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.

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.