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Employment Opportunities with Gemini Observatory

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Information About Hawaii and Chile

The Gemini Observatory operates two forefront 8-meter telescopes, one located on Mauna Kea in Hawaii and the other on Cerro Pachon in Chile. The observatory is an international collaboration between the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Chile, Argentina and Brazil.

Openings

Science Research Intern SCI914T

Engineering Electronics Engineer ENG202P

AirCraft Spotter ENG812T

Mechanical Engineer - ENG308P

Senior Software Engineer ENG712P

AirCraft Spotter ENG811T

Software Engineer ENG717T

Human Resources Human Resources Generalist OPS302P

High Level Management Executive Vice President of AURA



Science

Research Intern SCI914T

  • Location: Hilo, HI
  • Deadline for Application: Open until filled
  • Job Code: SCI914T

Gemini North as an opening for a research intern (undergraduate student) to work with Dr. Inger Jorgensen on the Gemini/HST Galaxy Cluster Project in the period Sept 1 - Dec 31, 2010. The student is expected to be available for work for 20 hours per week in the period.

The student will work on processing of imaging and spectroscopic data of high redshift galaxy clusters, obtained with Gemini North. The data are part of a large data set obtained by an international group of researchers to study the evolution of galaxies over half the age of the Universe. The student will work closely with researchers at Gemini North involved in the project.  The successful applicant must have good English communication skills, including being able to clearly document performed work. Students with prior experience with NIX/Linux/MacOS-X, imaging processing, and handling larger data sets will be given preference. Training in the relevant processing techniques will be provided.

How To Apply


Engineering

Electronics Engineer ENG202P

  • Location: Hilo, HI
  • Deadline for Application: Open until filled
  • Job Code: ENG202P

Join our international team operating two of the world’s cutting-edge telescopes, located in Hawaii & Chile.  Immediate opening for and Electronics Engineer to perform electronic and automatic control related duties at a leading edge telescope.   Responsibilities include:  designing, maintaining, troubleshooting and upgrading telescope systems and instruments.  At least two years previous exp. In systems integrations and installations within Electronics Engineering environment required.  Must have strong background in state of the art digital and analog electronics and automated control systems.  Also, must be proficient in CAD, data acquisition and equipment programming software.  Bachelors Degree in Electronic Engineering required.  Required successful completion of a high altitude physical and a good driving record.  Ability to drive 4WD and work at 14,000 feet elevation.

How To Apply


AirCraft Spotter ENG812T

  • Location: Hilo, HI
  • Deadline for Application: Open until filled
  • Job Code: ENG812T

We are searching for team players to join Gemini Observatory Aircraft Spotter.    The Aircraft Spotter ensures that the Gemini North Laser Guide Star system is shuttered when aircraft pass over the telescope, the position is located at the Base Facility located in Hilo, to the Mauna Kea summit. The nature of the job requires mainly night-time work at the Mauna Kea summit located at 14,000 foot elevation.    Logs the time, compass heading, elevation, and general directional heading or known destination of all aircraft in the sky.  Notifying telescope personnel when aircraft approach the laser, Shutters laser system when aircraft comes in close vicinity of laser without warning.  Managing the inventory of Aircraft Spotter supplies, and coordinating the rotation of spotters during the night.  Monitors Laser Clearing House Target List shuttering windows and alert and notifies SSA of impending laser shuttering.  Monitors ASCAM for aircraft detection alerts and notify outside spotter or confirmation.  Does a final check of summit installation at the end of each LGS night to make sure the areas used by the spotter group are neat and clean: this includes kitchen, microwave oven, dishes, crew room, etc., other duties in support of Observatory operation as directed by supervisor.  Ensures compliance with Gemini Safety policies and procedures systematically consults with supervisor the Senior Laser/Optical Engineer.  The successful candidate will have excellent oral communication skills, be organized, reliable and practice good judgment.  Must be able to work a flexible schedule, mostly at night.   Position requires a high school diploma; previous training in first aid is a plus. Must be able to drive a 4WD automobile and have a clean driving record.  MVR will be run on the successful candidate!

This position is part-time and a temporary position

How To Apply


Mechanical Engineer - ENG308P

  • Location: Hilo, HI
  • Deadline for Application: Open until filled
  • Job Code: ENG308P

Excellent opportunity for an experienced, hands-on mechanical engineer.  This position is fully based on the summit of Mauna Kea, and will join an international team with first priority keeping an 8-meter class telescope and its associated systems working reliably.  The successful candidate will have full theoretical knowledge of the design and operation of chilled water systems, compressed air systems, hydrostatic bearings systems, HVAC systems, large mechanical structures, and small precision mechanisms, along with demonstrated ability to perform fluid flow analysis, heat transfer analysis, and structural analysis.  Must be familiar with computerized maintenance management systems, computer-aided engineering and design, and machine shop practice.  Must be located in or willing to relocate to Hilo, Hawaii.  Minimum requirements: Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical or facilities engineering or related field, plus two progressive years of experience in mechanical maintenance and troubleshooting, along with analysis, design, and construction experience.  Must possess good organizational skills and excellent written and verbal communication skills.

