Telescope Mechanic II-III

National Radio Astronomy Observatory

Title: Telescope Mechanic II-III

Location: Old Hwy 60, New Mexico, USA

Requisition Number: 215

Job Family: Telescope Mechanic

Pay Type: Hourly

Required

Education:

CRA

The National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) is a prestigious research and development organization that plays a vital role in the study of the universe. 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 Engineering Services Division announces an opportunity for a full‑time Telescope Mechanic at the Very Large Array (VLA).

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. The appointment is expected to be made at the level of Telescope Mechanic I; in exceptional cases, a higher rank will be considered.

This is a Safety Sensitive position. The position is based at the VLA, 50 miles west of Socorro, New Mexico.

• Respond to routine maintenance, installation, testing, calibration, repair, and troubleshooting of mechanical, electrical, and limited electronic components issues 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.
• May assist Telescope Operators with receiver/equipment changes.
• Assist in taking and maintaining inventory of parts.
• Maintain records of maintenance activities, uses 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 own work area.
• Other duties may be assigned.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee works both outdoors on buildings and indoors in a shop. The employee works in high places, outside in all weather conditions, near moving mechanical parts and electrical equipment. Work is performed at a high altitude (7000 ft.) environment. Must be able to work in a high noise area with PPE.

• High School diploma or GED.

• Minimum of two years of experience as a radio telescope mechanic or comparable experience in the industrial maintenance field.

Ability to read and interpret documents such as schematics, blueprints, operating and maintenance instructions, procedure manuals, and Material Safety Data Sheets. Ability to write routine reports and correspondence. A working knowledge of machine shop, welding, and electrical techniques and procedures is desirable. Must have a good working knowledge of rigging and material handling techniques. Must be able to operate a personal computer.

• Must hold and maintain a valid New Mexico driver's license. (Class A CDL preferred)

The ability to climb antenna stairs and ladders to heights above 100 feet, lift equipment up to 50 pounds (unassisted) is essential. Must possess visual acuity (corrected is acceptable) and manual dexterity to perform work on small pieces or areas of work material, and hearing acuity in order to perform work safely with instructions and guidance being given over hand‑held radios and/or during operations of loud machinery.

Work is performed outdoors, at heights and near moving machinery.

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.

Compensation The…