Electronics Group Supervisor

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Job Summary

Under general direction from the deputy site superintendent, this position directs and manages the daily operation of the Palomar Observatory electronics group, consisting of one physical plant electrician, and 3 to 4 electronic technicians. This position participates in the observatory's engineering activities, including the planning, design, integration, and documentation of critical observatory control systems. This position contributes to scientific instrumentation diagnosis and repair. In addition to supervising, this position also assists with electronic group tasks, such as telescope installs, planned and unplanned group tasks, and preventative maintenance. This position will also coordinate observatory safety policy, including planning meetings, documentation, and safety training. This position has the authority to make observatory management decisions in the absence of the superintendent and deputy superintendent.

Essential Job Duties

• Provides direct supervision and guidance to all electronic group personnel (consisting of 5 employees) to ensure tasks are completed timely and accurately. Schedules and coordinates electronic group projects and activities including instrument setups, preventative maintenance tasks, observatory site-wide electrical upgrades, and critical observatory systems upgrades.
• Must be able to drive a vehicle to travel and transport components to various locations at the observatory.
• Provides training and technical expertise and guidance to electrical group staff in the performance of operational tasks.
• Participates in all observatory engineering activities, including, but not limited to, diagnosis and repair of scientific instrumentation and upgrades to observatory network systems and telescope/dome controls.
• Coordinate observatory safety policy. Plan safety meetings, document safety procedures, and stay abreast of observatory safety rules.
• Contribute to the observatory's drinking water team as a state-certified drinking water distributor. Contribute to the modernization and upgrades of this system under state rules and regulations.
• Collaborates with observatory management and other site supervisors on short and long-range strategic planning; establishes priorities for general electrical maintenance, repairs, and improvements.
• Documents and reviews policies and procedures; may provide input and recommendations for procedural improvements and revisions.
• Conducts and/or provides input on employee performance and training evaluations, hiring decisions, and progressive disciplinary matters.
• Participates in the design review of electrical and network system upgrades and/or additions.
• As supervisor participates in the emergency on-call rotation with management and responds in person or by phone to emergencies and problems as needed.

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience.
• At least 7 years of related work experience, including 3 years in research and/or telescope control systems and scientific instrumentation.
• Some experience leading, mentoring, or supervising staff.
• Must have a valid California driver's license and maintain it throughout employment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous project management and/or lead experience preferred.
• Previous experience in observatory operation is preferred.

Required Documents

• Resume