Research Assistant I

Position Title:                  Research Assistant

Reports to:                       Science and Engineering Operations Manager, HCRO

FLSA Status:                   Full time, Non-exempt 

Location:                         Hatcreek, CA.  This is not a hybrid positon.

Note:  A cover letter is required, along with a resume (attachment) in addition, to completing the on-line application.   Applicantions  received without a cover letter will not be considered.

POSITION SUMMARY

The SETI Institute is seeking a Full Time Research Assistant to become a member of the Allen Telescope Array (ATA) team at the Hat Creek Radio Observatory. The incumbent will conduct radio astronomy research using the ATA with a focus on instrumentation development and telescope maintenance. The ATA is currently undergoing an upgrade program which increases the capabilities of the instrument. As part of the upgrades the successful candidate will be tasked with designing and building prototype receiver and digital signal processing systems, as well as assisting in the full buildout and commissioning effort of the team.

Most of the work will be performed at the Hat Creek Radio Observatory in Hat Creek, California. On-site accommodation at the observatory is a possibility.

Salary range: $37k–$78/year.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Design and document new telescope parts, such as wire harness assemblies, component mounting assemblies and instrument enclosures.
• Design and verify analog signal components for the ATA signal path, such as amplifiers, attenuators and RF/IF conversion components.
• Develop and implement protocols for feed installation and testing.
• Mechanical and electrical/electronic assembly of digital signal processing equipment, such as analog-digital converters, FPGA-based signal processing components and generic HPC server hardware.
• Support the operation of the telescope, i.e. debugging antenna control systems and integrated software systems.
• Conduct observations using the interferometric radio facilities and execute data quality assurance procedures.

 QUALIFICATIONS:

• Completion of a master’s degree or bachelor’s degree program in Physics, Engineering or a related field.
• Experience with electrical and mechanical assemblies.
• Experience with design tools, like Inventor, Eagle, Altium, and HFSS highly desirable.
• Experience with software development in one or more of Python, MATLAB, C/C or Java.
• Experience using and/or developing software defined radio systems, including GNU Radio.
• Commitment to open, transparent, and reproducible science.
• Must be a team player and work in close collaboration with the team members at the observatory.

 PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

 Reach or work above shoulders and use tools.

• Lift, carry, push and pull objects that weight up to 25 lbs.
• Occasionally work outside in hot weather conditions.
• Constantly perform computer-based tasks, or work in laboratory environment.

Click here to apply:  https://www.seti.org/jobs/research-assistant-i

 Salary and Benefits:

  The SETI Institute offers competitive benefits, including Medical/Dental/Vision insurance

• Diversity and Equity:
  The SETI Institute is an Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply, including women, people of color, LGBTQ individuals, and people with disabilities.