Telescope Operations Analyst

As a Telescope Operations Analyst at Qualis, you will support the GBM operations team by producing command loads for the spacecraft, generating insightful reports for the principal investigator, and ensuring the data's accuracy through quality control measures. Your role also includes monitoring the instrument's operational status, proactively communicating issues, and assisting in the testing of command loads with a flight simulator.

To qualify for the Telescope Operations Analyst role at Qualis, you should have a Bachelor's degree or higher in an Engineering or STEM field, alongside 10 to 18 years of experience in a technical area. Proficiency in Python programming, utilizing Linux scripts, and strong organizational skills are essential. A self-starter mentality and ability to work well within a team are also crucial for this position.

The work environment for a Telescope Operations Analyst at Qualis is primarily office-based, emphasizing clear and effective communication with co-workers and management. The role requires working collaboratively, attending meetings, and sitting for extended periods during analysis and reporting tasks. There may be minimal travel within the USA, but the majority of your time will be spent engaging with internal teams and working on the mission's technical aspects.

Prospective Telescope Operations Analysts should demonstrate strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to recognize data trends that diverge from the norm. Skills in Python programming and experience with Linux scripts are also critical. Additionally, the ability to re-prioritize tasks quickly and manage multiple deliverables concurrently is necessary for success in this fast-paced role at Qualis.

What truly sets the Telescope Operations Analyst role at Qualis apart is the unique opportunity to directly support NASA's groundbreaking Fermi Gamma-ray Space Telescope mission. You will collaborate with world-renowned scientists and engage in meaningful work that contributes to our understanding of celestial events. Furthermore, Qualis emphasizes a positive work culture, teamwork, and professional development.

When answering this question, consider discussing any direct experience you have with spacecraft systems, previous roles in space missions, or any relevant projects you have worked on. Emphasize your understanding of the technical aspects and how they apply to the Telescope Operations Analyst position at Qualis.

You should demonstrate your familiarity with Python by discussing specific projects or tasks where you used it. Give examples of how you've applied Python to solve problems or streamline processes, particularly if they relate to data analysis or spacecraft operations.

Share your approach to task prioritization, emphasizing your ability to assess deadlines, impacts, and the importance of each task. It’s beneficial to mention tools or techniques you use, like to-do lists, project management software, or specific methodologies such as Agile or Scrum that help you stay organized.

Outline a specific example demonstrating your ability to break down complex concepts into understandable terms. Focus on how you successfully conveyed the information and the positive outcome that resulted from effective communication.

Discuss your systematic approach to quality control, emphasizing specific techniques you employ to validate data, detect errors, and correct them. Mention any tools or practices you have utilized in previous roles to maintain high data integrity and accuracy.

Explain your documentation practices, emphasizing the importance of clear, concise records. Discuss tools you use for documentation and any processes to ensure that your records are accurate and accessible. Highlight how this contributes to operational transparency and accountability.

Describe specific techniques you utilize for managing stress, such as time management, effective communication with colleagues, or taking breaks to maintain focus. Provide examples demonstrating how you have maintained performance under pressure in past roles.

Share a story focusing on your ability to collaborate and work effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds. Highlight any roles where teamwork was critical to success, and describe how you adapted to different working styles or contributed to a positive team dynamic.

Discuss any experience you have with flight simulators, whether through formal training or self-study. Mention specific instances where you successfully tested command loads, how you approached the simulations, and what insights you gained from that experience.

Provide a personal insight into your passion for space science, perhaps mentioning specific events or experiences that ignited your interest. Speak to how this motivation drives your desire to contribute meaningfully to missions like Fermi through the Telescope Operations Analyst role at Qualis.