Cryogenics Technician I - IV / Technical Specialist I-II

Position Description:

Position Summary

NRAO is seeking a qualified individual who will assist with fabrication, installation, maintenance, and repair of cryogenic (very low temperature) refrigeration equipment and vacuum systems assigned to the Cryogenics group. The group is responsible for the day to day operation of these systems on the Jansky Very Large Array (JVLA) and the Very Long Baseline Array (VLBA). In-house training and some external training will be provided.

In addition to competitive pay, NRAO provides excellent paid time off benefits (vacation and sick leave). Medical, dental and vision plans are effective the first day of employment. NRAO’s retirement benefit contributes an amount equal to 10 percent of a qualified participant’s base pay and no contribution is required of the employee; we also offer an optional supplemental, tax-deferred plan for employee retirement contributions.

The position will be based at the Very Large Array site, 50 miles west of Socorro, NM.

Job Duties Summary

As part of an active team working both at the bench and on antennas, Cryo Technical Specialists and Technician perform a variety of construction, test, maintenance, inspection, assembly, operation and data collection functions on compressors, vacuum lines, and cryogenic equipment. Technical Specialists are expected to devise work processes and ideas and may also lead Technicians. Work performed is generally reviewed by a supervisor although a candidate that becomes a Technician III or IV must be able to complete assigned tasks with minimal supervision

Routine duties include:

• Use of standard test equipment, such as digital multimeters or gauges, for inspection, adjustment, and/or replacement of defective system components on compressors or vacuum lines.
•              Use of hand tools for mechanical work or repair.

•              Proactive compliance with all NRAO policies and procedures.
•              Other duties may be assigned.

The candidate may be asked to respond to emergency call-outs during inclement weather, late night and or early morning hours.

Competency Summary

Candidate must be self-motivated, possess the ability to communicate with others, must be meticulous and able to perform repetitive tasks for extended periods of time. The individual must be able to work safely with hand and power tools. Candidate must possess a valid driver's license and must be able to operate a motorized vehicle in a safe manner. The ability to read and interpret policy and safety manuals is required as is the ability to write routine reports and correspondence. The candidate must be able to do simple mathematical calculations.

Work Environment

Work typically takes place in an electronics shop, but employees are also frequently required to work outdoors and at heights when accessing an antenna. Candidate must be able to lift and carry 50 pounds and work at heights of 80ft, in inclement weather. Must be able to work at bench either sitting or standing for sustained periods. Visual acuity (corrected is acceptable) and manual dexterity is necessary to perform work.

Position Requirements:

Minimum Education

High school diploma or GED. An Associate’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience required for higher level positions.

Minimum Experience

No prior experience required for the entry-level Technician position. Progressive levels of experience are required for the other positions, including 5 years of closely related experience to qualify as a Technical Specialist II.

Preferred Education

An Associate Degree in Engineering Technology for Technician positions, a Bachelor’s degree in a related field for the Technical Specialist position.

Preferred Experience

Two or more years related experience and/or training and knowledge in vacuum, electrical, fabrication, stainless TIG welding, cryogenics, and cryogenic associated equipment such as Helium Mass Spectrometers and vacuum equipment overhaul. Candidate should possess some skills in the operations and safety of lab equipment such as lathes, drill press and belt sanders. Preference will be given to candidate with fabrication, plumbing, computer skills, vacuum leak detection experience, cryogenic helium closed cycle systems, TIG and MIG welding and related activities.

Safety Sensitive

The selected candidate must successfully pass a post-offer, pre-employment/pre-placement drug screen.  Failure to pass the Screen will disqualify the candidate from employment consideration for a period of six months from the date of the results.  After an offer of employment, the candidate will need to successfully pass an employment physical.

Application Instructions:

Click the “Apply” button below.  You will need to be prepared to upload your current CV/Resume and a letter of application describing interest and suitability for the position.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement:

AUI is an equal opportunity employer.  Women, Minorities, Vietnam-Era Veterans, Disabled Veterans, Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities are encouraged to apply.  To view our complete statement, please visit http://jobs.jobvite.com/nrao/jobs.  If you require reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process due to a disability, you may submit your request by sending an email to [email protected]. PM20

The NRAO is an equal opportunity employer (M/F/D/V)