Job posting has expired

Deputy Superintendent, Palomar Observatory

California Institute of Technology
vision insurance, parental leave, paid time off, sick time, tuition reimbursement, company vehicle
United States, California, Palomar Mountain
Apr 13, 2025
Caltech is a world-renowned science and engineering institute that marshals some of the world's brightest minds and most innovative tools to address fundamental scientific questions. We thrive on finding and cultivating talented people who are passionate about what they do. Join us and be a part of the diverse Caltech community. Job Summary The position is full-time, benefited, and is located at Palomar Observatory. The position reports to the observatory superintendent.The deputy superintendent will be second-in-command in the observatory management organization structure. All supervisors, leads, engineers, and other staff will report directly to the deputy. The deputy will manage the daily operations of the facility and function as superintendent when the superintendent is unavailable.The deputy will also participate directly in all observatory engineering projects, including hands-on troubleshooting of critical observatory systems, upgrades to critical systems, and long-term engineering planning and development. Essential Job Duties Operational Oversight: ensure smooth day-to-day operations, supervise teams, and coordinate activities across work groups , which requires driving personal or company vehicle at times. (30%) Engineering Development: participate in all engineering activities: hands-on troubleshooting and/or upgrades to critical observatory systems, as well as long-term strategic planning and development. (30%) Strategic Support: contribute to strategic planning, decision-making, and policy development to achieve observatory goals. (10%) Team Management: lead and mentor staff, resolve conflicts, and ensure adherence to Caltech rules and guidelines. (10%) Project Monitoring: oversee project execution, analyze performance metrics, and prepare detailed reports for COO management. (10%) Resource Allocation: contribute to budget development, allocate resources efficiently, and maintain accurate financial records.(5%) Interdepartmental Coordination: collaborate with external departments (COO, JPL, etc) to maintain communication channels. (5%) Basic Qualifications Bachelor's degree in a technical, science or engineering discipline, or equivalent experience. 5 or more years of astronomical observatory experience in technical and/or engineering maintenance, general observatory support, and/or night operations. 3 or more years of astronomical observatory management experience. Demonstrated abilities in team leadership and personnel management. Lifting/carrying of 25 pounds of tools/supplies. Preferred Qualifications 10 years experience in technical and/or engineering maintenance, general observatory support, and/or night operations. Knowledgeable of a wide range of optical, software, and telescope engineering materials, processes, and practices, astronomical. Required Documents Resume Hiring Range $130,000 - $192,500 Per Year The salary of the finalist(s) selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, internal equity, experience, education, specialty and training. As one of the largest employers in Pasadena, CA, Caltech is committed to providing comprehensive benefits to eligible employees and their eligible dependents. Our benefits package includes competitive compensation, health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement savings plans, generous paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick time, parental leave, bereavement, etc.), tuition reimbursement, and more. Non-benefit eligible employees will have access to some benefits such as onsite counseling and sick time. Learn more about our benefits and staff perks. EEO Statement We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Caltech is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor. To read more Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) go to eeoc_self_print_poster.pdf. Disability Accommodations If you would like to request an accommodation in completing this application, interviewing, or otherwise participating in the employee selection process, please direct your inquiries to Caltech Recruiting at employment@caltech.edu.