How To Apply


Senior Software Engineer ENG712P

  • Location: Hilo, HI
  • Deadline for Application: open until filled
  • Job Code: ENG712P

Excellent opportunity for an experienced Senior Software Engineer.  This position is based in Hilo, HI and will join an international team.  Researching new technologies and investigate ways in which they may be applied to solve problems faced by the observatory.  The successful candidate will have full knowledge of developing environments which includes; web applications, Swing desktop applications, and distributed backend services, along with demonstrated ability in an astronomical research environment.  Must have a minimum of five years of experience in software design.  Previous experience in an astronomical research environment highly desirable.  Practical experience in the following languages/tools is required: Significant Object-oriented design and development experience in C++ or Java, UNIX platform development under Linux and Solaris, User interface development in Tcl/Tk, Java or other toolkits, Significant development work in C/C++, Data analysis in Matlab, IDL, Python or Yorick, Knowledge of software design patterns, Familiarity with RMI and Jini technologies, XML, XML-RPC, and web services, Practical experience of the following tools and languages is desirable: Familiarity with Real-Time OS like VxWorks and EPICS framework, Low-level controls and hardware device drivers, Knowledge of OSGi.

How To Apply


AirCraft Spotter ENG811T

  • Location: Hilo, HI
  • Deadline for Application: until filled
  • Job Code: ENG811T

We are searching for team players to join Gemini Observatory Aircraft Spotter.    The Aircraft Spotter ensures that the Gemini North Laser Guide Star system is shuttered when aircraft pass over the telescope, the position is located at the Base Facility located in Hilo, to the Mauna Kea summit. The nature of the job requires mainly night-time work at the Mauna Kea summit located at 14,000 foot elevation.    Logs the time, compass heading, elevation, and general directional heading or known destination of all aircraft in the sky.  Notifying telescope personnel when aircraft approach the laser, Shutters laser system when aircraft comes in close vicinity of laser without warning.  Managing the inventory of Aircraft Spotter supplies, and coordinating the rotation of spotters during the night.  Monitors Laser Clearing House Target List shuttering windows and alert and notifies SSA of impending laser shuttering.  Monitors ASCAM for aircraft detection alerts and notify outside spotter or confirmation.  Does a final check of summit installation at the end of each LGS night to make sure the areas used by the spotter group are neat and clean: this includes kitchen, microwave oven, dishes, crew room, etc., other duties in support of Observatory operation as directed by supervisor.  Ensures compliance with Gemini Safety policies and procedures systematically consults with supervisor the Senior Laser/Optical Engineer.  The successful candidate will have excellent oral communication skills, be organized, reliable and practice good judgment.  Must be able to work a flexible schedule, mostly at night.   Position requires a high school diploma; previous training in first aid is a plus. Must be able to drive a 4WD automobile and have a clean driving record.  MVR will be run on the successful candidate!

This position is part-time and a temporary position

How To Apply


Software Engineer ENG717T

  • Location: La Serena, Chile
  • Deadline for Application: open until filled
  • Job Code: ENG717T

Excellent opportunity for an experienced Software Engineer.  This position is based in la Serna, Chile and will join an international team.  The position involves designing and implementing software as well as supporting and maintaining existing installed software for the smooth performance of the telescopes and instruments. The successful candidate will join a small but motivated international team focused on providing a user experience to match the world-class telescopes and instruments that Gemini provides to the research community.  Responsible for Designing and developing software for telescope systems, in collaboration with other groups including: Science, Information Systems and the rest of the Engineering team.   Assisting in commissioning new instruments in collaboration with external instrument building teams. This includes reviewing external software designs, integrating with Gemini systems, testing and commissioning on the telescope.  Following a rigorous software development life cycle which includes: design documentation, coding standards, unit & integration testing and deployment.  A Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field is required or a Master's degree may be considered in place of some of the required experience.  Must have a minimum of two years of experience in software design.  Previous experience in an astronomical research environment highly desirable.  Practical experience in the following languages/tools is required: Significant Object-oriented design and development experience in C++ or Java, UNIX platform development under Linux and Solaris, User interface development in Tcl/Tk, Java or other toolkits, Significant development work in C/C++, Data analysis in Matlab, IDL, Python or Yorick, Knowledge of software design patterns, Familiarity with RMI and Jini technologies, XML, XML-RPC, and web services, Practical experience of the following tools and languages is desirable: Familiarity with Real-Time OS like VxWorks and EPICS framework, Low-level controls and hardware device drivers, Knowledge of OSGi

