Hybrid Observatory Technician (0077684 & 0077987T) at University of Hawaii, HI

About the Department

Title: Observatory Technician

Position Number: 0077684 & 0077987T

Hiring Unit: Institute for Astronomy

Location: Pukalani, Hawai’i

Date Posted: August 6, 2025

Closing Date: August 27, 2025

Band: B

Salary : salary schedules and placement information

Full Time/Part Time: Full-time

Month: 11-month

Temporary/Permanent: Permanent & Temporary

Duties and Responsibilities 

1.*Provides technical mechanical support to Institute for Astronomy (IFA) Maui operation base facility (Maikalani, Advanced Technology Research Center, ATRC) in Pukalani, support shops, storage, and lodging facilities in Kula, and telescope facilities, shops, and operation support facility on Haleakala summit.

2.*Uses experience, independent judgment and problem solving skills in the field to troubleshoot, adjust and modify precision observatory facility equipment and instrumentation.

3.*Maintains, trouble shoots, repairs, overhauls and operates the mechanical and electro-mechanical equipment of the observatories. This includes but not limited to observatory dome rotation mechanism, dome shutter chains and rollers, vacuum and glycol pumps, compressors, A/C units, hydraulics and pneumatics, gearboxes, gear drives, dome rollers, cryogenic equipment, and the HVAC system.

4.*Operate and perform routine maintenance of backup power generator.

5.*Assists IfA scientists, engineers, and observatory manager in the planning and installation of new instruments and telescopes.

6.*Organize and plan, when appropriate, the installation of instrument support equipment such as optical tables, air scrubbers for dust control, and recirculating cooling system for temperature control.

7.*Advises other staff (Observatory Maintenance Technician and Scientific Instrument Technician) on mechanical aspects of repair and maintenance and ensure compliance with industry standard.

8.*Fabricates a variety of low-tolerance mechanical parts, installs and tests them. Parts include pipe fittings, spacers, washes, conduits, and mounting brackets needed for repairs of the dome, shutter, and instruments.

9.*Fabricates a variety of mounting structures and parts for small outdoor instruments.

10.Assists IT manager and electronics technician in the cabling of outdoor instruments.

11.Applies the theories and principles of mechanical engineering to modify, develop or adjust machinery and equipment under the direction of engineering staff, scientists or Scientific Instrument Technician.

12.Drives project vehicles to high altitude summit facilities.

13.Works varied hours and non-standard work schedule as needed.

14.Other duties as assigned.

* Denotes essential functions.

Minimum Qualifications 

1.Possession of an Associate or Vocational degree in Mechanical or Electrical maintenance and 4 year(s) of progressively responsible professional experience with responsibilities for maintenance and repair of mechanical, electrical heating, air-conditioning, hydraulic and pneumatic systems; or any equivalent combination of education and/or professional work experience which provides the required education, knowledge, skills and abilities as indicated.

2.Considerable working knowledge of principles, practices and techniques in the area of electrical or mechanical systems as demonstrated by the broad knowledge of the full range of pertinent standard and evolving concepts, principles and methodologies.

3.Considerable working knowledge and understanding of applicable federal and state laws, rules, regulations and theories and systems associated with mechanical or electrical maintenance, repairs, safety, and hazardous materials.

4.Demonstrated ability to resolve wide ranging complex problems through the use of creative reasoning and logic to accurately determine the cause of the problems and the resolution of the problems in an effective, innovative, and timely manner.

5.Demonstrated ability to interpret and present information and ideas clearly and accurately in writing, verbally and by preparation of reports and other materials.

6.Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with internal and external organizations, groups, team leaders and members, and individuals.

7.Demonstrated ability to operate a personal computer and apply word processing software.

8.If applicable, for supervisory work, demonstrated ability to lead subordinates, manage work priorities and projects, and manage employee relations.

9.Must be able to work at an elevation of 10,000 feet.

10.Must be able to lift 50 pounds independently or with assistance.

11.Must be able to work a non-standard work schedule.

12.Ability to travel independent to various geographical locations in a timely manner. Requirement fulfilled by a valid Hawaii Driver's License (class 3), comparable driver's license or use of means of transportation which meets position needs.

Desirable Qualifications 

1.Experience using a metal lathe, milling machine, and electric and gas welders.

2.Experience operating a backhoe, forklift, and crane.

To Apply:

Click on the “Apply” button on the top right corner of the screen and attach the required documents.  Applicants must submit (1) cover letter indicating how you satisfy the minimum and desirable qualifications, (2) resume, (3) names and contact information of 3 professional references and (4) official transcripts.  Copies of transcripts are acceptable, but official transcripts will be required at the time of hire.  Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Note: If you have not applied for a position before using NeoGov, you will need to create an account.

Inquiries: Garry Nitta, [email protected]

Position Duties

The University of Hawai'i is an Equal Opportunity Institution and is committed to a policy of nondiscrimination in employment, including on the basis of veteran and disability status.  For more information, visit:  https://www.hawaii.edu/offices/eeo/policies/

Employment is contingent on satisfying employment eligibility verification requirements of the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986; reference checks of previous employers; and for certain positions, criminal history record checks.

In accordance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, annual campus crime statistics for the University of Hawai'i may be viewed at: https://www.hawaii.edu/titleix/help/campus-security/, or a paper copy may be obtained upon request from the respective UH Campus Security or Administrative Services Office.

In accordance with Article 10 of the unit 08 collective bargaining agreement, bargaining unit members receive priority consideration for APT job vacancies. As a result, external or non BU 08 applicants may not be considered for some APT vacancies. BU 08 members with re-employment rights or priority status are responsible for informing the hiring unit of their status.

Accommodation Request:  The University of Hawai'i complies with the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).  Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process should contact the EEO coordinator directly.  Determination on requests for reasonable accommodation will be made on a case-by-case basis.  For further information, please refer to the following link: https://www.hawaii.edu/offices/eeo/accommodation-request/