Data Analysis Specialist

• Location: Hilo, Hawaii
• Deadline for Application: open until filled
• Job Code: SCI503P

We have an opening for a Data Analysis Specialist at Gemini North, in Hilo, Hawaii. The Data Analysis Specialists are part of the Gemini Science staff and provide essential operational, technical and archival support for data handling at the Observatory.  The Data Analysis Specialists monitor the flow of astronomical data from the science instruments to the science archive including configuration and operation of the on-line data processing system.  In addition, they provide both expert data checking and quality assessment for ‘queue’ data.  Familiarity with ground-based observational astronomical data is required.
Applicants must have knowledge of the Unix/Linux operating system.  A good working knowledge of IRAF, as well as experience with high-level scripting in Unix/Linux command shell and Python/Perl is preferred.  Requires excellent organizational and communication skills, as well as the ability to learn quickly.  Preference will be given to applicants familiar with a broad range of observational data and processing techniques.  Must have a bachelor’s degree in Astronomy, Physics or Computer Science and/or equivalent experience in astronomical data handling; Master’s degree is preferred.

How To Apply

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Gemini Science Fellows

• Location: Hilo, Hawaii
• Deadline for Application: 15 November, 2008
• Job Code: SCI201P

Gemini has openings for Gemini Science Fellows at Gemini North in Hilo, Hawaii. Gemini Science Fellows acquire significant training and experience in large ground-based telescope operations—becoming proficient both in state-of-the-art astronomical instrumentation and research, and in the techniques of modern, queue-based observing methods, pioneered by Gemini Observatory.

Science Fellows at Gemini are actively involved in personal research projects.  Forty percent (40%) of the Fellow’s time is available for independent astronomical research, supported by a personal research budget.  In addition, a fraction of the time available on both Gemini telescopes is reserved for successful peer-reviewed staff proposals.

Gemini North Science Fellows can expect to spend approximately 15 to 20 nights per semester executing observations on the summit of Mauna Kea utilizing any of the three or more active instruments. Fellows also support investigators in the community in preparing their observations; and employ queue planning tools to construct nightly observing plans from a large database of potential observations.   In addition, Science Fellows have the opportunity to become intimately involved in instrumentation projects, data analysis tools, or other observatory development projects, depending on their interests.  Applications are especially encouraged from individuals with interest and expertise in integral field spectroscopy in the optical as well as the near-IR.

Gemini offers an attractive and competitive salary and benefit package.  The duration of Fellow positions is three years, with a possible two-year extension. Successful Fellows can expect to have the option for continuing employment with the Observatory through promotions to tenure or parallel track positions.  The majority of the Fellow’s time is spent in Hilo, Hawaii, a town with a very diverse population of about 43,000 people, a tropical climate, and a substantial international astronomical community supporting the observatories on Mauna Kea.

Requirements: Ph.D. in astronomy, physics or related discipline.  Significant optical and/or infrared observational, data analysis and/or instrumentation experience is highly desirable. Experience/knowledge in one or more of the following areas is a plus: integral field spectroscopy in the optical and near-IR; infrared imaging and spectroscopy; optical multi-object spectroscopy; adaptive optics and high spatial resolution imaging.

Must be safety conscious; possess or be able to obtain a valid passport; willing and able to travel internationally; possess a valid driver's license with a good driving record; and be able to drive 4WD vehicles.  Applicants must be able to work nights, at the altitude of the Mauna Kea summit, 4200 m.

The Gemini Observatory is a partnership of seven countries: the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, Argentina, Brazil and Chile, conducting forefront astronomical research with 8-m optical/infrared telescopes in Hawaii and Chile.

Send resume, cover letter relating your experience and education to the duties of the position, statement of research, and a statement of Observatory support interests. Arrange to have letters from three professional references sent to application address below.  Applications will be considered as they are received and all applications received by November 15, 2008 will receive full consideration.  Starting dates are negotiable but are expected to be between April 2009 and November 2009.

