Job Description
Position Description:
The National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) is a prestigious research and development organization that plays a vital role in the study of the universe. Associated Universities, Inc. (AUI) is a nonprofit organization that manages and operates the NRAO under a cooperative agreement with the National Science Foundation. The Observatory is a hub for technological and scientific collaboration, operating state-of-the-art radio telescope facilities for use by the international scientific community. The Observatory has been instrumental in the study of black holes, galaxies, and the early universe.
At NRAO, we are seeking two Scientists, Open Rank (Assistant, Associate, or Scientist) who will actively contribute to the Science Operations of the VLA and VLBA. The appointees will be based in Socorro, NM. Opportunities for partial telework agreements exist.
What You Will be Doing:
The appointment will be on the NRAO Scientist track, with 25% discretionary research time and 75% functional responsibilities. For functional work, the main responsibilities will be to contribute to the VLA and VLBA telescope and user support groups. Staff scientists are expected to be versatile and flexible in their science and functional work to adapt to new challenges and opportunities as the Observatory and the astronomical landscape evolve. Example duties consist of, but are not limited to:
• Maintain an active independent research program which makes significant use of Observatory facilities.
• Support active and engaged research to push the telescopes' capabilities, building on their own research and the needs of the broader astronomical community.
• Contribute to the overall Observatory mission and work within a collaborative environment that promotes motivation, leadership and team building, in both scientific and functional areas.
• Assist with and participate in scientific community outreach activities, public outreach and education activities and in broader impact activities.
• Perform calibration and testing of existing Observatory instruments. Track and characterize instrument performance and work with software and hardware engineers, and maintenance groups to identify and solve problems.
• Support the Observatory users in relevant areas.
• Aid in the design, development, and testing for future telescopes and/or telescope capability, including writing requirements, project oversight, testing, and/or commissioning of the instrument.
• Contribute to the design, development, testing, and documentation of software.
• Other duties as assigned.
Work Environment
Work is performed in a research and development environment. May occasionally be required to work outdoors. May occasionally work at high altitudes, and in high, precarious places and in various weather conditions.
Who You Are:
Education
• a Ph.D. in astronomy, physics, or related field
Experience
• At least 1 year of post-doctoral experience working in radio astronomy, geodesy, or a closely related field.
Preferred Qualifications
• Working knowledge of radio and/or millimeter wavelength astronomy.
• Experience with observatory science operations.
• Established record of independent research
Skills and Competencies
• Must be able to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to clearly convey technical information to software developers, engineers, scientists, technicians, and others.
• Ability to interact with others in a positive and respectful manner.
• Familiarity with scientific computing/observatory software/radio astronomy technology.
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:
Compensation
The starting salary rate of this position is between $85,000-$138,000 per year. Factors which may affect starting pay within this range may include; education, experience, skills, competencies, other qualifications of the successful candidate, as well as internal equity and labor market conditions.
Benefits:
Associated Universities, Inc (AUI) offers a comprehensive benefits package addressing the needs of employees and their families with most benefits beginning on the first day of employment, subject to eligibility requirements. AUI provides:
• Excellent paid time off (13 holidays, annual accrual of up to 24 vacation days)
• 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.
• Click Total Rewards for more information.
Application Instructions:
For consideration, select the “Apply” button. Please prepare a single PDF document consisting of the following items:
• Cover letter stating why you are interested in this position – the letter should describe how the you match the position and qualifications summarized above (no more than 2 pages)
• Curriculum vitae including publications list
• Summary of past research (1 page)
• Future research plan describing specifically synergies with NRAO facilities (2 pages)
• Summary of past technical, observational, and management experience relevant to this position (1 page)
• The names and contact information for three individuals familiar with your technical, scientific, and management abilities. Candidates selected for an interview must be prepared to submit three letters of recommendation. Instructions for letter submission will be provided at the time of request.
The PDF file is to be uploaded with the “Additional Documents” feature at the applicant portal. The deadline for receipt of complete applications is October, 5, 2026. Please direct inquiries to careers@nrao.edu.
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement:
AUI is an equal opportunity employer. To view our complete statement, please visit https://public.nrao.edu/careers/. If you require reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process, you may submit your request by sending an email to resumes@nrao.edu. PM20
