Chief Engineer and Operations Officer

Full time Regular Employment at W. M. Keck Observatory

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Summary

Lead Engineering and Operations at the Frontier of Discovery Join W. M. Keck Observatory as our next Chief Engineer and Operations Officer

Are you an experienced engineering professional who thrives in dynamic, mission-driven environments? Do you bring both strategic perspective and operational insight to complex technical systems? Are you passionate about advancing science through collaboration, innovation, and stewardship?

If so, we invite you to join W. M. Keck Observatory as our Chief Engineer and Operations Officer—a critical leadership role guiding technical teams, summit operations, and engineering strategy in support of world-class astronomical discovery.

Why Choose W. M. Keck Observatory:

• Competitive compensation commensurate with experience and leadership responsibilities
• Four (4) weeks of paid vacation, in addition to generous sick leave and holidays
• Robust retirement plan with 8% employer and 4% employee contributions
• Employer-provided health insurance, offering a range of coverage options tailored to individual and family needs
• Tuition assistance for dependent children attending K–12 independent schools on Hawai‘i Island
• Comprehensive income protection benefits, including employer-paid long-term disability insurance to safeguard your financial well-being
• Be part of a mission-driven team pushing the boundaries of human knowledge

Ready to lead at the intersection of science and engineering?

Apply now and help power the discoveries that shape our understanding of the universe.

Requirements

About the Role:

As a member of the Senior Leadership Team, the Chief Engineer and Operations Officer provides both strategic and technical leadership across engineering disciplines and observatory operations. This role oversees multiple engineering teams—including electrical, mechanical, optical, operations software, systems engineering, and program management —and technical operations on the summit.

This position nurtures a culture of technical excellence, safety, and innovation while driving initiatives that align with our five-year strategic plan and long-term sustainability. The Chief Engineer and Operations Officer also leads risk management, succession planning, and infrastructure renewal to ensure sustainable operations for the future.

Key Responsibilities:

• Guide and support cross-functional technical teams in pursuit of Keck’s strategic goals
• Oversee summit operations and engineering activities with a focus on safety, sustainability, and collaboration
• Promote professional development, mentorship, and knowledge sharing
• Uphold rigorous technical standards, documentation, and configuration management
• Align priorities, people, and processes to improve performance
• Represent Keck in technical forums and build partnerships across the astronomy and engineering communities

Additional Information

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering (required); advanced degree is a plus
• At least 10 years of progressive leadership experience in a technical or operational setting
• Demonstrated experience managing operational and capital budgets in excess of $1 million
• Technical proficiency across a range of engineering disciplines, such as electrical, mechanical, optical, and software systems
• Ability to foster inclusive teams, manage risk thoughtfully, and advance shared goals
• Strong communication, collaboration, and decision-making skills
• Experience in observatory operations or similar 24/7 high-tech environments (preferred)

About W. M. Keck Observatory