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Caltech is a world-renowned science and engineering institute that marshals some of the world's brightest minds and most innovative tools to address fundamental scientific questions. We thrive on finding and cultivating talented people who are passionate about what they do. Join us and be a part of the diverse Caltech community.
Job SummaryThe Space Radiation Laboratory (SRL) at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) is soliciting applications for a Calibration and Operations Scientist to support the ongoing science operations of the Nuclear Spectroscopic Telescope Array (NuSTAR) mission (www.nustar.caltech.edu). NuSTAR is a NASA small explorer astrophysics space telescope, launched in 2012 into low Earth orbit, that is providing the astronomical community with a unique capability to investigate the high energy X-ray Universe.
The position is based in the NuSTAR Science Operations Center (SOC) located on the Caltech campus in Pasadena, CA. The SOC is responsible for the calibration, planning and safe use of telescope time to perform observations of astronomical sources of X-rays, often in coordination with other space- and ground-based observatories. We are looking for a new team member to participate in data analysis of calibration observations and the generation of regular updates to the NuSTAR calibration files used by the community for scientific data reduction, and in the generation of observing plans and data quality assurance analysis.
Essential Job DutiesAs the NuSTAR Calibration and Operations Scientist, the successful candidate will report to the SOC Manager at Caltech and the Lead NuSTAR Calibration Scientist and duties will include:
- Supporting the calibration team in the planning of calibration observations and reduction of calibration data.
- Working with the calibration team to update instrument response files.
- Working with the SOC Manager to generate weekly observing schedules.
- Performing data quality assurance analysis of guest investigator observations.
- Participating in regular science and mission operations meetings.
- Perform other related duties as assigned.
As a member of the NuSTAR team, the successful candidate will be expected to participate in all science operations activities as required.
Basic Qualifications- PhD in astronomy, physics, or closely related field.
- Must have relevant experience.
- Good written and interpersonal communication skills, with an emphasis on the ability to share ideas in a collaborative setting.
- Experience with NuSTAR data analysis.
- Experience with instrument or observatory calibration.
- Experience with scientific software development (i.e., python and astropy-based tools as well as HEASoft tools).
- Resume/CV
- Cover Letter
$66,600 - $103,300 Per Year
The salary of the finalist(s) selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, internal equity, experience, education, specialty and training.
As one of the largest employers in Pasadena, CA, Caltech is committed to providing comprehensive benefits to eligible employees and their eligible dependents. Our benefits package includes competitive compensation, health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement savings plans, generous paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick time, parental leave, bereavement, etc.), tuition reimbursement, and more. Non-benefit eligible employees will have access to some benefits such as onsite counseling and sick time. Learn more about our and .
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Caltech is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.
To read more Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) go to eeoc_self_print_poster.pdf.
If you would like to request an accommodation in completing this application, interviewing, or otherwise participating in the employee selection process, please direct your inquiries to Caltech Recruiting at .
Caltech is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer and will, whenever possible, actively recruit and include for employment members of underrepresented minority groups, females, disabled veterans, protected veterans, and otherwise qualified persons with disabilities. Caltech will hire, transfer, and promote based on the qualifications of the individual to ensure equal consideration and fair treatment of all.