Job Details

Description

AURA's mission is to provide innovative, open resources to enable discovery and excellence in research, to unify the astrophysics communities, and to promote public understanding of our universe and the benefits of science exploration. AURA carries out its role through its astronomical facilities.

We invite to apply for the position of Property Administrator, to be based at its facilities in La Serena -Chile, with periodic visits to the Cerro Tololo and Cerro Pachón observatories.

The primary purpose of this position is to manage and maintain AURA’s asset inventory in Chile, ensuring compliance with institutional policies and the regulations of funding agencies such as the National Science Foundation (NSF). This role is essential to guarantee proper traceability, documentation, and disposition of institutional property.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage AURA’s property control system, ensuring that all assets are properly recorded, classified, and tagged.
• Coordinate and carry out annual inventory inspections, verifying the location, condition, and documentation of assets.
• Maintain up-to-date inventory records in coordination with the CAS Accounting department and AURA Centers in Chile.
• Assign control numbers and inventory tags to new assets, recording their information in institutional databases.
• Lead the asset disposal and auction processes, ensuring compliance with contractual and NSF requirements.
• Develop and maintain lists of recycling and e-waste vendors.
• Prepare and submit annual inventory reports and other property reports required by AURA or external agencies.
• Review and update property management procedures as needed.
• Collaborate with the Logistics team in receiving, documenting, and photographing materials that require tagging.
• Provide support to internal departments in matters related to property administration, transfer, or disposal.
  
  

Educational Requirements

• University degree or higher technical education in one of the following fields: Management Control, Accounting, Logistics Engineering, Foreign Trade or International Trade Engineering, Logistics Administration, or a related area.
• Experience: At least two years of proven experience in asset control, inventory management, or property administration.
  
  

Knowledge And Skills

• Intermediate proficiency in Microsoft Excel and database management.
• Desirable knowledge of asset management standards and disposal procedures.
• English Proficiency: Strong ability to read, understand, and respond to professional emails and documents in English. Fluency in speaking is also desirable.
• Driver’s License: Valid Class B (or equivalent) license without restrictions. Certification for safe driving on mountain roads is highly desirable or must be obtained after hiring.
• Ability to operate or obtain certification for forklifts or other material-handling equipment.
• Strong organizational skills, ability to work independently, and high sense of responsibility.
• Good interpersonal skills and willingness to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams.
  
  

Working Conditions And Environment

• Primary workplace: La Serena, Chile, with occasional travel to Cerro Tololo (2,200 m) and Cerro Pachón (2,700 m) observatories.
• Must be physically able to lift and move items weighing up to 23 kg (50 lbs).
• Availability to travel within and outside Chile as required.
• Work in a technical and collaborative environment, focused on compliance with international standards for property and asset management.
  
  

Why Join AURA

AURA offers an excellent benefits package including paid time off and retirement plan contributions, competitive salary commensurate with experience, and a very attractive work environment. Details on benefits can be found at Benefits by Location - Aura Human Resources.

Also 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.

How To Apply

Apply by (Date) for priority consideration. This position will remain open until it is filled. Please submit a cover letter and a CV or resume, PDF files preferred. Please name any attachments with the following format: LastName_DocName.

Individuals needing assistance with the employment process can request assistance at employment@aura-astronomy.org