For further information about the positions please contact Dr. Inger Jørgensen, Gemini-North Head of Science Operations (ijorgensen@gemini.edu) or Dr. Dennis Crabtree, Associate Director for Science Operations (dcrabtree@gemini.edu). Application materials should be submitted to gemini-jobs@gemini.edu

How To Apply

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Astronomer

• Location: La Serena, Chile
• Deadline for Application: extended to November 30, 2008
• Job Code: SCI307PW

We have an immediate opening for a tenure-track astronomer position at Gemini South in La Serena, Chile. This position requires a solid commitment to Gemini’s mission to teach humanity about the Universe and requires strong scientific leadership abilities.

The tenure-track astronomer is expected to maintain a strong scientific program with excellent productivity.  The tenure-track astronomer is additionally expected to provide scientific leadership to Gemini South science staff.  Forty percent (40%) of the tenure-track astronomer’s time is available for astronomical research.   The position includes a personal research budget as well as access to staff time on both Gemini telescopes through a peer-reviewed staff TAC.  

Gemini science staff utilize diverse, state-of-the-art astronomical research and instrumentation.  The exact support duties of the staff Astronomer will vary depending on the individual’s skills and interests, and the Observatory’s needs.  All staff are expected to become proficient in night-time observing using any of the Observatory’s current instrumentation and to support investigators in the community.  Additional support projects may include new instrument commissioning, or other Observatory development projects aimed at improving efficiency, data quality or user support.  

Gemini South is entering an exciting period with new forefront capabilities being implemented. New instrumentation coming online in the near future at Gemini South include an adaptive optics fed near-infrared coronagraphic imager (NICI), a near-IR multi-object spectrograph (Flamingos-2) and a facility laser system for multi-conjugate adaptive optics (MCAO).

The appointment is a three year renewable term, with application for tenure generally expected during the second three year term.  The position is based in La Serena, Chile, a popular beach town with a mild climate, modern amenities, and a substantial international astronomical community supporting four nearby observatories.

Requirements: Ph.D. in astronomy, physics or related discipline, and related work experience.  Substantial ground-based observing and/or instrumentation experience is highly desirable, particularly using modern facilities. Experience/knowledge in one or more of the following areas is a plus:  infrared imaging, spectroscopy or multi-object spectroscopy; adaptive optics; and high spatial resolution imaging and coronagraphy.  Research productivity will be considered, as judged by publication in astronomical peer-review journals.

Must be safety conscious; possess or be able to obtain a valid passport; willing and able to travel internationally; have a valid driver's license with good driving record, and be able to drive 4WD vehicle.  Applicants must be willing to work nights at the summit of Cerro Pachon, 2900m.

The Gemini Observatory is a partnership of seven nations: the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, Argentina, Brazil and Chile, operating state-of-the-art, ground-based 8-m optical/infrared telescopes in Hawaii and Chile.  

Send resume, cover letter relating your experience and education to the needs of the position and listing AAS Job Register number, statement of research, and statement of Observatory development and support activity interest to gemini-jobs@gemini.edu. Additionally, arrange to have letters from three professional references sent directly to gemini-jobs@gemini.edu.  Positions are available now and applications will be considered as they are received; applications received by September 30, 2008 will receive full consideration.

For further information about the positions please contact Dr. Bernadette Rodgers, Gemini-South Head of Science Operations (brodgers@gemini.edu) or Dr. Dennis Crabtree, Associate Director for Science Operations (dcrabtree@gemini.edu). Application materials should be submitted to gemini-jobs@gemini.edu or the mailing address listed at the bottom of this page.

