ING STAFF OBSERVER

Ref: LSR02_21                                          

Closing date: 12:00 WET 22-02-2021

As part of its preparation for the WEAVE commissioning and scientific operations, the ING invites applications for the new post of Staff Observer. The Staff Observer will join the Astronomy group and be primarily devoted to carrying out observations with the WEAVE instrument on the WHT.

This opening, available immediately, represents an opportunity for individuals with university-level astronomy training, with or without a PhD degree, who have a strong interest and experience in observational astronomy, and who are seeking involvement in the commissioning and scientific operation of a major facility instrument.

MAIN PURPOSE OF THE POST

• To carry out night-time observations of the WEAVE queue.
• To assist with day-time astronomy-group tasks.
• To contribute to astronomical research activities at the observatory.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The main responsibilities of this post are:

• To carry out night-time observations with WEAVE, for the WEAVE survey, for open-time programmes and during technical time, following the agreed observing plans and protocols (~ 50% of the total staff hours available for this post).
• To assist in activities of the astronomy group such as instrument quality-control, support of other instruments, assisting with planning the next night, scripting and public relations (30%).
• To contribute to the research impact of ING and/or the WEAVE surveys, ideally through WEAVE-related projects. Examples: providing data-analysis support to individual WEAVE science teams; or carrying out a research project with another instrument, but in support of a specific WEAVE survey. (20%).

A Job Description is available on demand.

SHORTLISTING CRITERIA

Qualifications (essential):

• University degree in astronomy (minimum); masters’ degree in astronomy (preferred).

Experience (essential):

• Observational experience in a professional observatory (minimum: one year).

Technical competencies:

• (Essential) Astronomical optical spectroscopy with digital detectors, including data processing.
• (Essential) Linux operating system; the python scripting language; digital collaboration tools, e.g., Confluence.
• (Valued) Astronomical optics. Software for astronomical applications.

Valued transversal competencies:

• Working as part of a team; communicating effectively with day and night crews.
• Personal work: planning and organisation.
• Flexibility, eg for changes from night shifts to day-time tasks.
• Good command of English and Spanish.
• Interest in WEAVE-based research.

APPLICATIONS

To apply, please send a completed application form in English, available here, by email to recruit@ing.iac.es . The closing date for applications is February 22nd at 12:00h (WET). Interviews are expected to take place during April first week on Zoom.

Information related to the terms and conditions of this post is available from ING’s Head of Administration, Juanjo Herrera: juanjo@ing.iac.es  

Further information on this position is available from the Head of Astronomy, Chris Benn: crb@ing.iac.es

ING is fully committed to equality of opportunity in the workplace.

Applications must be sent to recruit@ing.iac.es

CONTRACTUAL INFORMATION

This is a permanent, full-time position regulated by the bargaining agreement between the ING and its local staff.

Candidates should be available to take up the position by April 1st 2021 if possible.

The appointment will be at Grade C. The annual salary for a full time Staff Observer is €35,827.44, which includes a 16% bonus for working at night, weekends and public holidays.