Overview

National Radio Astronomy ObservatoryTitle: Engineer Group Lead, VLA Location: Old Hwy 60, New Mexico, USA Requisition Number: 302 Job Family: Mechanical Engineer Pay Type: Salary Required Education: ENG Positions Description: Positions Summary The National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) is a prestigious research and development organization that plays a vital role in the study of the universe. Associated Universities, Inc. (AUI) is a nonprofit organization that manages and operates the NRAO under a cooperative agreement with the National Science Foundation. The Observatory is a hub for technological and scientific collaboration, operating state-of-the-art radio telescope facilities for use by the international scientific community. The Observatory has been instrumental in the study of black holes, galaxies, and the early universe. The NRAO announces an Engineering Lead will provide managerial and operational support for the Very Large Array (VLA) engineering group. The Engineering Lead has broad overview responsibility for VLA site. Executes a maintenance program for repairs, routine preventative maintenance procedures and to identify and track patterns of failure. Takes a leadership role in establishing and guiding safe procedures, recognizing and correcting unsafe practices, enforcing the use of PPE, reporting incidents/accidents, establishing and maintaining a JSA program and complying with the NRAO safety plan. Provides engineering support to the VLA, Next Generation Very Large Array (ngVLA), and Very Long Baseline Array (VLBA). Responsible for the overall management, coordination, scheduling, budgeting, training and supervision of a small engineering team. Provides technical guidance to the antenna mechanics, painting, electrical and electronic equipment, HVAC, computer hardware and software, automotive mechanics, railroad maintenance, plumbing, carpentry and facilities maintenance. The position is based at the VLA radio telescope site, 50 miles west of Socorro, NM. Socorro is a small, historical town in the Rio Grande Valley, 75 miles south of Albuquerque What You Will be Doing: The essential duties and responsibilities will include but are not limited to: Responsible for the overall management, coordination, scheduling, budgeting, training and supervision of the VLA mechanical engineering group, machine shop and electrical engineer. Responsible for organizing the approach to solving complex and unique engineering problems. Responsible for engineering analysis, design, and execution of major projects and systems. Makes decisions and determinations in design, procurement, manufacture, erection, testing, and some degree of initial operation. Uses computer assisted engineering and design software and equipment to design equipment, components, systems or structures for radio telescopes and related systems. Modifies existing software and hardware to add new features and improvements, or correct original design problems. Directs other engineering and technical personnel in the fabrication and testing of equipment, and determines methods, procedures, and conditions for testing. Ensures manufacturing, construction, installation, and operational testing conform to functional specifications and requirements. Works with engineers, technical specialists and scientists to identify and solve problems. Determines repair and maintenance needs. Coordinates and directs operation, maintenance, and repair of equipment, systems, and structures. Makes recommendations for procedures, equipment purchases, and other improvements. Supervise other Engineers, Technical Specialists, Technicians, cooperative education students and/or summer students including hiring, training, planning, assigning, and directing work, addressing complaints, and resolving problems. Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the Observatory's policies and applicable law. Proactive compliance with NRAO and government safety policies and procedures in