Servo-Fiber, Technician III-IV, Technical Specialist I-II (5024)

Position Description:

Position Summary

The National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) is a diverse, exciting, and prestigious research facility that plays a vital role in the study of the universe. The Observatory operates a variety of radio telescopes that span the globe, including the famous Very Large Array (VLA) in New Mexico, the Green Bank Telescope in West Virginia, and the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA) in Chile. These telescopes are among the most advanced in the world, allowing astronomers to explore the universe in unprecedented detail.

The NRAO is seeking experienced applicants to apply for a position that supports operations, maintenance, and fabrication work on our antenna motion control electronics and fiber optic hardware. This hands-on position is responsible for repairs, maintenance, and upgrades to the Very Large Array and Very Long Baseline Array Servo and Fiber Optic systems. Work happens both at the bench and in the field, where you will climb our world-famous 25-meter antennas at the VLA site.  The final position and job grade will be determined based on the candidate’s education and experience. Knowledge of electronic components and schematics is preferred. Training in fiber optics will be provided.

What You Will be Doing

Under immediate to minimum supervision from engineers and technical staff, the position supports or performs parts kitting, assembly, testing, troubleshooting, and training for Antenna Control Units (ACUs), data and communications equipment, servo systems, motors, on-antenna weather stations and other equipment. The candidate will be required to be willing to respond to emergency call-outs during inclement weather, late night and or early morning hours. Other duties may be assigned.

The Technician level will

• Construct, adapt and calibrate assigned equipment.
• Trouble shoot, correct and repair malfunctioning equipment.
• Conduct various tests or experiments which may require modifications in test setups or procedures

• May record, analyze, and interpret test data. 
• Use standard electronic test equipment, such as digital multimeters, spectrum analyzers, oscilloscopes, signal generators, and power supplies, to record unit performance, for inspection, adjustment, and/or replacement of defective system components.
• Use hand tools for mechanical work or repair.
• Monitor, inspect, and maintain assigned Servo and Fiber Optic group systems for proper operation.
• Recommends changes required to achieve functional requirements of the units.
• Follows project schedules set by supervisors.
• Demonstrates proactive compliance with all NRAO policies and procedures.
• May have other duties as assigned.

In addition to the items listed above, the Technical Specialist will also

• Discuss the design, layout, assembly, testing and troubleshooting procedures and problems with engineers and technical staff.
• Devise design details and functional requirements of assemblies.
• Fabricate, assembles, and tests prototype or production units.
• Sets up standard test apparatus or devises test equipment to conduct functional, operational, environmental, and life tests to evaluate the performance and reliability of prototype or production units.
• Locate and order parts and equipment, locate and evaluate substitute parts for functional equivalence of any obsolete/non-obtainable components or parts.
• Write technical reports and develops charts, graphs, and schematics to describe and illustrate an assembly's operating characteristics, malfunctions, deviations from design specifications, and functional limitations.

Work Environment

Work takes place in an electronics shop environment; employees are also required to work outdoors, in inclement weather and at heights when accessing an antenna. Candidate must be able to lift and carry 50 pounds and work at heights of 150 feet. Candidate must be able to work at a bench, either sitting or standing, for sustained periods. Visual acuity (corrected is acceptable) and manual dexterity is necessary to perform work. Work is done at the VLA site, which is approximate