Scientific data analyst

Position Description:

The NRAO enables forefront research into the Universe at radio wavelengths. In partnership with the scientific community, we provide world leading telescopes, instrumentation and expertise. Additionally, we promote astronomy to foster a more scientifically literate society and train the next generation of scientists and engineers.

The Atacama Large Millimeter/Submillimeter Array (ALMA) is the most powerful (sub)millimeter interferometer ever constructed and is transforming our understanding of topics ranging from the formation of nearby protoplanetary disks to the earliest epochs of galaxy formation.

The National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) is seeking an enthusiastic Scientific Data Analyst (I).

The primary goal of the Scientific Data Analyst (I) will be to provide assistance to observatory users by reducing data and assessing data quality, operating a data reduction pipeline, answering questions in the online helpdesk system, assisting with observing script preparation, testing observatory software, and contributing to the data delivery process.

The position is assigned to the North American ALMA Science Center (NAASC). The North American ALMA Science Center is located at NRAO headquarters in Charlottesville, VA (on the grounds of the University of Virginia). The Data Analyst will work closely with members of observatory support groups and data services groups at all NRAO locations.

The location for the position will be based at in Charlottesville, VA USA. A domestic remote work arrangement is not applicable for this position but limited teleworking might be possible.

The successful applicant should have at least a basic understanding of astronomy. Knowledge of radio and/or millimeter astronomy and experience with radio telescope observations is desired but not required. Training will be provided for all job duties.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assists Observatory users by reducing data and assessing data quality, operating a data reduction pipeline, and testing ALMA software and data products.
• Responds, refers, and follows up on routine data analyst requests submitted through the helpdesk.
• Assists visiting scientists in data reduction, data analysis, and archive access, through one-on-one support (helpdesk and face-to-face visits) and group training activities (schools and tutorials).
• Maintains a working knowledge of all relevant user software for NRAO instruments, including those used for proposal submission, observation preparation, and especially post-processing data reduction.
• Ensures appropriate and timely responses to helpdesk user queries by responding to a query, forwarding to another expert as appropriate, following up on open queries, etc.
• Assists in the generation and editing of CASA Guides and helpdesk knowledgebase articles.
• Participates in scientific testing of software and procedures for user support and/or telescope operations.
• Maintains relevant web page content and other documentation to ensure information for users stays current.
• Pro-active compliance with Observatory and government safety policies and procedures in own work area is expected.
• Other duties as assigned.

Work Environment: Work is typically performed in an office environment. Will be required to sit for long periods of time and operate a personal computer.

Who You Are:

• You have a bachelor's degree in Astronomy, Physics or related field.
• You have the following competencies:
  • Strong communication skills (written and verbal)
  • Ability to remain calm while supporting demanding clients
  • Analytical thinker
  • Strong attention to detail
  • Able to learn new systems quickly
  • Ability to use computers with M/S Windows, MacOS, and Linux operating systems

• Although not required, you may have experience in:
  • Python experience or development in another programming language.
  • Experience working with large data sets, potentially using machine learning techniques.
  • Experience working with radio astronomical data products and/or operating ratio telescopes is preferred.
  • Experience with CASA data reduction software is desirable. Experience with other data reduction software (e.g. AIPS, MIRIAD) is welcomed.

Additional Requirement:

Observatory employees must be authorized to work in the United States. The Observatory presently cannot sponsor H-1B Visas for this position.

Total Rewards:

Associated Universities Inc. (AUI) offers a comprehensive total rewards package for this position, subject to eligibility requirements. We are committed to serving our employees and their families with an extensive and competitive compensation and benefits package that supports our employees' overall well-being and career growth.

Compensation:

AUI strives to attract and retain dedicated, highly qualified, competent, and motivated employees by offering competitive compensation and recognition for performance.

Factors which may affect starting pay and level may include education, experience, skills, competencies, other qualifications of the successful candidate, as well as internal equity and labor market conditions.

Benefits:

AUI's benefits package addresses the needs of employees and their families with most benefits beginning on the first day of employment. AUI provides excellent paid time off (13 holidays, annual accrual of up to 24 vacation days and 15 sick days, additional time off for doctor/dentist visits, and 8 weeks of paid parental leave). Medical, dental and vision plans are effective on the first day of employment. AUI's retirement benefit contributes an amount equal to 10 percent of a qualified participant's base pay with no required employee contribution; we also offer an optional supplemental, tax-deferred plan for employee retirement contributions.

Application Instructions:

Select the "Apply Now" button. Please be prepared to upload your current resume and a cover letter of interest and suitability for the position.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement:

Associated Universities, Inc. (AUI) is an equal opportunity employer. To view our complete statement, please visit If you require reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process, you may submit your request by sending an email to [email protected]. PM20