How To Apply

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Telescope Mechanic

• Location: Cerro Pachon Summit, Chile
• Deadline for Application: open until filled
• Job Code: ENG503P

We are looking for a Telescope Mechanic to join our team. This position maintains and supports telescope equipment for the Gemini Observatory on the summit of Cerro Pachon.
Responsibilities will include:
•    Operating precision milling machines and lathes
•    Fabrication and modification of precision parts for telescope and instrumentation
•    Ordering and purchasing tools
•    Organizing and keeping the workshop tools in order
Successful candidate experience requirements are:
•    Accredited technical degree in mechanics
•    Mechanical workshop machinist experience
•    Knowledge of CNC milling machines operation
•    Manual lathe operation with digital read out
•    Ability to understand metric and American system unit as well as engineering drawings
•    Use of AutoCAD and applications cadCAM
•    Use of inventory applications is a plus
•    Self-organized, proactive, flexible, and autonomous person
•    Ability to work as part of a team
•    Safety oriented
•    Fluency in Spanish and Intermediate level written and oral English language skills 

How To Apply

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High-Level Software Engineer

• Location: Hilo, Hawaii
• Deadline for Application: open until filled
• Job Code: ENG713PW

Gemini Observatory is seeking a highly skilled and experienced software developer to become part of its High-
Level Development Group (HLDG). The High-Level Group develops tools that astronomers use to plan and
execute observations, process data, and control observatory hardware. 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.
We develop almost exclusively in Java, delivering web applications, Swing desktop applications, and
distributed backend services. We employ RMI and Jini technologies, XML, XML-RPC, and web services among
others. Our applications are built on the OSGi platform. Experience in any of these technologies is
considered a bonus, though not necessarily required for consideration. We are seeking developers with strong
object-oriented design and development skills, particularly in Java.
The job is very much development-oriented, but also includes maintenance and refactoring of an existing
code base. We work as part of a multidisciplinary engineering team, and communicate with scientists on a
daily basis to understand their requirements and translate them to working solutions. Experienced
developers are given the freedom to design software and select the most appropriate technologies for the
job.
Qualifications:
· A degree in Computer Science or equivalent experience (an advanced degree is preferred)
· At least five years of software development experience, with demonstrated problem solving skills
· Solid object-oriented design and development experience in Java
· Knowledge of design patterns
· Familiarity with developing in UNIX-like operating systems such as Linux or OS X
· Proven track-record of providing technical leadership for large-scale applications in distributed
environment
Additional Desirable Experience:
· RMI/Jini/Java Spaces
· Web services and frameworks (particularly Google Web Toolkit)
· OSGi and/or the Eclipse Rich Client Platform
· Distributed application design
· Multi-threaded and parallel computing
· Scheduling and optimization algorithms
· User interface design, particularly using Swing
Must be willing to work with a geographically distributed team. Excellent written and verbal skills in English
are required, and Spanish language skills are a bonus. Must have, or be able to obtain, a valid passport and be
willing to travel internationally, as required.

How To Apply

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Deputy Director/Head of Science

• Location: La Serena, Chile
• Deadline for Application: see below
• Job Code: SCI101PW

We are seeking a senior astronomer for the position of DEPUTY DIRECTOR/HEAD OF SCIENCE. The successful applicant will be responsible for assisting the Director of the Observatory in duties dealing with internal and external affairs.  This position has the top-level responsibility of ensuring that the scientific mission of the Observatory is fulfilled.    The position is located in La Serena, Chile and represents the Director at Gemini –South.

This position will assist the Director in the strategic and long-term planning of observatory affairs.  As Head of Science, the Deputy will advise the Director on science strategy, including monitoring observatory science productivity and impact and fostering strategic scientific use of the Gemini telescopes and instruments.  This position will advise the Director on observatory science policy and relevant scientific matters.  As Head of Science, the position will promote Gemini science results and capabilities; promote Gemini science staff research; and lead the tenure process for tenured-track science staff.

Ph.D. astronomers with the ability to communicate with a variety of Board members, oversight and advisory committee members, and users throughout the Gemini partnership are encouraged to apply.  The candidate should have several (at least 10) years experience as a research scientist; several years experience working in a leadership position in an observatory, a national laboratory environment or an equivalent organization.  The desired starting date for the position is mid-2009. The appointment is at the tenure-track, tenured level or as a senior scientist. The appointment is based in La Serena Chile.

