Position Description:
Position Summary
The National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) is an exciting and prestigious research facility that plays a vital role in the study of the universe. The Observatory operates a variety of radio telescopes that span the globe, including the famous Very Large Array (VLA) in New Mexico, the Green Bank Telescope in West Virginia, and the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA) in Chile. These telescopes are among the most advanced in the world, allowing astronomers to explore the universe in unprecedented detail.
At NRAO, we are seeking a technician to support operations, maintenance, and fabrication work on our antenna motion control electronics and fiber optic hardware. This hands-on position is responsible for repairs, maintenance, and upgrades to the Very Large Array and Very Long Baseline Array, Servo and Fiber Optic systems. Work happens both at the bench and in the field, where you will climb our world-famous 25-meter antennas at the VLA site. Candidates for this position should have a willingness to learn about electronics, reading circuit schematics and working with fiber optics. Training in fiber optics and electronics can be provided with this position after six months of satisfactory employment.
This position will be based at the Very Large Array (VLA) site, 50 miles west of Socorro, NM.
What You Will be Doing
Under immediate to minimum supervision from a technical manager and technical staff, this position supports or performs assembly, testing, and troubleshooting for Antenna Control Units (ACUs), data and communications equipment, servo systems, motors, on-antenna weather stations and fiber optic infrastructure. The candidate for this position must be willing to respond to emergency call-outs during inclement weather, weekends, late night and or early morning hours to assist other technical staff.
Technician:
Learn to construct, adapt and calibrate assigned equipment.
Learn to trouble shoot, correct and repair malfunctioning equipment.
May record, analyze, and interpret test data.
Use standard electronic test equipment, such as digital multimeter, spectrum analyzer, oscilloscope, signal generator, and portable power supply, to record unit performance, for inspection, adjustment, and/or replacement of defective system components.
Use hand tools for assembly work or mechanical repairs.
Monitor, inspect, and maintain assigned Servo and Fiber Optic systems for proper operation.
Follow project schedules set by supervisors.
Demonstrate proactive compliance with all NRAO policies and procedures.
May have other duties as assigned.
Work Environment
Work takes place in an electronics shop environment; employees are also required to work outdoors, in inclement weather and at heights when accessing an antenna. Candidates must be able to lift and carry 50 pounds and work at heights of 150 feet. Candidates must be able to work at a bench, either sitting or standing, for sustained periods. Visual acuity (corrected is acceptable) and manual dexterity is necessary to perform work. Work is done at the VLA site, which is approximately 7,000’ in elevation.
Who You Are:
Education
A high school diploma or high school equivalency.
Experience
You have an interest in electronics and fiber optics
You can work independently
You have good organizational skills
Competency Summary
Must have the ability to work independently and reliably with minimal supervision. Must be able to distinguish colors properly. Must be able to operate a personal computer. Must have the ability to work effectively in a team and clearly communicate technical information both in writing and orally. Ability to communicate in English is required. Must have a valid driver’s license.
Physical Requirements
Occasionally required to ascend and descend work areas. Positioning self in different positions to maintain equipment is necessary. May occasionally work at high altitudes; and in high, precarious places, in outside…