National Radio Astronomy Observatory
Title: Engineer Group Lead, Very Large Array (88)
Location: NRAO Very Large Array, Magdalena, New Mexico, United States of America
Requisition Number: 88
Job Family: Mechanical Engineer
Pay Type: Salary
Required Education: ENG

POSITION SUMMARY

The National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) is an exciting and prestigious research facility that plays a vital role in the study of the universe. The Observatory operates a variety of radio telescopes that span the globe, including the famous Very Large Array (VLA) in New Mexico, the Green Bank Telescope in West Virginia, and the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA) in Chile. These telescopes are among the most advanced in the world, allowing astronomers to explore the universe in unprecedented detail.
The NRAO announces an opening for an Engineering Lead that will provide managerial and operational support for the Very Large Array (VLA) engineering group. The Engineering Lead has broad overview responsibility for the VLA site, executes a maintenance program for repairs, routine preventative maintenance procedures and to identify and track patterns of failure. Takes a leadership role in establishing and guiding safe procedures, recognizing and correcting unsafe practices, enforcing the use of PPE, reporting incidents/accidents, establishing and maintaining a JSA program and complying with the NRAO safety plan.
Provides engineering support to the VLA, Next Generation Very Large Array (ngVLA), and Very Long Baseline Array (VLBA). Responsible for the overall management, coordination, scheduling, budgeting, training and supervision of an engineering team. Provides technical guidance to the antenna mechanics, painting, electrical and electronic equipment, HVAC, computer hardware and software, automotive mechanics, railroad maintenance, plumbing, carpentry and facilities maintenance.
The position is based at the VLA radio telescope site, 50 miles west of Socorro, NM. Socorro is a small, historical town in the Rio Grande Valley, 75 miles south of Albuquerque.

COMPETENCY SUMMARY

Must possess capabilities of responsible engineering leadership. Must be able to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing. Must be proficient with Microsoft Office programs and engineering management software tools. A working knowledge of 3D modeling CAD is required. Must possess a valid driver’s license.

The following skills and experience are not required but are desirable.

• Hands-on engineer with experience working on a variety of different systems to include electrical, plumbing, concrete, welding, hydraulics, engines, motors and transmissions.
• Machined parts design and manufacture.
• Able to research and study components and systems to become competent in their maintenance, repair and design.
• Able to work on old existing designs and create new designs for production.
• FEA experience.
• Experience leading a team, working, and making decisions in the field.

Physical Demands
Engineer will be required to stand and sit, and perform fine hand manipulation. Must work near moving mechanical parts and/or with electrical equipment. Occasionally required to climb or balance, and stoop, kneel, and crouch. May occasionally work at high altitudes, and in high, precarious places and in outside weather conditions, and may be exposed to chemicals, or the risk of electrical shock. Occasional travel to other Observatory sites is required and will include VLBA site visits.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Must possess a valid driver’s license as the engineer may be required to drive Observatory vehicles.

The essential duties and responsibilities will include but are not limited to:

• Responsible for the overall management, coordination, scheduling, budgeting, training and supervision of the VLA mechanical engineering group, machine shop and electrical engineer.
• Regularly travel to VLBA sites and leads teams to make major repairs and improvements.
• Responsible for organizing the approach to solving complex and unique engineering problems.
• Responsible for engineering analysis, design, and execution of major projects and systems. Makes decisions and determinations in design, procurement, manufacture, erection, testing, and some degree of initial operation.
• Uses computer assisted engineering and design software and equipment to design equipment, components, systems or structures for radio telescopes and related systems. Modifies existing software and hardware to add new features and improvements, or correct original design problems. These software applications include; AutoCad Inventor, Autodesk Vault, JIRA, Confluence and FIIX.
• Directs other engineering and technical personnel in the fabrication and testing of equipment, and determines methods, procedures, and conditions for testing. Ensures manufacturing, construction, installation, and operational testing conform to functional specifications and requirements.
• Works with engineers, technical specialists and scientists to identify and solve problems. Determines repair and maintenance needs. Coordinates and directs operation, maintenance, and repair of equipment, systems, and structures.
• Makes recommendations for procedures, equipment purchases, and other improvements.
• Supervise other Engineers, Technical Specialists, Technicians, cooperative education students and/or summer students including hiring, training, planning, assigning, and directing work, addressing complaints, and resolving problems.
• Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the Observatory’s policies and applicable law.
• Proactive compliance with NRAO and government safety policies and procedures in own work area is expected.
• Other duties as assigned.