Astronomy Observing Specialist
Job description
Classification Number:
900262
Classification Title:Astronomy Observing Specialist
Department:Sciences Technical Support Services
Level:Level C (Specialist)
Job Description:The successful applicants will manage and oversee acquisition and evaluation of astronomical data obtained with the 24" telescope at Mittelman Observatory atop McCardell Bicentennial Hall. Duties will include exercising proficiency with telescopes, instruments, and software packages and using these skills and techniques in conjunction with a mastery of astronomical principles of the night sky and celestial targets to obtain astronomical data for science and engineering purposes. The successful applicants will work both independently and with the Telescope Specialist who manages the observatory, its telescopes, and its outreach program. Scheduling and hours for this position will be irregular, often at night, and will require motivated, independent work.
Applicants must have advanced proficiency with the principles and practices of telescopes and instruments and intimate familiarity with the night sky. Applicants should have taken and excelled at Physics 155, mastered concepts of observational astronomy and telescope operation as part of one of these courses, served as Astronomy Outreach Event Assistant, or should have advanced equivalent experience with telescopes and observational astronomy. Applicants filling this position should already possess and should have successfully demonstrated the required skills, proficiencies, and training corresponding to Astronomy Outreach Event Assistant. Applicants will be responsible for attention to detail, data quality control, and safe and responsible operation of complex precision equipment. Applicants should enjoy observing with telescopes, acquiring data, and contributing to science and engineering projects that enhance the performance of the Observatory and the answering of scientific questions as a way of applying their knowledge about and enthusiasm for astronomy.
This position is approved for remote work from within the United States only.
STU01023
Location:Middlebury, VT Campus
Open Until Filled:No
Special Instructions to Applicants:This position is only open to Middlebury College undergraduate students, is available for both the academic year and the summer, and is accepting online applications. Questions regarding this posting can be directed to Jonathan Kemp at [email protected] and students are encouraged to reach out before applying online.
Quicklink for Posting:https://middlebury.peopleadmin.com/postings/21747