This position is for a fixed term of 2 years

How To Apply


Human Resources

Human Resources Generalist OPS302P

  • Location: La Serena, Chile
  • Deadline for Application: open until filled
  • Job Code: OPS302P

The Human Resources Generalist coordinates the implementation of human resources services, policies, and programs to staff across all aspects of human resources and provides assistance to Managers in the performance of their duties.  This position also provides assistance to employees concerning human resources related services, and communicates/advises on HR policies and procedures as necessary to ensure consistent and equitable practices.  Responsible for providing advice to Managers and employees on compensation and benefits matters and input to the centrally administered programs.  Develops local programs geared to improving employee welfare, wellness and health, in conjunction with benefits specialist. Manages recruitment process including: writing job descriptions, placing adverts in press or with online job boards or with recruitment consultants, arranging interviews, conducting interviews, making job offers, taking up references and organizing start dates.  Manages Training and development process including: carrying out induction with new employees, organizing training schedules and courses for new and existing staff, keeping training records up to date, obtaining feedback from employees for training received.  Identifies individual training needs and coaching needs. Researches and provides appropriate solutions.  Participates in evaluation and monitoring of success of training programs. Follow-up to ensure training objectives are met.  Provides input and guidance to organizational design, structure and job descriptions.   Works closely with management and employees to improve work relationships, build morale, increase productivity and retention. Develops and supports employee morale events.  Provides HR guidance and advice to employees, line managers, and senior management, as required.   Manage and resolve employee relations. Provides day to day performance management guidance to line management (coaching, counseling, career development, disciplinary actions).  Conducts effective counseling and thorough and objective investigations.  Maintains documentation and performs exit interviews.  Provides HR Policy guidance and interpretation, assists in development and implementation of new HR policies and procedures; maintains employee handbook and policies and procedures manual.  Maintains in-depth knowledge of legal requirements related to day-to-day management of employees, reducing legal risks and ensuring regulatory compliance.   Maintains Human Resource Information Systems and compiles reports from database.  Delivers HR improvement projects aligned to Gemini planning process.

This position is for a 2 year fixed term.

How To Apply


High Level Management

Executive Vice President of AURA

  • Location: Washington, DC
  • Deadline for Application: see below
  • Job Code:

EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT

ASSOCIATION OF UNIVERSITIES FOR RESEARCH IN ASTRONOMY
 
The Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA) seeks to establish the position of Executive Vice President of AURA. This is a new position. The Executive Vice President would functionally serve as a deputy to the President and second in the overall corporate management structure.  We are seeking an individual with an outstanding background in science or science policy, and management.  The person must convey a strong vision and a demonstrated leadership and talent for administration in a complex and evolving environment.

The Executive Vice President will act on behalf of the President, will represent AURA and the President, and will carry out special initiatives at the direction of the President.  Factors that will be considered in the selection will include: familiarity with current issues in the nation’s astronomy program; familiarity with the Federal budget and policy process; experience in dealing with Federal funding agencies including NSF and NASA; and an understanding of the basic mission and role of AURA.

Salary and compensation will be established at a level appropriate to the candidate’s experience and comparable to senior staff levels within AURA.  
The Search Committee will begin evaluating applications on January 1, 2010. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Applications should include a description of the candidate’s experience, relevant accomplishments, a resume, a list of three references, and the individual's written view of the future landscape for astronomy and where AURA should fit in. Applications will be kept confidential, and should be sent to:

Dr. Bradley Peterson, Chair, AURA Search Committee
c/o AURA, 1212 New York Avenue N.W., Suite 450,
Washington, DC  20005

Women and minorities are encouraged to apply.
AURA is an EOE/AA/F/D/V employer

Questions related to this search should be directed to Bradley Peterson, Chair of the AURA Executive Vice President Search Committee at
peterson@astronomy.ohio-state.edu

Information and updates regarding this search are available on www.aura-astronomy.org


How to Apply:

Unless otherwise specified: Send current resume with cover letter relating your experience, education and background to the needs of the position, along with the names and contact information of three individuals familiar with your work/credentials/qualifications from whom a reference may be obtained. Please include the JOB CODE in your cover letter. Including salary history is appreciated. Cover letters and resumes must be written in English. Applications that do not conform to the specific requirements of the position will not be considered.

All applicants must be fluent in English and be able to write, speak and read English fluently. Spanish is a plus. All applicants are expected to be computer literate with the ability to use the Internet, e-mail and other applicable software applications.

E-mail: . GEMINI OBSERVATORY, Human Resources Department, 670 N. A`ohoku Place, Hilo, HI 96720. No phone calls, please.

Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified women and minorities encouraged to apply.

Information About Hawaii and Chile

Hawaii:

Chile: