The successful applicant will be an Electrical Engineer in the Electronics and Electrical Group within the MSE Department at the Paranal site of the La Silla Paranal Observatory.
In ****, in order to prepare for the integrated operations with ELT, the Observatory organizational structure will change and be process-based so all engineers will be moved to the new structure, keeping similar roles and responsibilities.
Main Duties and Responsibilities:
The selected candidate will have the following main duties:
Electrical Systems Operation and Maintenance
Plan and oversee preventive and corrective maintenance of electrical systemsEnsure high availability and reliability of equipment including MV/LV networks, UPS systems, grounding, and power qualityPerform and support fault analysis, troubleshooting, and root cause investigations
Electrical Projects and Engineering
Lead and contribute to electrical engineering projects from definition through design, implementation, and commissioningDefine technical requirements for new systems, upgrades (including normal and UPS supply)Coordinate with internal teams and HQ for integration of new infrastructure and instruments
Energy Management
Develop and monitor energy consumption forecastsOptimize electricity usage and contribute to energy efficiency initiativesManage energy billing and cost analysis
Contract and Service Management
Manage electrical service contracts, including maintenance of critical systems (e.g., PCS)Define technical specifications, supervise contractors, and ensure quality of deliverables
Lifecycle and Obsolescence Management
Develop and implement obsolescence and lifecycle management strategiesPropose and implement obsolescence mitigation actionsAssess risks and define upgrade and replacement plansPromote system standardization and long-term sustainability




Interface with ESO HQ and Projects
Act as the technical focal point for HQ-led projectsSupport design reviews, installation, testing, and commissioning phases
Safety and Compliance
Ensure compliance with electrical safety standards and regulationsSupport risk assessments and safe work practices, including LOTO procedures
Reports to:
The Group Leader of Electronics and Electrical Group
Experience:
The candidate has, ideally, 5 years of professional proven experience in
Electrical engineering projects (design, installation, commissioning)Maintenance of electrical infrastructure in complex or industrial environmentsPower systems (MV/LV), UPS, and power qualityContract management and contractor supervisionRelevant IEC standards and safety regulations
Desirable experience:
In scientific or large-scale technical facilitiesKnowledge of energy management systems and power quality monitoringExperience in lifecycle or asset management strategies
Key Competences:
The candidate should have several of the following competences (technical and soft):
Team player and ability to collaborate effectively in a multinational and multicultural environmentAbility to understand complex systems at both system and detail level.Analytical and troubleshooting skills.Hands-on, structured, and pragmatic working approach.Good self-organization and ability to manage priorities.Proactive attitude toward continuous improvement.Motivation to contribute to a leading international astronomical organization.
Qualifications:
University degree in electrical engineering.
Language Skills:
ESO is an international organization where the official language is English.
The position requires excellent oral and written communication skills in English.
Spoken Spanish is highly desirable for communication in the day-to day business.
#J-*****-Ljbffr

📌 Electrical Engineer (Antofagasta)
🏢 European Southern Observatory
📍 Antofagasta