[ES_JOBS_NET] Solar Observer - Associate Scientist II, Mauna Loa Solar Observatory

[Christine Wiedinmyer]

https://ucar.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/UCAR_Careers/job/Mauna-Loa-Solar-Observat
ory/Solar-Observer---Associate-Scientist-II_REQ-2019-123-1

 

Job Title: Solar Observer - Associate Scientist II
Location: MLSO, Hawaii
Type: Full-time, Exempt 
Application Deadline: This position will be posted until 1/17/20, or until
this position is filled. 
Relocation: Relocation assistance is available for this position.
Work Authorization: UCAR/NCAR will sponsor a work visa to fill this
position.

Where You Will Work:

Located in Boulder, Colorado, the National Center for Atmospheric Research
(NCAR) is one of the world's premier scientific institutions, with an
internationally recognized staff and research program dedicated to advancing
knowledge, providing community-based resources, and building human capacity
in the atmospheric and related sciences.  NCAR is sponsored by the National
Science Foundation (NSF) and managed by the University Corporation for
Atmospheric Research (UCAR).

The Mauna Loa Solar Observatory (MLSO) occupies part of the NOAA Mauna Loa
research site located on the flank of Mauna Loa at an elevation of 3440
meters on the island of Hawaii. It is operated by the High Altitude
Observatory (HAO), a division of the National Center for Atmospheric
Research, which is located in Boulder, Colorado.

The MLSO is tasked with monitoring the solar atmosphere and recording data
on plasma and energetic emissions from the solar atmosphere. The
observations are used to study solar activity and its impacts at Earth and
to study long term changes on the Sun. A number of non-solar astronomical
observatories are also located at the site.

What You Will Do: Responsible for observing and collecting the highest
quality scientific solar data through the operation, troubleshooting, repair
and maintenance of  instruments for scientific observations of the Sun at
the Mauna Loa Solar Observatory. Responsible for operating, maintaining, and
assisting in the development of electro-mechanical and optical
instrumentation systems in support of solar research. Provides significant
feedback on quality of real-time observations and proper operation of solar
instruments. This job is performed at the Mauna Loa Solar Observatory (MLSO)
which is located on the Island of Hawaii, 45 miles from the city of Hilo.
MLSO is located on an active volcano at the 11,250 foot level, at a remote
site requiring a 3-hour commute (1.5 hours one-way) and special
attentiveness to established safety procedures. MLSO operations require the
ability to work irregular hours, between 5 AM and 6 PM, and a flexible
schedule, including Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays with an average work
week equaling 40 hours.

Responsibilities: 

.        Observes and collects solar data through the operation and
maintenance of solar telescope systems and the observatory facilities.
Closely monitors real-time data and adjusts instruments to ensure data
quality and proper performance of instrument.

.        One of three Mauna Loa observers that manage day-to-day operations.
Works closely with other observers, HAO instrumentation group, and MLSO
Manager in Boulder to identify and perform instrument and facility repairs
and improvements to ensure data collection and quality of data. Often
recommends corrective measures. Troubleshoots and may update on-site
scripting software.

.        Assists Mauna Loa and HAO staff in the design, fabrication,
installation, and testing of electromechanical subsystems and optical
scientific equipment and instrumentation.

.        Prepares and updates documentation associated with data operations
to aid in assuring proper functioning and maintenance of instruments, and
data quality and interpretation. May assist Mauna Loa staff in preparation
of technical reports regarding the status and needs of instruments and the
facility.

.        Occasionally provides tours of the facility to the general public
and scientific groups visiting MLSO.

.        Documents day-to-day activities, data quality, sky conditions and
other items in observer log to aid in data interpretation and assessing
instrument performance, maintenance and development.

.        Analyzes real-time data for instrumental problems, adjustments, and
repairs. Recommends corrective measures.

What You Need:

Education and Years of Experience: 

.        Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in a scientific or technical area
relevant to the operation of a solar observatory.

.        Two or more years' experience in operating, troubleshooting, repair
and maintenance of scientific instrumentation and facilities.   

.        Experience in cleaning sensitive optics strongly desired.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

.        Position requires high technical skills to keep the observatory
operating properly. General knowledge of science data collection and
instrumentation, assessing data quality and following detailed guidelines.
Basic knowledge of optics, general scientific methodology and terminology.

.        Advanced skills with and knowledge of electronics, optical and
electromechanical systems.

.        Advanced skill in troubleshooting and repairing electromechanical
instrumentation.

.        Knowledge and skill in using hand tools or machine tools.

.        Knowledge of computer and networked systems.  Experience with LINUX
and Windows.

.        Effective verbal and written communication skills.

.        Ability to work as a member of a team and communicate well with
others.

.        Ability to work at high altitude (11,250 feet).

.        Ability to work 13 hour days.

.        Ability to lift 50 pounds.

.        Ability to perform certain tasks while on a ladder.

.        Ability to drive and work alone at a remote location on some
workdays, possibly most workdays.

.        Ability to adapt to adverse weather while driving and working.
Will have to adapt to low temperatures, high winds and rain, ice and snow
irregularly.  Roads especially can be dangerous to navigate unless the
driver is observant and careful.

.        Must have a valid driver's license and a driving record consistent
with NCAR policy in order to operate GSA car.

Applicant Notes:

.        Please note that while the position description details both
minimum requirements as well as desired skills and experience, we want to
remind applicants that you do not need to have all the desired skills and
experience to be considered for this role. If you have the passion for the
work along with experience in a related field, you are encouraged to apply.
We can provide on-the-job training for the rest.

.        All newly hired employees are subject to pre-employment screening.

.        New and current employees hired, promoted, or who experience a job
change or transfer into certain UCAR risk-based positions are subject to
pre-employment screening and background checks.

The University Corporation for Atmospheric Research (UCAR) is an equal
opportunity/equal access/affirmative action employer that strives to develop
and maintain a diverse workforce. UCAR is committed to providing equal
opportunity for all employees and applicants for employment and does not
discriminate on the basis of race, age, creed, color, religion, national
origin or ancestry, sex, gender, disability, veteran status, genetic
information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or
pregnancy. 

Whatever your intersection of identities, you are welcome at the University
Corporation for Atmospheric Research (UCAR). We are committed to inclusivity
and promoting an equitable environment that values and respects the
uniqueness of all members of our organization.

 

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