Telescope Mechanic

Position Description

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.

At the Green Bank Observatory (GBO) we are announcing an opportunity for a full‑time Telescope Mechanic. Under direct supervision, the telescope mechanic provides routine maintenance service to scientific investigations through the construction, installation, testing, repair, and maintenance of a radio telescope and associated equipment used to collect radio astronomical data for a variety of observers. This safety‑sensitive position is entry level of a four‑level progressively complex telescope mechanics opportunity.

• Respond to routine maintenance, installation, testing, calibration, repair, and troubleshooting of mechanical, electrical, and limited electronic components on all telescopes and related equipment.
• Provide limited assistance, as qualified, in the operation and testing of telescope and operating equipment when required.
• Assist in the functional evaluation of newly installed equipment to evaluate system performance under actual operating conditions.
• Assist Telescope Operators with receiver/equipment changes.
• Maintain inventory of parts.
• Maintain records of maintenance activities and use PC as required.
• Assist with indoor/outdoor painting when required.
• Maintain tools and equipment in safe operating condition.
• Assist other maintenance and support personnel as assigned.
• Use hand and power tools; work from verbal or written instructions, sketches, and prints.
• Proactively comply with NRAO and government safety policies and procedures in your work area.
• Perform any other duties as assigned.

Must be comfortable working on open structures up to 500 feet tall, outdoors in all weather conditions, near moving parts, and electrical equipment. Must be able to work in a high‑noise area with Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and be able to climb antenna stairs and ladders to heights above 100 feet, lift equipment up to 50 pounds unassisted, and possess visual, manual, and hearing acuity necessary for safe work at heights and near moving machinery.

• Minimum of a High School diploma or general education degree (GED).
• Minimum of 2 years of experience, or an equivalent combination of relevant education and experience.

• Preferred but not required: mechanical work, industrial or other maintenance of heavy equipment, welding, or industrial spray painting.

• Strong verbal communication skills necessary for effective consultations with coworkers and team participation.
• Ability to use the NRAO online time reporting and requisition system.
• Skill to read and interpret documents such as schematics, blueprints, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
• Working knowledge of machine shop, welding, and electrical techniques and procedures.

• Must hold and maintain a valid West Virginia Driver’s license.

The 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.

The starting hourly rate of this position is between $20.98 and $24.23 per hour. Pay may be affected by education, experience, skills, competencies, other qualifications, internal equity, and labor market conditions.

• Excellent paid time off (13 holidays, annual accrual of up to 24 vacation days).
• Medical, dental, and vision plans 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.

AUI is an equal opportunity employer. To view our complete statement, please visit (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). If you require reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process, you may submit your request by sending an email to resumes.