The selected candidate will be an employee of AURA, which provides an excellent compensation and benefits package. Send current resume and research statement along with cover letter relating your experience and education to the needs of the position.  Please include the names and contact information of three individuals familiar with your work and credentials from whom a reference may be obtained.

The consideration and evaluation of candidate materials will begin September 30, 2008 and will continue until the search has concluded.
 

How To Apply

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Outreach Assistant (Part-Time)

• Location: Hilo, Hawaii
• Deadline for Application: Open until filled
• Job Code: OPS407PW

Join our international team and share our growing knowledge of the universe with all of humankind (and our community!)  Gemini Observatory is searching for a proactive team player to join our Public Information & Outreach (PIO) team.  

An Outreach Assistant position is sought to assist in bringing astronomy knowledge to our community’s, schools, students and teachers.  Responsibilities will include scheduling, logistical support and presentation of programs with a portable planetarium, FamliyAstro workshops and occasional facility tours. Additional duties will include administrative assistance and general support of Gemini’s PIO programming. Occasional weekend/evening work required.

Requirements: College degree in Astronomy or related field preferred; astronomy background preferred; excellent communication & organizational skills; proficiency in MS Excel & Word, clean, safe driving record, must be able to lift 50 lbs.

How To Apply

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Intern

• Location: Hilo, Hawaii
• Deadline for Application: open until filled
• Job Code: OPS907T

The Gemini Observatory is looking for an undergraduate student enrolled in an accredited college or technical program majoring in a Computer Science, Communications or Graphic Design or related program, to work on an internship basis. A highly-motivated high-school student interested in persueing a career in computer technology/graphic arts/photography will also be considered. The  Gemini Observatory is an international collaboration between the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Chile, Argentina and Brazil.  The Observatory is operating two telescopes, one in Hawaii and one in Chile. 

This is an exciting opportunity for a qualified individual to work at the Gemini North facility located in Hilo, Hawaii.  We are looking for someone with a strong aptitude and interest in computer technology, graphic design or photography. Your role will be to assist the PIO team in organizing and processing our digital image resources for internal and public use; and to contribute to wider activities of the group.

The internship is for a 6 month period, starting August/Sepember 2008 and will require a commitment of between 10-15 hours per week. 

How To Apply

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Safety Manager

• Location: Hilo, Hawaii
• Deadline for Application: open until filled
• Job Code: OPS307PW

Gemini Observatory is looking for a dynamic Safety Manager to continue the implementation of a world’s best practice safety and health management program which will make Gemini a leader in safety in the astronomy community. The successful candidate for this position will inspire, educate, and train all employees in physical risk reduction techniques, legal compliance and safety system development and implementation.
Reporting to the Director, the Safety Manager will oversee Safety Coordinators in Hilo and La Serena, Chile and manage external consultants and projects. Other duties include:
• Facilitating the Executive Safety Leadership Team committee
• Managing and controlling the Gemini Safety System elements
• Assisting leadership to achieve a dynamic safety culture
• Long range safety planning
• Risk reduction inspections and interventions
• Safety and health documentation development and control
• Safety and health training
• Overseeing worker’s compensation functions
• Internal and external audits and inspections
• Preparing reports for visiting committees

The successful candidate will have:
• At least 5 years experience in a safety leadership position
• The ability to lead a safety program within an scientific/industrial environment
• The ability to interface effectively with all levels of a geographically dispersed organization
• Strong influencing and follow-through skills
• Bachelor’s degree in Safety Management or Engineering discipline, a CSP is desirable although not essential
• Creativity, flexibility and excellent decision making skills
• Superior presentation and meeting facilitation skills
• Ability to work at 14,000 foot altitude
• Valid driver’s license, clean driving record and ability to drive a 4WD vehicle

How To Apply

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