Position:
Operations Engineer
Status:
Full-Time
Reports To:
HCRO
Location:
Hat Creek Radio Observatory
Pay Rate:
$78,000.00 To $108,000.00 Annually

Note: A cover letter and resume are required attachments. Applications received without a cover letter and resume will not be considered.

POSITION SUMMARY

The SETI Institute is seeking a Full Time Operations Engineer to become a member of the Allen Telescope Array (ATA) team at the Hat Creek Radio Observatory. The incumbent is responsible for the maintenance, operation, and support of all scientific instruments at the Observatory. The ATA, our primary instrument, is currently undergoing an upgrade program which increases the capabilities of the instrument. As part of the upgrades the successful candidate will be tasked with assisting of the full buildout of 24 new receiver systems, which includes the construction, verification, and commissioning of each receiver. Furthermore, the role involves hands-on maintenance work of all receiver systems, cryogenic coolers, vacuum systems, RF signal components, and antenna control hardware. This position will be responsible for the overall physical infrastructure of the observatory and its instruments.

All of the work will be performed at the Hat Creek Radio Observatory in Hat Creek, California. On-site housing can be provided at the observatory. 

RESPONSIBILITIES:  

  • Maintain and troubleshoot radio telescope systems, including cryogenic cooling systems, vacuum systems, RF analog signal chains, and antenna control systems.
  • Provide hands-on support for the deployment of new instruments and upgrades to existing systems.
  • Assist with the scheduling of observations and provide training and technical support to students and interns.
  • Coordinate with external vendors and contractors to plan and supervise onsite work.
  • Diagnose and repair faults in receivers and associated subsystems to minimize downtime.
  • Maintain clear and detailed documentation of system configurations, maintenance procedures, troubleshooting steps, and upgrades to support continuity and knowledge transfer.  

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Completion of a master’s degree or bachelor’s degree program in Physics, Engineering or a related field.
  • 3+years of related experience in a similar field
  • Experience with electrical and mechanical assemblies.
  • Experience with cryogenic systems, vacuum systems, high frequency electronics.
  • Experience with software design tools, like Inventor, Eagle, Altium, and HFSS are desirable.
  • Experience with equipment, like Signal Generator, VNA, Spectrum Analyzer, Oscilloscope, Multimeter, Solder Iron, etc.
  • Experience with software development in one or more of Python, MATLAB, C/C++ or Java.
  • Commitment to open, transparent, and reproducible science.
  • Must be a team player and work in close collaboration with the team members at the observatory.  

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

 Reach or work above shoulders and use tools.

  • Lift, carry, push and pull objects that weight up to 25 lbs.
  • Work outside in hot weather conditions.
  • Perform computer-based tasks, or work in laboratory environment.

Salary and Benefits:

The SETI Institute offers competitive benefits, including Medical/Dental/Vision insurance

EEO/Veteran