Electronics Technician

The Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy, Inc. (AURA) is seeking an Electronics Technician to join our Electrical/Electronics Engineering (EE) group. This is a unique opportunity to work in an international, collaborative environment and participate in a wide variety of projects.

• Maintain and repair telescope systems, ensuring optimal performance and safety.
• Assemble and troubleshoot electronic components, including wiring, cables, PC boards, and connectors.
• Disassemble and assemble non-electronic equipment, adhering to safety protocols.
• Perform daily checks of telescope systems for night operations, identifying and addressing any issues promptly.
• Support laser maintenance and troubleshooting, ensuring accurate and efficient operation.
• Identify and order proper components for telescope and instrument systems, collaborating with the team to ensure seamless integration.
• Maintain labs at summit and the Hilo base facility, ensuring a safe and efficient working environment.
• Maintain test equipment, keeping certifications current and ensuring compliance with industry standards.
• Create and modify documentation of telescope and instrument systems, providing clear and concise information for the team.
• Inventory test equipment and 2-way radios, ensuring accurate tracking and maintenance.
• Participate in team efforts to provide support for summit operations, including physical labor, snow clearing, and housekeeping.
• Comply with applicable safety standards, ensuring the safety of operations in areas under purview, and correct or report any unsafe conditions or practices.
• Demonstrate a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, promoting a positive and respectful work environment.
• Ensure compliance with government award terms and conditions assigned to this position or subordinates of this position.

• Assist engineers and technicians with tasks as needed, providing support and expertise to the team.
• Create safety documentation, such as Job Hazard Analysis, LOTO, and work procedures, as necessary.
• Assist in creating and revising Preventive Maintenance Procedures, ensuring accurate and up-to-date information.
• Cross-train individuals when necessary, promoting knowledge sharing and skill development within the team.
• Perform facility safety walk-through inspections, identifying and addressing any safety concerns or issues.
• Other duties as assigned, supporting the team and contributing to the success of the organization.

• A.S. Degree in Electronics Technology or equivalent.
• Ability to repair electronic devices, circuit boards, and small connectors.
• Ability to multitask and execute work as directed by the supervisor.
• Knowledge of Windows and PC-based computer programs, as well as electronics and electrical circuits.
• Able to utilize electronic test equipment, ensuring accurate and efficient operation.
• Able to safely operate manlifts, overhead cranes, and forklifts, adhering to safety protocols.
• Able to work on projects or assignments with minimal supervision, demonstrating independence and self-motivation.
• Must be able to work effectively in an interdisciplinary and diverse international environment as a committed team member.
• Must possess practical knowledge of mechanical skills and be able to use basic hand tools and precision measuring devices correctly.
• Must be a good problem solver, able to analyze and resolve complex issues.
• Must demonstrate dexterity, safety, and attention to detail, ensuring accurate and efficient work.
• Full English verbal, reading, and writing fluency.
• Must be able to work effectively at heights and at high altitude.
• Must possess a valid driver's license and a clean driving record.

• Bachelor's Degree in Electronics Technology or equivalent.
• College-level courses in optics and laser technology.
• Professional experience working as an electronics technician, especially experience working for an astronomy organization.

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; and talk or hear.
• The employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; reach with hands and arms; and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
• The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.
• Must possess sufficient mobility, strength, or dexterity in both arms and hands and both legs to a) reach upward, sideways, downward to work with paper files; b) sufficient mobility and dexterity to utilize computer systems, fax machines, copiers, and other office machines.
• Must possess – 1) ability to read and understand instructions, drawings, safety guides, and other written materials necessary to perform job; 2) sufficient visual capacity to perform the applicable functions without assistance of visual aids other than eye contacts or eye glasses; 3) sufficient spoken aural capacity to hear and understand instructions, warning bells, fire alarms, or shouted instructions without assistance of auditory aids other than a hearing aid; and 4) ability to impart information orally so that others understand and can respond appropriately.
• Must possess sufficient mobility, strength, or dexterity in both arms and hands and both legs to a) grasp, push, pull, turn, or otherwise manipulate tools and mechanisms; b) push, shove, pull, or otherwise safely and efficiently manipulate tools or mechanisms; c) lift, hold, maneuver, objects of 50 lbs or more; d) maintain balance while performing work; e) remove parts, systems, tools of 50 lbs or more.

AURA is a consortium of 47 US institutions and 3 international affiliates that operates world-class astronomical observatories for the National Science Foundation and NASA. AURA's role is to establish, nurture, and promote public observatories and facilities that advance innovative astronomical research.

AURA offers an excellent benefits package, including paid time off and retirement plan contributions, competitive salary commensurate with experience, and a very attractive work environment.