Naztronomy

DVO is hiring an Observatory operator. If you know anyone who may be interested, please forward the job details and ask them to apply by emailing info@deathvalleyobservatories.com.

I have a vested interest in this because this person will have to deal with one of my telescopes!

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Job Opening: Observatory Technical Operator

Location: Amargosa Valley, Nevada
Company: Death Valley Observatories (DVO)

Death Valley Observatories is seeking a responsible, resourceful individual to join our team and assist with the operation and maintenance of our astronomical facilities in Amargosa Valley, Nevada.

The observatory is located in a rural and remote area. For this reason, we are looking for someone who understands and is comfortable with the nature of the position: spending several consecutive days on site, working independently to solve problems, and collaborating closely with a small team.

DVO can provide an equipped RV as accommodation during working days. Candidates may also use their own RV if they do not live near the observatory.

It is important to note that this is an on-site position in a remote location. This is not a work-from-home position.

Preferred Knowledge and Experience

The following qualifications will be highly valued:

Basic knowledge of mechanics and general maintenance.

Experience using hand tools and power tools.

Basic welding skills.

Ability to diagnose and troubleshoot technical problems.

Knowledge of astronomy or astrophotography.

Experience with telescope mounts, telescopes, astronomical cameras, and related accessories.

Familiarity with software and platforms such as N.I.N.A., ASIAIR, or other astronomical automation systems.

Basic computer, networking, and remote-control system skills.

Ability to communicate in both English and Spanish.

Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.

Legal authorization to work in the United States.

The Profile We Are Looking For

We especially value:

Responsibility and punctuality.

Initiative and a willingness to learn.

Ability to work independently.

Good judgment when dealing with unexpected situations.

Strong commitment to safety and the proper handling of high-value equipment.

Willingness to work as part of a team.

Good communication skills and a cooperative attitude.

Flexibility to adapt to different tasks and schedules.

What DVO Offers

Excellent employment conditions.

Flexibility in organizing workdays and schedules.

Accommodation at the observatory during multi-day stays.

Training in the operation of astronomical equipment and observatory facilities.

A unique working environment at a professional observatory under some of the best skies in the United States.

Excellent opportunities to learn, develop new skills, and grow within DVO.

Selection Process

The selection process will consist of three stages:

Email evaluation: Please send us the most complete résumé you can provide. Include any experience, technical knowledge, personal projects, hobbies, or skills that you believe may be relevant to the position, even if they were not acquired through formal employment. During this stage, we may request additional information.

Virtual interview: Selected candidates will participate in a video interview with the owners of Death Valley Observatories.

In-person interview: Finalists will be invited to visit our facilities in Amargosa Valley and participate in an in-person interview.

How to Apply

Please send your résumé to info@deathvalleyobservatories.com and include a brief introduction telling us:

Where you currently live.

Your availability to remain at the observatory for several consecutive days.

Whether you would require accommodation in our RV, would use your own RV, or would commute daily.

Your technical, mechanical, computer, or astronomy-related experience.

Your level of English and Spanish.

Why you are interested in working at Death Valley Observatories.

Death Valley Observatories is an equal opportunity employer. Hiring decisions are based on each candidate's experience, skills, qualifications, and suitability for the needs of the position.

1 day ago | [YT] | 10

Naztronomy

Will be showing off some bits of the ArcBlue C42 later tonight in a live stream. What questions do you have?

6 days ago | [YT] | 49

Naztronomy

If you haven't watched my video on the Draco, check it out below. There's only about 10 hours left for the presale price. If you're planning to order one now, I'd appreciate if you use my referral link: bit.ly/dwarflab_naz (always appreciated, never required).

The video served as a way for me to think about what's important for me. I don't plan on preordering one myself and I won't mind paying the extra $100 later on for a good scope at a remote observatory if everything works out. I'm not holding my breath for a review unit because I haven't worked with Dwarflab in that capacity before launch in the past (I got the D3 many months after release and the Mini almost a year after release).

1 week ago | [YT] | 4

Naztronomy

Normally when things go on sale, it's exciting. But the original S30 just went on sale for $299 and also removed from the B&H website which could mean that they're going to discontinue it. If anyone wants to grab one, here's my affiliate link to Agena: bit.ly/4gJPpqF

I really like this one because I loved showing it off at star parties. It was cheap enough that people were able to get into this hobby by spending very little. I've helped a bunch of people at star parties order this (I probably should have had my affiliate link in a QR code somewhere 😂).

I'm speculating and I hope I am wrong.

2 weeks ago | [YT] | 27

Naztronomy

The Dwarf Draco is out for preorder! If you're considering getting one and would like to support my channel at no cost to you, consider using my referral link: bit.ly/dwarflab_naz

And if you haven't yet entered the giveaway for the the Dwarf Mini, there's less than 3 days left! I'll be live streaming the picking of the winner.

2 weeks ago | [YT] | 43

Naztronomy

New Supernova SN 2026aaiv, Type Ia in NGC 7331. This is a fresh image taken about 10 minutes before the upload from ‪@Death_Valley_Observatories‬

3 weeks ago | [YT] | 135

Naztronomy

I will NOT contact the winner of the Dwarf Mini via a comment. This is why I collect email addresses. Someone has been impersonating me telling people they won. If you see this, report the user. Sorry for any inconvenience.

3 weeks ago | [YT] | 7

Naztronomy

Astronaut cake my wonderful wife made for me!

3 weeks ago | [YT] | 116

Naztronomy

You'll want to see this on Astrobin because the Dynamic range and resolution is much better than what I can post here: app.astrobin.com/i/hcrhor

I'm really impressed with the ‪@dwarflabofficial‬ Dwarf Mini. Details on how this was put together on astrobin.

Did you enter for a chance to win your Dwarf Mini yet?

4 weeks ago | [YT] | 58

Naztronomy

Another small milestone on this channel! A huge thanks to everyone who has helped me get here.

I'll be posting a video on the upcoming lunar eclipse in a couple of days. That video will start a giveaway of a brand new Dwarf Mini thanks to ‪@dwarflabofficial‬ so stay tuned for that!

1 month ago | [YT] | 84