Universidad Andrés Bello (UNAB) and Carnegie Science have signed an agreement for UNAB to operate an astronomy Research, Training and Outreach Station (The Station) at Las Campanas Observatory (LCO), property of Carnegie Science.
The Institute of Astrophysics at UNAB (IA-UNAB) invites you to apply for the position of Telescope and Instrument Operator (TIO), who will operate this Station remotely from La Serena with occasional visits to the Station.
IA-UNAB astronomers and researchers seek to carry out high-impact research in the areas of planetary sciences, stellar astrophysics, galactic, extragalactic and cosmology, among others. Being an Institute, IA-UNAB will also seek to contribute to the formation of human capital with international standards, teaching undergraduate and graduate courses, and generating multidisciplinary collaboration around Astronomy.
Job Description
The TIO will be responsible for conducting the installation, automation and commissioning of The Station to be operating by December 31, 2025, at the observatory. The role may involve working closely with remote teams and local staff from LCO.
After commissioning The Station, the TIO will be responsible for the safe and efficient operation of The Station under automation mode from LCO offices at La Serena, “El Pino”, to be on call for troubleshooting and hire, conduct and supervise maintenance duties at The Station.
In addition to operational duties, the TIO is expected to perform basic troubleshooting, report these events as they take place, make critical decisions regarding the start or cessation of operations in response to adverse weather conditions or other hazards. The TIO will also contribute to the development of documentation and operational procedures.
The TIO will act as supporting outreach officer for LCO outreach activities, he/she will spare working hours for this purpose, although flexibility is required as outreach activities vary on scope, public and location.
Education required
Astronomer/astrophysicist, physicist, civil engineer or technical degree in the area and/or equivalent experience in telescope operations for an astronomical observatory or similar scientific environment.
Skills required
· Experience with construction and technical inspection of telescopes and astronomical instrumentation.
·Experience operating telescopes hardware and software systems, as well as astronomical instrumentation and software.
· Computer expertise in Linux or Mac OSx environments, including python coding.
· Ability to communicate and cooperate in a team environment and to speak and write effectively, including technical reports and protocol documents.
· Ability to carry out astronomy outreach activities.
· Fluency in written and spoken English.
· Valid driver's license.
· Ability to work at 2,300 m.
· Residence in La Serena, IV region (mandatory).
Application Instructions
Interested parties please send curricular background (CV), mentioning desired gross income.
Email address for applications as well as inquiries about the job: j.pullenurza@uandresbello.edu
Applicants are encouraged to apply by October 25, 2025, when application review will begin. However, the position will remain open until filled. Please include three names for references. Only selected candidates who meet our requirements will be contacted.