A Bachelor's degree in physics, astronomy, computer science, engineering or closely related field is required; a Masters is preferred, particularly if it included observing experience.

The Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA), is a consortium of over 40 US institutions and four international affiliates that operates world-class astronomical observatories. AURA's role is to establish, nurture, and promote public observatories and facilities that advance innovative astronomical research. AURA is responsible for managing the operations of the NSF's National Optical-Infrared Astronomy Research Laboratory, the National Solar Observatory, and the construction of the Vera C. Rubin Observatory and the Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope under cooperative agreements with the National Science Foundation and operations of the Space Telescope Science Institute under contracts with NASA.

A Science Operations Specialist (SOS) position is available at Gemini South (La Serena, Chile). An SOS is a member of the Science Operations team and performs a number of essential duties in the Observatory's operation. The tasks fall in four main areas: (1) Telescope operation, (2) Queue observing, (3) Daytime quality assessment, instrument calibration and software testing and (4) Project work: specialized work in line with observatory goals and mission; assigned by management. This position does not include personal research.

The Gemini South telescope is largely operated from the base facility in La Serena, but occasionally duties may take place at the summit of Cerro Pachón, at an altitude of about 2700m. La Serena is a popular seaside town with a population of about 200,000, has a temperate climate, and a substantial international astronomical community.

The SOS core job duties include the following:

• Operates the telescope, instruments and computer systems during night-time and day-time science and engineering use.
• Performs queue observing and assists visiting and staff scientists and engineers in their use of telescope, instruments and computer systems.
• Evaluates the quality of scientific data and provides operational, technical and archival support for data handling.
• Works independently on special projects aligned with Observatory goals.
• Is responsible for the safety of the personnel, telescope and instruments while working at night.

• Must be willing to work weekends and holidays as needed. Schedule is subject to change and varies by person within the group based on their responsibilities.
• Must be prepared to work night shifts.
• Must be prepared to be responsible for the safety of people and equipment while working at night.
• Must possess organizational and communication skills as well as the ability to learn quickly. Must be fluent in English, while command of the Spanish language is an advantage.
• Must be reliable, dependable, and flexible - excellent attendance and commitment to work scheduled shifts is necessary.
• Must be a self-learner and self-starter; requires above-average initiative.
• Requires outstanding judgment and ability to communicate firmly when issues of safety of personnel or the telescope are apparent.
• Ability to work productively in a multinational team.
• A good working knowledge of PyRAF/IRAF, Python, and the Unix/Linux operating system is preferred.
• Requires a valid driver's license, clean driving record and the ability to drive 4WD vehicles.