Research Technologist II, Steward Observatory; Safford AZ; Updated

Research Technologist II, Steward Observatory (Safford AZ) (Updated)

Posting Number: req
25956

Department: Steward Observatory

Location: Outside of Tucson

Address: 1480 W. State Route 366, Safford, AZ 85546 USA

Position Highlights: Steward Observatory is both a century‑old observatory on the University of Arizona campus and one of the University's oldest research units. Founded in 1918, the Observatory brings together students, staff, faculty, engineers, and technicians to explore the universe and share discoveries through world‑class research, education, and outreach. With more than 180 professionals supporting advanced facilities, laboratories, and observatories, Steward Observatory offers a collaborative environment where technical expertise plays a critical role in advancing ground‑ and space‑based astronomy.

The University of Arizona’s Steward Observatory invites you to apply for the role of Research Technologist II. The selected candidate will join Steward Observatory’s Mountain Operations team and provide maintenance and operations support at the Vatican Advanced Technology Telescope (VATT) on the summit of Mt. Graham, AZ. This includes mounting, servicing, and removing astronomical research instrumentation; performing standard instrument performance checks;

maintaining and troubleshooting telescopes and domes; and maintaining the telescope building as required. Duties will be performed with a high level of independence. The position requires the ability to work extended, irregular shifts and to take occasional after‑hours callouts, including during nights, weekends, and holidays. This position is based in Safford, AZ. The Research Technologist will start and end each workday at the Mt.

Graham International Observatory (MGIO) base camp in Safford, and will drive a university vehicle between the MGIO base camp and the Mt. Graham summit. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more!

Highlights of duties, responsibilities, and qualifications are listed below.

Instrumentation and Research Support:

• Maintains research facility equipment and provides operational support for research instrumentation.
• Leads instrument changes and performs basic‑level performance checks.
• Confers with engineers and other technical staff to define and refine procedures related to astronomical equipment.
• Interacts with faculty and external researchers.
• Collaborates with Mountain Operations team and Steward Observatory’s Safety Specialist to ensure equipment and facilities are kept in safe working order.

Observatory Operations:

• Performs maintenance and troubleshooting of telescopes and domes.
• Operates and maintains observatory equipment.
• Leads or assists with the preparation of telescopes and instruments for use and ensures the proper operation of telescopes and related equipment.
• Confers with engineers and other technical staff to define and refine procedures.
• Identifies and orders supplies and equipment as needed.
• Transports instruments, cryogenic liquids, compressed gases, supplies and equipment as required.

Facilities and Site Maintenance:

• Performs building and grounds maintenance as required to keep the research site operational, including plumbing, electrical and carpentry maintenance, repairs such as replacing solenoid valves, switches, relays, and thermostats; rewiring appliances; constructing partitions; and installing pipe and related plumbing fixtures.
• Uses power tools, hand tools, and a voltmeter to perform repair and maintenance work.
• Clears the site of snow as required, which may involve shoveling.
• Performs additional duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs):

• Ability to perform duties with a high degree of independence and limited or minimal supervision.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Adept at properly handling delicate optics and electronics.
• Basic understanding of,…