Position Description:Position SummaryThe 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 an experienced candidate to support operations, maintenance, and fabrication work on our antenna motion control electronics and fiber optic hardware. This hands-on position is responsible for repairs, maintenance, and upgrades to the Very Large Array and Very Long Baseline Array Servo and Fiber Optic systems. Work happens both at the bench and in the field, where you will climb our world-famous 25-meter antennas at the VLA site. The final position and job grade will be determined based on the candidate's education and experience. Knowledge of electronic components and schematics is preferred. Training in fiber optics will be provided.
This position will be based at the Very Large Array (VLA) site, 50 miles west of Socorro, NM.
What You Will be Doing:Under immediate to minimum supervision from engineers and technical staff, the position supports or performs assembly, testing, troubleshooting, and training for Antenna Control Units (ACUs), data and communications equipment, servo systems, motors, on-antenna weather stations and other equipment. The candidate will be required to be willing to respond to emergency call-outs during inclement weather, late night and or early morning hours. Other duties may be assigned.
The Technician level:
- Construct, adapt and calibrate assigned equipment.
- Trouble shoot, correct and repair malfunctioning equipment.
- Conduct various tests or experiments which may require modifications in test setups or procedures
- May record, analyze, and interpret test data.
- Use standard electronic test equipment, such as digital multimeter, spectrum analyzes, oscilloscopes, signal generator, and power supplies, to record unit performance, for inspection, adjustment, and/or replacement of defective system components.
- Use hand tools for mechanical work or repair.
- Is responsible for monitoring, inspection, and maintenance of assigned Servo and Fiber Optic group systems for proper operation.
The Technical Specialist level will also:
- Discuss the design, layout, assembly, testing and troubleshooting procedures and problems of parts and modules with engineers and technical staff.
- May devise design details and functional requirements of assemblies.
- Fabricate, assemble, and test prototype or production units.
- Set up standard test apparatus or devise test equipment to conduct functional, operational, environmental, and life tests to evaluate the performance and reliability of prototype or production units.
- Locate and order parts and equipment, locate and evaluate substitute parts for functional equivalence of any obsolete/non-obtainable components or parts.
- Write technical reports and develop charts, graphs, and schematics to describe and illustrate an assembly's operating characteristics, malfunctions, deviations from design specifications, and functional limitations.
Either level:
- Recommend changes required to achieve functional requirements of the units.
- Follow project schedules set by supervisors.
- Demonstrate proactive compliance with all NRAO policies and procedures.
- May have other duties as assigned
Work EnvironmentWork takes place in an electronics shop environment; employees are also required to work outdoors, in inclement weather and at heights when accessing an antenna. Candidates must be able to lift and carry 50 pounds and work at heights of 150 feet. Candidates must be able to work at a bench, either sitting or standing, for sustained periods. Visual acuity (corrected is acceptable) and manual dexterity is necessary to perform work. Work is done at the VLA site, which is approximately 7,000' in elevation.
Who You Are:Education- an associate's degree or higher
Experience- Minimum two years of related experience.
- While not required, three or more years of experience specializing in servo and/or fiber support is preferred.
Skills and CompetenciesMust have the ability to work independently and reliably with minimal supervision. Must be able to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing. Must be able to distinguish colors properly. Must be able to operate a personal computer. Must have the ability to work effectively in a team and clearly communicate technical information both in writing and orally. Ability to communicate in English is required. Must have a valid driver's license.
Must possess a valid driver's license. During the first six months candidate must pass any applicable knowledge/skills tests including soldering small components using a microscope and ability to work with fiber optics.
Physical RequirementsOccasionally required to ascend and descend work areas. Positioning self in different positions to maintain equipment is necessary. May occasionally work at high altitudes; and in high, precarious places, in outside weather conditions, and may be exposed to chemicals, or the risk of electrical shock. Working in a stationary position is sometimes required. Will need to be able to manipulate parts and hardware of all sizes and shapes. Must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities include close vision, distance vision, color and depth perception. Must have visual acuity, color perception, manual dexterity, hearing, and physical ability to perform satisfactorily all essential duties and responsibilities.
Additional Requirement- Must possess a valid driver's license. During the first six months candidate must pass any applicable knowledge/skills tests including soldering small components using a microscope and ability to work with fiber optics.
- Observatory employees must be authorized to work in the United States. The Observatory presently cannot sponsor H-1B Visas for this position.
Safety SensitiveThe selected candidate must successfully pass a post-offer, pre-employment/pre-placement drug screen. Failure to pass the screen will disqualify the candidate from employment consideration for a period of six months from the date of the results.
Total Rewards:CompensationThe starting salary/hourly rate of this position is between $20.00-$36.00 per hour. Factors which may affect starting pay within this range may include; education, experience, skills, competencies, other qualifications of the successful candidate, as well as internal equity and labor market conditions.
Benefits:Associated Universities, Inc (AUI) offers a comprehensive benefits package addressing the needs of employees and their families with most benefits beginning on the first day of employment, subject to eligibility requirements. AUI provides:
- Excellent paid time off (13 holidays, annual accrual of up to 24 vacation days)
- Medical, dental and vision plans are effective on the first day of employment.
- AUI's retirement benefit contributes an amount equal to 10 percent of a qualified participant's base pay with no required employee contribution.
- Click Total Rewards for more information.
Application Instructions:Select the "Apply" button above. Please be prepared to upload your current CV/Resume and a cover letter describing interest and suitability for the position.
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement:AUI is an equal opportunity employer. To view our complete statement, please visit If you require reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process, you may submit your request by sending an email to
