Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy
Research Services · 1,001 to 5,000 employees
The Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (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. In addition, AURA is deeply committed to public and educational outreach. AURA carries out its role through its astronomical facilities.
AURA is responsible for the successful management and operation of its three centers: NSF’s National Optical-Infrared Astronomy Research Laboratory (NOIRLab); the National Solar Observatory (NSO); and the Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI).
The intern will support the design, prototyping, and development of data acquisition, optical, and mechanical systems for the next-generation solar observation network.
They will also document evaluation processes and present progress updates during internal project meetings.
What you need
Candidates must hold a B.A. or B.S. degree from an accredited college or university.
Applicants should possess basic knowledge of physical sciences, optics, engineering, and computer systems.
Education: a bachelor's degree
Key skills
Solar observationData acquisitionOptical systemsMechanical systemsComputer systemsPrototypingTechnical documentationPresentation skillsProject managementPhysical sciencesEngineeringTeam collaborationTechnical communication
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The Intern will work closely with the Next Generation GONG (ngGONG) scientists,
engineers and administrators to support the design, prototyping, development,
and documentation of systems that will be crucial components of the design of
the new solar observation network. This is intended to be a hands-on learning
experience for college degree holders in a unique setting, contributing directly
to solar research and technology development and preparing them for future
educational or professional development steps in a related career.
The Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA) is a consortium
of over 40 US institutions and four international affiliates that operates
world-class astronomical observatories. AURA's role is to establish, nurture,
and promote public observatories and facilities that advance innovative
astronomical research. AURA's National Solar Observatory (NSO) operates the
Global Oscillations Network Group (GONG), which has operated since 1995 and
provides background synoptic observations permitting investigations of the solar
interior and inputs into space weather forecasts.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
* Support the design, prototyping, evaluation, and development of data
acquisition, optical, computer, and/or mechanical systems for a future
network of solar observations.
* Document evaluation processes and outcomes.
* Make presentations at internal meetings about progress and conclusions on
assigned tasks.
* Participate in project meetings to learn the broader scope of the project and
focus areas.
* Participate, virtually and/or in person, in professional development
offerings, including classes or mentoring sessions.
* Summer/Fall semester internship: 40 hours/week.
* All AURA employees are responsible for the proper management and control of
all AURA property within their work area, whether assigned to them or someone
else. This responsibility includes reporting any known missing, stolen, or
non-working property in their work area to their supervisor or the AURA
Property Officer.
* Responsible for ensuring compliance with government award terms and
conditions assigned to this position or subordinates of this position.
OTHER FUNCTIONS
* Other duties as assigned.
REQUIREMENTS
* Must have a B.A. or B.S. degree from an accredited college or university.
* Basic knowledge of physical sciences, optics, engineering, and computer
systems.
* Basic computer skills.
* Ability to work effectively in a team and communicate complex technical
concepts clearly.
* Availability to work on-site (NSO Headquarters, Boulder, Colorado) if needed
during the internship.
Physical Demands:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met
by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to
perform the essential functions.
* Must be able to remain in a stationary position at least 50% of the time.
* Occasional need to move about inside the office environment to access files,
office tools, attendance in a meeting room, etc.
* Constantly operates a computer and other office productivity tools that
require fine motor skills, such as a calculator, copy machine, computer
printer, etc.
* May occasionally need to position self to maintain computer and related
tools.
* Seldomly needed to move objects up to 10 pounds.
* Constant communication with other individuals. Must be able to discern and
exchange information as appropriate to the situation.
* Constant need to distinguish, discern, and identify a variety of objects and
fine details with accuracy.
* Occasional work at high elevation summit sites may be required (summit
elevations range from 6,800 feet to 14,000 feet)
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of
work being performed by individuals assigned to this position. They are not
intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities and skills
required by personnel so classified. This Institute promotes Equal Employment
Opportunity workplace that includes reasonable accommodations to otherwise
qualified, disabled applicants and employees.
Work Environment:
This position operates in a professional office environment and routinely
utilizes standard office equipment, including computers, phones, and copiers.
The work environment is generally quiet and may involve working in close
proximity to others, depending on the needs of the specific function.
Salary Range: $19.94 – $22.97 per hour. The final salary will depend on skills,
qualifications and experience.
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. Details on benefits can be found at Benefits by
Location - Aura Human Resources
[https://hr.aura-astronomy.org/benefits-by-location/]
Preference will be given to qualified internal candidates and qualified Native
Americans living on or near the Tohono O'odham reservation.
This position will remain open until it is filled. Please submit a cover letter
and a CV or resume, PDF files preferred. Please name any attachments with the
following format: LastName DocName.
Individuals needing assistance with the employment process can request
assistance here [https://aurahr.atlassian.net/servicedesk/customer/portal/34].