Electronics - Technical Specialist II

Position Description:

Position Summary

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.

The Observatory has been instrumental in the study of black holes, galaxies, and the early universe.

• At NRAO, we are recruiting a Technical Specialist II
  - Under general supervision from scientists and engineers, devises, layouts, fabricates, calibrates, tests, analyses, troubleshoots and/or repairs astronomical research related equipment such as computers, electronics, electrical, cryogenics, and lasers. Work performed is moderately independent. This is the intermediate level of four progressively more complex positions.

This position is located on-site at the Green Bank Observatory in Green Bank, WV .

What You Will be Doing:

• Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  
  Discusses the design, layout, assembly, testing and troubleshooting procedures and problems with engineers and technical staff. May draw sketches to clarify design detail and functional criteria of the units. Designs, fabricates, assembles, and tests prototype or production units. Sets up standard test apparatus or devises test equipment to conduct functional, operational, environmental, and life tests to evaluate the performance and reliability of prototype or production units.
  
  Analyzes and interprets test data. Locates and orders parts and equipment; identifies necessary components by using part numbers and/or standard color codes. Locates and evaluates substitute parts for functional equivalence of any obsolete/non-obtainable components or parts. Writes technical reports and develops charts, graphs, and schematics to describe and illustrate the unit's operating characteristics, malfunctions, deviations from design specifications, and functional limitations.
  
  Recommends changes required to achieve functional requirements of the units Follows project schedules set by supervisors. Records final test results and writes reports on proper fabrication techniques. May assist in the installation of the finished units. May check functionality of installed equipment to evaluate system performance under actual operating conditions. Exercises a high degree of initiative and judgment, requiring a broad technical background, in the form of considerable experience (and some education) in the field of work or in closely related fields.
  
  Performs miscellaneous functions, such as maintenance and servicing of facilities and equipment, records and reports. May perform preventive and corrective maintenance of test apparatus and peripheral equipment. May train and lead technicians and others in the performance of their duties. Proactive compliance with NRAO and government safety policies and procedures in own work area is expected. Other duties as assigned.

Work Environment

Work is mission driven, team oriented and typically performed in a research or development environment, in a lab, shop or climate-controlled environment. May also work at heights near mechanical and powered equipment. May be occasionally required to work outdoors.

Who You Are:

Education

• Associate's degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience Five years.

Experience

• Five years of related experience required for the position includes mechanics, electrical/electronic technology, physics, welding, machining or field related to the applicable technical area.

Skills and Competencies

• Requires the skilled application of practical principles of mechanics, electrical/electronic technology, physics, or related…