Job Details

Lead Skywatcher

Position Number: 6320727
Location: Boulder, CO
Position Type: Science - Astronomy and Astrophysics

Lead Skywatcher

Requisition Number: 65407
Location: Boulder Colorado
Employment Type: Research Faculty
Schedule: Part Time
Posting Close Date: 26-Jun-2025
Date Posted:

Job Summary

The Vision, Autonomy, and Decision Research (VADeR) lab is looking for motivated student researchers to take night-time images from our observatory located on CU east campus. The position will entail remotely operating the observatory dome, equipment, and sensors to take data on predetermined space objects. Observing will typically take place between the hours of 9pm-12pm or 2am-5am as weather permits. The desired candidate has a basic STEM background and should be comfortable using remote computing resources. The position does not require an aerospace or astrophysics major.
CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

Who We Are

We are the Colorado Center for Astrodynamics Research (CCAR) within the Smead Aerospace Engineering Sciences department.

What Your Key Responsibilities Will Be

The Lead Skywatcher/Telescope Hourly duties include organizing the Skywatcher's team shifts, training new team members on proper procedures, and working with lab staff to discuss improvements for the observatory.

What We Can Offer

A 30% FTE appointment with a salary of $17,500.00.

Benefits

The University of Colorado offers excellent benefits, including medical, dental, retirement, paid time off, tuition benefit and ECO Pass. The University of Colorado Boulder is one of the largest employers in Boulder County and offers an inspiring higher education environment. Learn more about the University of Colorado Boulder.

Be Statements

Be inspired. Be pioneering. Be Boulder.

What We Require

Bachelor's degree, experience leading a team, and telescope/observatory experience.

What You Will Need

Familiarity with Python computer programming language, experience testing and troubleshooting hardware, and the ability to install drivers and software. Candidates should have earned a grade of B' or better in ASTR 3510.

Special Instructions

To apply, please submit the following materials:

A current resume.
A cover letter that describes how your background and experience align with this position.

Please apply by June 26, 2025 for consideration. Note: Application materials will not be accepted via email. For consideration, applications must be submitted through CU Boulder Jobs.
In compliance with the Colorado Job Application Fairness Act, in any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information such as age, date of birth, or dates of school attendance or graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.

To apply, visit https://jobs.colorado.edu/jobs/JobDetail/Lead-Skywatcher/65407