Director of Mt. Graham International Observatory (Safford, AZ)

Director of Mt. Graham International Observatory (Safford, AZ) Posting Number req25838 Department Steward Observatory Department Website Link Location Outside of Tucson Address MGIO Base Camp, 1480 W. State Route 366, Safford, AZ 85546 USA Position Highlights

Steward Observatory is both a century-old observatory on the University of Arizona campus and one of the University’s oldest research units. Founded in 1918, the Observatory brings together students, staff, faculty, engineers, and technicians to explore the universe and share discoveries through world-class research, education, and outreach. With more than 180 professionals supporting advanced facilities, laboratories, and observatories, Steward Observatory offers a collaborative environment where technical expertise plays a critical role in advancing ground- and space-based astronomy.

Steward Observatory of the University of Arizona is seeking to fill the position of Director of the Mount Graham International Observatory (MGIO). The selected candidate will provide vision, leadership, direction and support to MGIO in all aspects of planning, programming and facilities management. The Director plans, directs, and monitors the daily operations of MGIO; reviews and approves the acquisition and allocation of capital equipment and space to meet both short- and long-term goals; and plans and manages the budget. This position reports to the Director of Steward Observatory.

Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more!

The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs. For more information about working at the University of Arizona and relocations services, please .

Duties & Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership and Operational Oversight

• Provide strategic leadership and executive oversight of the daily operations of the MGIO, ensuring alignment with Steward Observatory and the University of Arizona priorities.
• Maintaining continuous communication with supervisory staff across custodial, operations, and administrative functions to ensure alignment with current program plan directives.
• Monitor interdepartmental relationships and proactively address potential issues, adjusting personnel and operational plans as needed to sustain efficient, coordinated operations.
• Foster regular communication with all staff to ensure alignment on organizational goals, promote shared understanding of priorities, and support coordinated efforts toward achieving common objectives.
• Establish operational goals, policies, and performance standards to support the mission objectives, regulatory compliance, and long-term sustainability.

Workforce Leadership and Human Capital Management

• Direct a multidisciplinary workforce composed of technical, professional, and administrative staff.
• Oversee all aspects of human capital management, including organizational planning, recruitment and hiring, workforce development, training, scheduling, performance management, and annual evaluations.
• Foster a high-performance, collaborative work environment that promotes accountability, professional growth, and operational excellence.

Facilities Operations, Vendor Management, and Contract Oversight

• Collaborate with the MGIO Council and key stakeholders to plan, prioritize, and ensure the delivery of comprehensive logistical, maintenance, and custodial services that support the safe, efficient, and continuous operation of MGIO facilities.
• Lead the procurement, negotiation, and management of external vendor relations and service contracts.
• Oversee contract performance, ensure compliance with institutional policies and safety standards, and coordinate to minimize operational disruptions and maintain critical infrastructure reliability.

Program Planning, Budget Management, and Compliance

• Lead the development, implementation, and ongoing oversight of the annual MGIO Program Plan, establishing priorities, goals, and resource allocations that support scientific operations, infrastructure needs, and organizational initiatives.
• Provide oversight and management of the MGIO budget, including planning, monitoring, forecasting, and adjusting expenditures to ensure fiscal responsibility and alignment with operational priorities and long-term objectives.
• Ensure compliance with University policies and applicable regulations.

Government, Community, and Professional Engagement

• Serve as the primary liaison between MGIO and local, county, state, and federal agencies; the community; and professional forums, leading high-level communication, coordination, and negotiations to ensure compliance, foster partnerships, and support operational and strategic objectives.
• Perform additional duties as assigned, consistent with the scope and responsibilities of senior leadership role, including special projects, strategic initiatives, and organization priorities as described by executive leadership.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work long, irregular shifts and have the ability to take occasional after-hours call-outs, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Ability to lift and transport up to 50 lbs and routinely climb stairs and ladders at altitude.
• Ability to work for extended periods of time at remote sites at elevations up to 11,000 feet.
• Ability to work in extreme mountain weather conditions.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs)

• Knowledge of engineering principles and procedures.
• Knowledge of facilities maintenance and operations.
• Ability to perform duties with a high degree of independence and limited or minimal supervision.
• Excellent leadership, interpersonal, and supervisory skills, with the ability to mentor and manage staff, foster cooperation, and encourage a collaborative working environment.
• Ability to work effectively with a wide range of people at all levels of the organization and with a variety of external stakeholders.
• Ability to plan and manage projects.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work nights and weekends, including occasional overnight stays at telescope sites.
• Proficiency using Windows and Microsoft Office.

This job posting reflects the general nature and level of work expected of the selected candidate(s). It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The institution reserves the right to amend or update this description as organizational priorities and institutional needs evolve.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in science or engineering or equivalent discipline
• Minimum of 7 years of related work experience, including 3 years of managerial experience, or equivalent combination of education and work experience.
• Must have a valid driver’s license and ability to drive according to the University .

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with medium-voltage (25 kV) power transmission and distribution systems.
• Experience working in higher education environments.
• Experience in public outreach and education.
• Experience collaborating with local city, county, state, and federal agencies.
• Experience or interest in astronomy.
• Experience in public speaking on topics relevant to MGIO.

FLSA Exempt Full Time/Part Time Full Time Number of Hours Worked per Week 40 Job FTE Work Calendar Fiscal Job Category Organizational Administration Benefits Eligible Yes - Full Benefits Rate of Pay $75,540 - $98,201 Compensation Type salary at full-time equivalency (FTE) Grade 10 Compensation Guidance The Rate of Pay Field represents the University of Arizona’s good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. The University considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, education/training, key skills, and internal equity.

The Grade Range represent a full range of career compensation growth over time. The university offers compensation growth opportunities within its career architecture. To learn more about compensation, please review our and our . Career Stream and Level M3 Job Family Administrative Operations Job Function Organizational Administration Type of criminal background check required: Fingerprint criminal background check (security sensitive due to job duties) Number of Vacancies 1 Target Hire Date Expected End Date Contact Information for Candidates Dennis Zaritsky
Deputy Director, Steward Observatory

Open Date 5/1/2026 Open Until Filled Yes Documents Needed