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Position Announcement
NPOI OBSERVER TECHNICIAN
The Navy Precision Optical Interferometer (NPOI) Observer/Operator primarily conducts observations
at NPOI according to instructions and target lists specified by the user, generally the Naval
Observatory. He/she may also provide technician support to the Interferometer, analytical support
for NPOI data reduction, or telescope operator (TO) support to DCT or the Anderson Mesa telescopes
as required. As observer/operator, he/she is responsible for the safety of equipment and personnel
on site during night operations. This position reports to the Telescope Facilities Manager.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Interferometer Operation
In the role of NPOI Observer, responsibilities include night-time setup and operation of the
interferometer, log entries and creation of data files required to document the results, system
closure and shutdown as demanded by ambient weather conditions and safety protocols, and normal
shutdown at the end of each observing night. The Observer shall also perform first-level
troubleshooting to resolve system problems, record diagnostic information needed by the daytime
crew, and perform adjustments and alignments as necessary for optimized data acquisition.
Interferometer Support and Maintenance
Additional NPOI-related responsibilities include support to Naval Observatory - Flagstaff Station
(NOFS) or Naval Research Lab (NRL) engineering and scientific staff and Lowell Observatory site
maintenance staff; support for upgrades to the array and its instrumentation; support for retrofits or
servicing efforts; creation and maintenance of on-line procedures and checklists; and astrometric
and imaging data analyses. The Observer may perform alignments, adjustments, and maintenance of
NPOI optical and mechanical systems and instrumentation under the direction of NOFS or NRL
engineers. The Observer shall be cognizant of system and facility malfunctions and report such
malfunctions to Lowell and Navy engineering staff. When necessary, the Observer may be required
to augment Lowell maintenance personnel, for example with maintenance of the control building
common area and with snow clearing operations or other seasonal demands. The Observer may be
required to assist the site engineer or technicians with tasks involving lifting and carrying objects
weighing 50 lb or more. Observer tasks routinely require the ability to work alone and navigate the
array at night and in adverse weather conditions, and include working for short periods in confined
spaces, such as the domes and astrometric huts.
Telescope Operation
In the role of telescope operator at any Lowell research telescope, responsibilities include
completion of required training, night-time setup, operation in support of engineering and science
objectives, log entries, data recording, system closure and shutdown. The operator shall assess
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ambient weather conditions and ensure that appropriate measures, such as stowing and closing the
telescope and dome are taken if prescribed limits are exceeded, or if in the operator’s judgment,
such action is prudent. The operator shall inspect the telescope and instrument(s) nightly as defined
by the startup checklist, and report to engineering any anomalous conditions, including any obvious
or apparent software bugs. He/she shall also perform night-time tests requested by engineering to
assess telescope or instrument performance, using procedures defined by the engineering staff.
QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPECTATIONS
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Ability to work independently, reliable, self-motivated, efficient, and respectful of other
staff member’s time and responsibilities.
Professional oral and written communication skills and the ability to interact efficiently and
positively with scientists and staff required.
Familiarity with reflective optics, optical alignment, the use of optical equipment, and the
ability to efficiently operate a complete computer control system in a UNIX environment
desired.
Work Environment
Work is performed at a remote location, which is subject to harsh winter weather.
Work is indoors and outdoors (in changing outside temperatures/weather conditions).
Requires ability to lift and manipulate heavy objects (40lbs or more).
Requires standing, walking, bending, handling, reaching, grasping, driving and repetitive motions.
Must be comfortable working nights, rotating shifts, and walking alone within the 8 acre
interferometer site. Occasional unscheduled work required to attend meetings and fill in during
co-worker absences.
• Non-smoking environment.
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EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION
BS/BA in physical sciences, engineering, or referenced experience indicating the necessary
qualification to perform the work. UNIX based multi-window computer controls system experience
desired. Experience and/or aptitude for “hands on work” performing optical alignment is desired.
Compensation Type:
Days and Schedule:
Status:
Benefit Eligible:
FLSA Classification:
Hourly
Irregular, according to observing schedule
Full Time, Regular
Yes
Non-Exempt
Please complete an application (http://www.lowell.edu/about_jobs.php) and send it with a resume, letter of interest
addressing your qualifications and phone numbers and e‐mail addresses of three references to the email address listed on
the Lowell application. First round of review 6/1/2015.
Lowell Observatory is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and provides equal employment
opportunity to all persons without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, genetic information, disability,
veteran status, political beliefs, sexual orientation, and marital and family status.
Lowell Observatory provides reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. This nonsmoking campus is at an
elevation of 7,000 ft/2100m. If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process,
please notify the Human Resources office for assistance.
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Version May 16, 2015/HR
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