The University of Texas at Austin is hiring: Telescope Operator, Hobby-Eberly Te

Telescope Operator, Hobby‑Eberly Telescope, McDonald Observatory

Join the Telescope Operator team at the University of Texas at Austin and support the Hobby‑Eberly Telescope (HET), one of the world’s largest optical telescopes.

• Location: McDonald Observatory, Ft. Davis, Texas
• Department: McDonald Observatory
• Hours: 40 per week
• FLSA Status: Exempt
• Earliest Start Date: Immediately
• Position Duration: Expected to Continue
• Working Schedule: 24/7/365 operation; nights, weekends, and holidays required; on‑call duties possible.

The Hobby‑Eberly Telescope (HET) is a 10‑meter class optical telescope primarily used for spectroscopy. It is a collaborative effort between UT Austin, Pennsylvania State University, Ludwig‑Maximilians‑Universität München, and Georg‑August‑Universität Göttingen. The HET runs continuously, requiring skilled operators to ensure safe and efficient performance.

Candidates must be authorized to work permanently in the United States without employer sponsorship.

Responsibilities

• Operate the telescope safely from sunset to sunrise, performing mirror alignment, instrument configuration, weather monitoring, and fault detection and recovery.
• Support nighttime operations by attending meetings, collaborating with staff, and maintaining accurate night reports.
• Assist daytime operations, including engineering support and review of facility changes.
• Perform additional duties as assigned to meet business needs, maintain timesheets, attend training, and support emergency response teams if residing on site.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Astronomy, Physics, Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field with at least two years of relevant experience.
• Demonstrated ability to work efficiently in small teams during time‑critical operations.
• Proficient in Linux/Unix command line and GUI environments.
• Strong manual dexterity, fine motor skills, and proficiency with hand tools.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Self‑motivated, adaptable, and able to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines.
• Sound judgment and commitment to maximizing scientific output.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in STEM and/or experience operating a ≥1‑meter telescope.
• Understanding of observational astronomical terminology.
• Experience with complex hardware and software troubleshooting.
• Linux/Unix environment experience with both command‑line and GUI interfaces.

Required Materials

• Resume/CV
• Three work references (include supervisor reference)
• Letter of interest

Working Conditions

• Operates at approximately 6,900 ft above sea level; weather extremes may occur.
• Standard computer and keyboard use; repetitive motions and manual tool use common.
• Exposure to chemicals, cryogenic liquids, electrical hazards, and climbing hazards; ability to lift up to 35 lb.
• Potential 24/7 work, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• On‑site residents also serve on the Observatory Emergency Response Team.

Driving Requirement

This position requires a class “C” driver’s license and a current three‑year driving record. Texas residents must obtain a Texas license within 30 days of becoming a resident.

Salary Range

$50,000 + depending on qualifications

Working Shift

• 24/7 operation; sunrise‑to‑sunset schedule.
• Expected response to failures outside normal hours.

Benefits

• Competitive health benefits (employee premiums covered 100%; family 50%).
• Vision, Dental, Life, and Disability insurance options.
• Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• Teacher Retirement System of Texas (defined benefit retirement plan with employer‑matching contributions).
• Additional Voluntary Retirement Programs: 403(b) and 457(b).
• Flexible spending accounts for medical and childcare expenses.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The University of Texas at Austin is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. We comply with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action. The University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, religion, or veteran status in employment, educational programs and activities, and admissions.

Employment Eligibility Verification

Hired applicants must complete the federal I‑9 form and present acceptable documents proving identity and authorization to work in the United States within three days of employment. Failure to comply may result in loss of employment.

E‑Verify

The University of Texas at Austin uses E‑Verify to check the work authorization of all new hires effective May 2015. Additional E‑Verify materials are available upon request.