Observatory Systems Technical Officer

Observatory Systems Technical Officer

• Provide technical expertise for astronomical instrumentation at the Zadko Observatory
• Level 7, part-time (0.6 FTE) appointment on a fixed term basis for three years
• Base salary range: $95,737 – $106,223 p.a. (pro rata) plus 17% superannuation
• Location: Gingin

The University of Western Australia (UWA) is ranked amongst the top 100 universities in the world and a member of the prestigious Australian Group of Eight research-intensive universities.  With an enviable research track record, vibrant campus and working environments, supported by the freedom to innovate and inspire, there is no better time to join Western Australia’s top University. 

About the team

The Zadko Observatory is as optical astronomical observatory based at the UWA Gingin Gravity Precinct, 80km north of Perth in the Yeal nature reserve. The 4.3-hectare precinct is home to several facilities supportive of Physics and Astrophysics research and is surrounded by natural woodland with high species diversity. The Gingin Gravity Precinct is recognised as one of UWA’s principal strategic Research Infrastructure Centres.

The Zadko Observatory plays a niche role in space surveillance as it is located at a longitude not covered by any other metre class research facilities providing an important resource for time-critical projects. The Zadko Observatory which houses the Zadko Telescope also hosts other instruments for several international space agencies and is an integral part of UWA’s International Space Centre (ISC).

About the opportunity

As the Observatory Systems Technical Officer, you will work autonomously in the provision of technical support for optical instrumentation, systems upgrades, computer hardware interfaces and scheduling software. You will facilitate multidisciplinary research and provide assistance and training for users of the Zadko Observatory. Under guidance from the Gingin Gravity Precinct Operations Manager, your responsibilities will include oversight of the day-to-day operation of the Zadko Telescope and other associated instrumentation, coordination of research projects using the Zadko Observatory, maintenance and upkeep of the facility, and you will take responsibility for the quality of data produced by the facility. You will build relationships and collaborate closely with research groups in Western Australia, nationally, and internationally and promote Zadko Observatory activities to the scientific community. The role interacts with a broad range of internal and external stakeholders, including academic and industry facility users.

To be considered for this opportunity, you will demonstrate:

• Relevant tertiary degree in Astronomy, Physics, Mathematics, Computer Science, Systems Engineering, or a related technical field, or equivalent experience.
• Experience in the operation of scientific computing, computer hardware interfaces, data management and commercial astronomical software packages.
• Ability to engage with a range of stakeholders and to provide advice in the use of astronomical instrumentation.
• Excellent organisational and project management skills and demonstrated ability to set priorities to meet deadlines.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, and the ability to work effectively with remote team members and facility users.
• Knowledge of and engagement with research into space-situational awareness and/or planetary astronomy is desirable.

Special Requirements

• Field work at the Gingin Gravity Precinct is required two to three days per week, with the option of staying overnight at the onsite accommodation.
• Some afterhours work will be required to support projects and testing of equipment.
• C-class driving licence and access to a vehicle.

About your application

Full details of the position's responsibilities and the selection criteria are outlined in the position description:   Position Description [Observatory Systems Technical Officer] [517226].pdf

The content of your Resume and Cover Letter should demonstrate how you meet the selection criteria.

You may also submit an additional statement (1 page max) outlining any personal circumstances which should be considered when assessing your application. Applicants who have experienced periods of academic/professional interruption or other relevant events can include a description of achievements relative to opportunity in this statement.

Closing date: 11:55 PM AWST on Monday, 3 June 2024

To learn more about this opportunity, please contact Associate Professor David Coward - ************@uwa.edu.au or Mr John Moore **********@uwa.edu.au

This position is only open to applicants with relevant rights to work in Australia.

Application Details: Please apply online via the Apply Now button.

Our commitment to inclusion and diversity

UWA is committed to a diverse workforce and an equitable and inclusive workplace.  We celebrate difference and believe diversity is fundamental to achieving our goals as a globally recognised Top 100 educational and research institution.  We are committed to creating a safe work environment for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, women, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, the LGBTIQA+ community and people living with disability.

• We have a globally competitive, gender neutral parental leave policy with 26 weeks paid leave after 12 months service and 36 weeks after 5 years.
• We have on-campus childcare facilities for children aged 6 weeks to kindy.
• We facilitate flexible working, with part-time and job-sharing arrangements considered.
• We have an ongoing partnership with Pride in Diversity and were recently awarded a Bronze Employer status for LGBTIQA+ inclusion.
• We have Athena SWAN Bronze accreditation and actively work to improve gender equity. 

Should you have any queries relating to your application, please contact the individual named in the advertisement. Alternatively, contact the Talent team at *********@uwa.edu.au with details of your query. To enable a quick response, please include the 6-digit job reference number and a member of the team will respond to your enquiry.