Overview

National Radio Astronomy ObservatoryTitle: Operations Specialist I Location: NRAO, PO Box 2, GREEN BANK, West Virginia, United States of America Requisition Number: 213 Job Family: Operations Specialist Pay Type: Hourly Required Education: NET Position Description: Position 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. At NRAO we are seeking a Telescope Operations Specialist I to safely and efficiently monitor and operate one or more telescopes, monitor the performance of telescope systems, and assist engineers and technicians in diagnosing telescope equipment failures. This position is located on-site at the Green Bank Observatory in Green Bank, WV. What You Will be Doing The operator receives a schedule of observation programs or technical activities, reviews the objectives and requirements, enables required equipment, and then initiates and ends the observations. The incumbent communicates with on-site or remote observers, receives observing instructions from them, monitors their data collection, and makes changes and adjustments as needed. Archives data via computerized storage. May set up and run previously scripted observations without contact with the scientists (performs "service" observations). May assist scientists with basic quality analysis of data. Monitors data collection for radio frequency interference, aids in the identification of the source, and communicates this information to appropriate specialists. Initiates action to correct software or equipment problems. Notifies appropriate personnel for assistance if necessary. Monitors the weather conditions and takes prescribed actions when weather conditions exceed operating parameters. Maintains a detailed shift log of operating activities. Notes failures and abnormal conditions. Operates equipment for engineers and maintenance workers during maintenance periods. Serves as the work control contact either from the main control room or may be required to do this on site at each telescope. Reviews and revises existing operating procedures. Develops procedures and even schematics for new equipment based on technical information supplied by engineers or supervisor. May also develop technical reports to describe operating characteristics, abnormal conditions, and functional limitations. Performs inspections and servicing of telescopes, supporting equipment, and data collections systems. May assists in the training of other telescope operators. Work Environment Work is mission driven, team oriented and typically performed within a research or development environment. Indoor and outdoor work is required, occasionally at high altitudes and heights of up to 500 feet. This position works on a rotating, 12-hour shift pattern consisting of day and night shifts. Physical Demands The work is primarily indoors at a console with multiple computer terminals. Ability to distinguish the primary and secondary colors (red, blue, yellow, orange, green, etc.) and must have good depth perception (for when working at the telescopes). Ability to hear audible alarms and see flashing and/or illuminated lights, and able to work in high level noise environments. Ability to ascend and descend 2-4 flights of stairs, as well as also occasionally perform operating tasks as high as 37 stories above ground on grating type platforms in the open environment, in all weather conditions allowed within safety policies. May frequently lift up to 50 po