Refrigeration and Automation Control Technician

Description

Position Summary: We are seeking a Refrigeration and Automation Control Technician to ensure the operational continuity of critical infrastructure systems supporting astronomical projects. Key Highlights: 1. Contribute to the safe and efficient operation of critical infrastructure. 2. Support world-class astronomical projects. 3. Multicultural and collaborative work environment. At **NOIRLab Chile**, part of **AURA** (***Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy)***, we seek a **Refrigeration and Automation Control Technician** to join the Facilities Operations team and contribute to the safe and efficient operation of critical infrastructure supporting world-class astronomical projects. The incumbent will be responsible for ensuring the operational continuity of refrigeration, HVAC, exhaust, automation, and control systems at **AURA/NOIRLab** facilities. This includes planning and executing preventive and corrective maintenance activities, diagnosing and repairing faults, installing and commissioning new systems, ensuring compliance with safety and environmental standards, and providing technical support both at the La Serena facilities and at the Cerro Tololo and Cerro Pachón observatories—thereby contributing to the reliability and availability of critical infrastructure. **Primary Responsibilities** * Install, perform preventive and corrective maintenance on refrigeration, HVAC, exhaust systems, and associated equipment. * Diagnose, repair, and weld refrigeration systems, including charging and recovering refrigerants in accordance with current environmental regulations. * Perform maintenance on pumping systems associated with refrigeration and HVAC equipment. * Perform preventive and corrective maintenance on electrical, automation, and control systems linked to HVAC and refrigeration systems. * Install, commission, and operate automation and control systems. * Diagnose faults, prepare technical reports, and use design and calculation tools to develop technical solutions. * Comply with safety standards, safeguard organizational assets, and support other maintenance tasks as required by operational needs at Cerro Tololo, Cerro Pachón, and La Serena. **Required Qualifications** * Degree as a **Higher-Level Technician or Executive Engineer in Refrigeration and HVAC** or related field. * **At least 3 years** of experience in installation, maintenance, and repair of refrigeration and HVAC systems. * Experience maintaining electrical systems associated with HVAC and refrigeration equipment. * Ability to diagnose faults using electrical and measurement instruments. * Knowledge of interpreting electrical drawings using AutoCAD. **Additional Requirements:** * Valid driver’s license, driving record compatible with the position, and experience driving 4x4 vehicles. * Ability to work autonomously under general guidelines. * Availability to work both in La Serena and at mountain facilities. This position involves work in both La Serena and at Cerro Tololo and Cerro Pachón, according to departmental scheduling, under the following work schedule: * **La Serena:** Monday to Friday, from 08:30 to 17:30 hours. * **Cerro Tololo and Cerro Pachón:** Monday to Friday, from 08:30 to 16:30 hours. Additionally, availability is required to respond to contingencies or extraordinary operational events outside regular hours, including weekends and holidays, as operational needs dictate. **Desirable Qualifications:** * Knowledge or experience in automation and control systems. * Experience with VRV HVAC systems. * PLC programming knowledge. * Experience in conceptual design of HVAC and refrigeration systems. * Proficiency with design and calculation software for technical solutions. * Technical English proficiency. **Physical Requirements of the Position** Due to the nature of this position, the role requires: * Health compatible with working at geographic altitudes up to 800 meters above sea level. * The position requires presence at mountain sites and in La Serena, as scheduled by the department. * Mobility, strength, and dexterity in arms, hands, and legs to handle tools and lift or move objects weighing up to 23 kg or more. * Ability to perform duties in various positions, including standing, moving, crouching, or kneeling. * Passing a pre-employment physical examination for high-altitude work. * Near vision, adequate depth perception, and visual accommodation ability. * Sufficient auditory capacity and communication ability to receive instructions and respond appropriately in operational and emergency situations. **How to Apply?** Applicants are encouraged to apply before **August 14, 2026**, to receive priority consideration during the selection process. The position will remain open until filled. Individuals requiring assistance during the employment process may request support here: here. **To apply, please submit:** * Cover letter * Updated Curriculum Vitae **Why Join Us?** AURA offers an excellent benefits package, competitive compensation aligned with experience, and a highly attractive work environment. More details about benefits can be found at: Benefits by Location \- Aura Human Resources. In addition, we offer a multicultural and collaborative work environment committed to scientific and operational excellence. Joining our team means contributing to the success of globally significant astronomical projects within an organization that values safety, integrity, and continuous improvement. Compensation for positions hired in Chile aligns with national labor market conditions and AURA’s internal salary scales. Equal Opportunity Employer This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.