Instrument Specialist

Full time Regular Employment at Canada France Hawaii Telescope

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Summary

Canada France Hawaii Telescope Corporation (CFHT) operates a world-class 3.6-meter telescope at the summit of Maunakea in Hawaii. With state-of-the-art instruments working in the visible and NIR wavelength bands, CFHT consistently ranks among the top astronomical facilities in the world in terms of science impact.

We are looking for a skilled and motivated Instrument Specialist to join our summit operations team. In this role, you will support the operation, maintenance, and upgrade of our suite of instruments and observatory systems that enable nightly observations year-round.

This position is ideal for someone who combines excellent logical and troubleshooting skills with technical curiosity and a team-first attitude. If you are driven to understand how things work, eager to tackle technical challenges, and committed to contributing to a collaborative environment, we want to hear from you.

We value and welcome individuals from all backgrounds and identities, including those underrepresented in STEM. Training and mentorship are available for candidates with strong core skills and a desire to grow.

Requirements

Primary Duties:

• Prepare and verify the readiness of instruments as needed,
• Respond to real-time technical issues during science operations,
• Troubleshoot and repair electronic and optomechanical observatory systems,
• Perform preventive and corrective maintenance,
• Maintain clear, detailed records of activities on our documentation and issue ticketing systems (Confluence/JIRA).

Minimum Qualifications:

• Associate's Degree or certification in a relevant technical field,
• Two years of hands-on technical experience,
• Good written and verbal communication skills, and the discipline to produce clear and consistent documentation,
• Ability to pass a periodic high-altitude physical to work at 4200-meter altitude.

Additional Information

Remote Work Policy: Work for this position takes place full-time at the observatory located on the Maunakea summit. It does not qualify for remote work. Specific tasks for remote work will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

CFHT is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace that fosters collaborative scientific discovery and innovation. In support of this commitment, CFHT does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factors.

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