Description
Title: Research Support Staff
Position Number: 0097022T
Hiring Unit: Institute for Astronomy
Location: Pukalani, HI
Date Posted: April 1, 2026
Closing Date: April 16, 2026
Band: A
Salary : salary schedules and placement information
Full Time/Part Time: Full-time
Month: 11-month
Temporary/Permanent: Temporary
Duties and Responsibilities
1.Responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the TLRS-4 Laser Ranging System at the Haleakala High Altitude Observatory Site.
2.*Operates computers that control telescopes, clocks, lasers, timers and other electronic and optical equipment during Satellite Laser Ranging tracking missions. Operates any other equipment necessary to successfully complete the tracking mission.
3.*Monitors and analyzes the preliminary results of tracking missions.
4.*Prepares for operations a variety of electro-optical devices, lasers, and electronic equipment.
5.*Ensures the safe operation of the laser when performing internal tests or transmitting externally while tracking satellites or doing system calibrations.
6.Performs minor repairs and adjustments to the equipment when necessary.
7.Maintains operations logs and prepares daily operations reports for submission to NASA Space Geodesy Project Office.
8.May provide aircraft watch during tracking missions by visually scanning the sky and maintain remote control over laser transmission to ensure the laser does not illuminate passing aircraft.
9.*Drives project vehicles between the Advanced Technology Research Center (ATRC) located in Pukalani and the Haleakala Observatories.
10.Other duties as assigned
*Denotes Essential Functions
Minimum Qualifications
1.Possession of an Associate Degree in Computer Technology, Laser Technology, Electronics Technology with 2 year(s) of experience or Bachelor's Degree in Electronics Engineering, Information Technology, Laser Technology or related field and 0 year(s) of progressively responsible professional experience with responsibilities for operations of lasers, optics, or telescopes; or any equivalent combination of education and/or professional work experience which provides the required education, knowledge, skills and abilities as indicated.
2.Functional knowledge of principles, practices and techniques in the area of laser ranging facility demonstrated by knowledge, understanding and ability to apply concepts, terminology.
3.Functional knowledge and understanding of principles, theories, federal and state laws, rules, regulations and systems associated with lasers and electronics.
4.Demonstrated ability to recognize problems, identify possible causes and resolve the full range problems that may commonly occur in the area of laser ranging.
5.Demonstrated ability to understand oral and written documentation, write reports and procedures, and communicate effectively in a variety of situations.
6.Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with internal and external organizations, groups, team members and individuals.
7.Demonstrated ability to operate a personal computer and apply word processing software.
8.Must be able to work at an elevation of 10,000 feet.
9.Must be able to work a non-standard work schedule.
10.Ability to travel independently to various geographical locations in a timely manner. Requirement fulfilled by a valid Hawaii Driver's License (class3), comparable driver's license or use of means of transportation which meets position needs.
Desirable Qualifications
1.Experience in the operations and maintenance of an Astronomical or Geophysical Observatory.
2.Knowledge of Satellite or Lunar Laser Ranging techniques and practices.
To Apply:
Click on the “Apply” button on the top right corner of the screen to complete an application and attached required documents. Applicant must submit the following:
If requested transcripts are unobtainable by closing date, please indicate so where transcripts are required as an attachment. You will have a grace period of 7 days from the closing date (April 16, 2026) to email copies of your transcripts to emoss@hawaii.edu. Official transcripts will be required if selected to fill the position.
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: David Lonborg, dlonborg@hawaii.edu
EEO, Clery Act, ADA
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/