AAO Job

Australian Astronomical Observatory

	Job Profile

	Position Title:	Head Of Instrumentation
	Location:	Epping, NSW
	Classification:	Executive Level 2
	Salary Range:	An attractive remuneration package will be negotiated with the successful applicant
	Tenure:	Ongoing
	Applications close:	15th October, 2010

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	Job Description
	Selection Criteria
	Employment Information Package
	Job Application Cover Sheet (pdf) Job Application Cover Sheet (word)
	Terms and Conditions of Employment
	About the AAO

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	Head Of Instrumentation The Australian Astronomical Observatory (AAO) wishes to appoint a new Head of Instrumentation (HoI). The HoI is leads the AAO’s world-renowned Instrumentation group and is responsible for managing the AAO’s development and construction of astronomical instruments for the AAO’s facilities and other telescopes around the world. The role comprises scientific leadership of the group of 25 people, oversight of the AAO’s instrumentation program, management of the various instrumentation projects carried out by the group, interaction with the AAO’s Instrument Science group (which carries out R&D on new instrumentation technologies), and strategic planning for the Observatory and its facilities. The HoI reports to the AAO Director. Applications are now sought for the position of Head of Instrumentation at the AAO. The position will be an ongoing appointment, subject to the satisfactory completion of a 6-month probationary period. A fixed relocation allowance plus other relocation expenses (including airfare to Australia) will also be paid. See www.aao.gov.au/local/www/jobs for an employment information package. All applications should be lodged electronically via jobs@aao.gov.au and should include the following supporting documents: • Curriculum vitae, including career history, education and qualifications, instrumentation track record, and awards, grants and distinctions. • Full list of publications, separated into accepted papers in refereed journals, conference proceedings, and other publications. • Contact details (including email and phone) for at least three referees; it is the applicant's responsibility to arrange for references to be sent to AAO before the deadline. The Australian Astronomical Observatory supports flexible working arrangements and is an equal opportunity employer.

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Job Description

Position Title: Head Of Instrumentation

Work Unit: Instrumentation Administration

Classification: Executive Level 2

Supervisor: Director

Job Description

Overall Responsibilities

The Head of Instrumentation (HoI) is the leader of the AAO’s Instrumentation group and is responsible for managing the AAO’s development and construction of astronomical instruments for the AAO’s facilities and other telescopes around the world. The role comprises scientific leadership of the group, oversight of the AAO’s instrumentation program, management of the various instrumentation projects carried out by the group, interaction with the AAO’s Instrument Science group (which carries out R&D on new instrumentation technologies), and strategic planning for the Observatory and its facilities.

The HoI will help shape the vision for the AAO’s instrumentation program in response to the needs of the user community and the specific opportunities afforded by the AAO’s facilities and other resources. The HoI will lead and manage the group of approximately 25 scientists, engineers, technicians and project managers and perform related tasks including staff hiring, student supervision, budget preparation, resource allocation and reporting. The HoI reports to the AAO Director.

Astronomical Instrumentation
The HoI will have an outstanding record of achievement and leadership in the development, design and delivery of astronomical instrumentation. They will have international stature in this field, and will help shape the vision for the AAO’s instrumentation program in response to the needs of the user community and the specific opportunities afforded by the AAO’s facilities and other resources. The HoI will lead the group in developing new opportunities and funding in support of the AAO’s cutting-edge instrumentation program, and ensure that the AAO maintains its world-leading reputation in this field.

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Selection Criteria

Selection Criteria

In general, the selection criteria are designed to assess the abilities of the applicant as determined by the quality of past achievements. Applicants should specifically address the selection criteria in their applications.

Essential Selection Criteria

1. PhD in astronomy, optics, engineering or related discipline.

2. Outstanding track record in the development and delivery of astronomical instrumentation.

3. Strong track record of research in astronomy and/or astronomical instrumentation technology.

4. Demonstrated capacity or potential for leadership of the AAO's Instrumentation group.

5. Strong interpersonal skills and communication skills

6. Commitment to equal employment opportunity and occupational health & safety.

Desirable Selection Criteria

1. Track record of identifying and exploiting research and funding opportunities.

2. Experience in a major national or international observatory environment.

3. Experience in research and/or project management.