VLA operations specialist

- Operate and monitor telescopes and associated equipment. - Cross-train to operate the Very Long Baseline Array (VLBA). - Troubleshoot and rectify errors and faults as they arise. - Communicate effectively with personnel operating on the array and monitor conditions, including alerting them to hazardous weather. - Initiate telescope control and prepare antennas, receivers, and other equipment for operation. - Receive observing instructions and execute observing programs, including processing incoming observe files. - Assist observers, scientists, engineers, and technicians with telescope controls and data analysis requests. - Monitor alerts on computer screens to detect potentially unsafe conditions and ensure proper system configuration. - Assess fringe amplitude readings and data flagging codes to ensure data quality. - Conduct system tests to fine-tune antenna values and verify equipment functionality after hardware upgrades. - Take necessary actions to safeguard telescope equipment. - Make personnel call-outs if equipment safety is compromised or if significant problems are detected. - Maintain detailed logs of failures, unusual conditions, significant occurrences, and equipment status. - Write maintenance reports for hardware and software issues. - Document operational procedures and assist with their maintenance. - Collect weather data for the National Weather Service. - Drive shuttles between the VLA and our facility in Socorro. - Ensure compliance with all NRAO policies and procedures. - Undertake additional duties as assigned. - Provide advanced troubleshooting support and corrective actions for higher-level responsibilities if applicable. - Perform ongoing analysis of operating tools and methods while documenting improvements. - Develop procedures and documentation for new equipment in collaboration with engineers or supervisors. - Prepare technical reports outlining operational characteristics, abnormal conditions, and limitations. - Provide input on hardware/software developments and assist in troubleshooting. - Train new operators and support scientists in basic data analysis.