or Bachelor degree in a related field and five (5) years of experience related to the standard duties as outlined.; Required Certification/License: Knowledge, Skills and Abilities KNOWLEDGE:University and department policies and procedures; principles and practices of organization and administration; principles of supervision, training, and performance evaluation, telescope control systems, analysis of CCD images/spectra.; SKILLS:Short- and long-range planning; problem analysis and resolution; report preparation and presentation; public contact and relations; oral and written communication, technical, mechanical and engineering, computer, electronics.; ABILITIES:Direct, evaluate, train, and supervise the work of assigned personnel; develop and maintain effective working relationships; maintain accurate and orderly records; use independent judgment and initiative; organize and direct activities; analyze and evaluate information, operate large astronomical telescopes. Job Duties and Responsibilities Support Astronomer (SA) is responsible for nightly operation of the 3.5m telescope and instruments, monitoring the data streams, tracking system performance and observing efficiency. The SA works closely with Astronomers and students, operating the telescope and instruments remotely, efficiently take observations and debug issues. They work with other night staff to monitor to the facility, weather and safe and proper operation of the telescopes. The selected candidate will perform setup/instrument preparations and calibrations, service observing and monitoring of remotely operated telescopes.Monitoring the performance of equipment and effectively communicating any problems with the day engineering and IT staff is required. Preferred Qualifications Special Requirements of the Position Department Contact: William Ketzeback, 575-437-6822, bketzeba@nmsu.edu Contingent Upon Funding: Contingent upon external funding Bargaining Unit Eligibility: This is NOT a bargaining unit position with American Federation of State, County & Municipal Employees (AFSCME). Standard Work Schedule: Shift: Other Shift If Not a Standard Work Schedule: Monday – Sunday 8pm to 6am, night shift, afternoons, weekends or holidays may be required Working Conditions and Physical Effort Environment: Work involves moderate exposure to unusual elements, such as extreme temperatures, dirt, dust, fumes, smoke, unpleasant odors, and/or loud noises. Physical Effort: Moderate physical activity. Lifting Requirements: Requires handling of average-weight objects up to 25 pounds or standing and/or walking for more than four (4) hours per day. Risk: Work environment involves some exposure to hazards or physical risks, which require following basic safety precautions.
