Remote Observer Job Waimea Hawaii USA,Engineering

The Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope Corporation (CFHT), which operates a world-class 3.6-meter telescope at the summit of Maunakea, has an immediate opening for a qualified person to carry out science observations and operate the telescope. The observations are performed in the Queued Service Observing (QSO) mode, remotely from Waimea or from the Observatory at the summit. The Remote Observer (RO) has to ensure the safety of all operations and participate in other operational activities of the Remote Observing Process (ROP).

A basic requirement is a B.S./B.A. degree in astrophysics, physics, science, or equivalent knowledge. Students who have recently graduated and have knowledge and some experience of observational techniques and instruments used in optical-infrared astronomy are especially encouraged to apply. The candidate that will be hired will have the opportunity to deepen their knowledge of optical and near-infrared imaging, Fourier Transform spectroscopy, optical and near-infrared spectropolarimetry, and high-precision velocimetry.

This position is open until filled; we will begin reviewing applications as they are received. Our desired start date is no later than January 2027. For more information, please contact Dr. Nadine Manset, Director of Science Operations (mansetaii.edu).

DUTIES

Operates the telescope and all its associated systems (building systems, dome shutter, windscreen, autoguiders, etc.) in QSO or Classical mode in a remote environment or from the summit. Verifies and monitors all systems to ensure safe operation and optimum thermal and light conditions. Evaluates weather conditions and dome environment. Exercises judgment to ensure the safe operation of the telescope and instruments, to assess the feasibility of scientific observations.

Has the responsibility and authority to shutdown the facility in response to weather conditions and for safety reasons.

Selects the observations to be performed based on an understanding of the impact of the weather conditions and image quality on the scientific objectives of the scheduled programs. Must be able to work independently and autonomously. Performs other functions that relate to QSO observing. Regularly reviews science programs, instruments manuals, and calibration procedures in order to understand their objectives and impact on the observations.

Reports problems encountered during observations and evaluates the instrument performance.

Assists the visiting observers in the use of the CFHT instrumentation scheduled in Classical mode with data acquisition software and other facilities to perform observations from the summit for instruments not operated in the QSO mode or observations carried outside of QSO mode, including dewar fill, instrument night-time setup, and calibrations. Assists technical staff and visiting astronomers using those instruments.

Participates in general activities, outside of night time duties, related to the operation of an astronomical telescope such as implementing, testing, evaluating and improving the observing process subsystems, data reduction, data analysis, data distribution, and queue coordination. Keeps current in scientific knowledge and participates in science related activities such as seminars and talks.

Works effectively with others by sharing ideas in a collaborative, positive manner; listening to and objectively considering ideas and suggestions from others; keeping commitments; keeping others informed of work progress and issues; addressing problems and issues constructively to find mutually acceptable and practical solutions; and respecting the diversity of the CFHT workforce.

Maintains commitment to a high standard of safety, complies with all safety laws and CFHT safety policies/rules, and reports actual and potential safety violations to appropriate supervisory or management personnel. Ensures the safety of all personnel and equipment at the summit,
whether working at the summit or remotely.

Participates in the maintenance and updates of Web pages on procedures and information related to service observing in the QSO mode and telescope operation.

Assists in the training of Remote Observers.

Contributes to community engagement efforts, outreach and other tasks of general interests (WWW home page, Annual Report, etc.)

Performs other related duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS

A B.S./B.A. degree in astrophysics, physics, science or equivalent knowledge. Excellent knowledge of…