Las Campanas Observatory (LCO), Carnegie Institution for Science Observatories
Las Campanas Observatory (LCO) of the Carnegie Institution for Science Observatories—a world‑class astronomical institution—has an opening for a Science Operations Assistant (SOA) to work on the two 6.5‑meter Magellan telescopes.
As a key team member, the SOA will operate the telescopes and ensure the safe, efficient execution of night‑time observations. The successful candidate will have a solid grasp of the instrumentation suite to provide basic technical support for visiting and remote astronomers and will contribute to first‑line troubleshooting of telescope and instrument issues.
Job Description
- Operate the Magellan telescopes and instruments to ensure safe, efficient night operations.
- Monitor weather and site conditions and assess their impact on observing.
- Maintain clear, timely communication with visiting and remote astronomers.
- Perform basic troubleshooting; assist the technical team in diagnosing, resolving, and documenting issues.
- Write nightly and weekly reports on observations, system status, and performance.
- Contribute to the creation and revision of observing procedures.
- Safely handle cryogenic liquids.
- Undertake additional tasks aligned with organizational needs and your qualifications (e.g., documenting new subsystems, performance assessment of telescope/instruments, implementing new observing procedures).
Work schedule: 7 nights on site (2,300 m) / 7 nights off.
Education Required
- Advanced degree in astronomy, physics, or engineering and/or equivalent experience in telescope operations within an astronomical observatory or similar scientific environment.
Skills Required
- Hands‑on experience with telescopes and astronomical instrumentation.
- Knowledge of astronomical software.
- Computer proficiency in Linux or macOS environments.
- Strong teamwork, communication, and technical writing skills (reports,
📌 Science Operations Assistant (La Serena)
🏢 Las Campanas Observatory
📍 La Serena
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