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Full Time Keck Observatory Jobs (NOW HIRING)

W. M. Keck Observatory

Controller

Kamuela, HI · On-site

$124K - $152K/yr

Finance Employment Type: Full Time Location: W.M. Keck Headquarters Reporting To: Margarita ... Keck Observatory Are you ready for your next role to truly make an impact ? Wondering how your ...

W. M. Keck Observatory

Staff Astronomer I

Kamuela, HI · On-site

$83K - $100K/yr

Observing Support Employment Type: Full Time Location: W.M. Keck Headquarters Reporting To: Jim Lyke Compensation: $83,686 - $100,374 / year Description At W. M. Keck Observatory, we enable ...

W. M. Keck Observatory

Chief Financial Officer

Kamuela, HI · On-site

$183K - $229K/yr

... Full Time Location: W.M. Keck Headquarters Reporting To: Rich Matsuda Compensation: $183,141 - $229,714 / year Description Help Shape the Future of Discovery At W. M. Keck Observatory, our mission ...

Sakoda Construction, LLC

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Carpenter

Hilo, HI · On-site

$25 - $40/hr

... full time work. We work hard but also take time to enjoy our family and free time in Hawaii. We are ... We do mostly tenant improvement for the hospital system, UHH, keck observatory, and doctors offices.

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Full Time Keck Observatory information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Full Time employee at Keck Observatory, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Full Time employee at Keck Observatory, you generally need a strong background in physics, astronomy, or engineering, supported by relevant degrees or experience. Familiarity with advanced telescopes, scientific instrumentation, data analysis software, and possibly programming languages such as Python or MATLAB is often required. Excellent problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and strong communication skills help individuals excel in collaborative research and technical environments. These skills and qualities ensure high-quality scientific output, effective operations, and successful collaboration in a complex, multidisciplinary setting.

What are some unique challenges that full-time employees face when working at Keck Observatory?

Full-time staff at Keck Observatory often work in an environment that is both remote and specialized, requiring adaptability to unique logistical and operational challenges. Employees may need to adjust to working at high altitude and adapt to non-traditional schedules, including night shifts or extended stays on the summit. Collaboration across diverse scientific and technical teams is common, and clear communication is essential to support the Observatory’s research goals. While the setting is inspiring, it demands flexibility, teamwork, and a strong commitment to safety and precision.

What is a Full Time position at Keck Observatory?

A Full Time position at Keck Observatory refers to a regular, benefits-eligible job where employees work a standard number of hours per week, typically 40 hours. Keck Observatory is a world-renowned astronomical research facility located in Hawaii, known for operating some of the largest optical telescopes in the world. Full Time roles at the observatory can include positions in science, engineering, technical support, administration, and maintenance. Employees in these positions contribute to the observatory's mission of advancing astronomical research and often enjoy a collaborative work environment and unique professional development opportunities.
What are the most commonly searched types of Keck Observatory jobs? The most popular types of Keck Observatory jobs are:
Full Time Keck Observatory jobs near you
Infographic showing various Full Time Keck Observatory job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.
Controller

Controller

W. M. Keck Observatory

Kamuela, HI • On-site

$124K - $152K/yr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Controller
Application Deadline: 31 July 2026
Department: Finance
Employment Type: Full Time
Location: W.M. Keck Headquarters
Reporting To: Margarita Scheffel
Compensation: $124,924 - $152,091 / year
Description
" Controller with the complexity of a large organization and the impact of a small team." Join W. M. Keck Observatory
Are you ready for your next role to truly make an impact? Wondering how your financial leadership could elevate an organization with a mission that reaches far beyond the ordinary? As the Controller at W. M. Keck Observatory, you'll ensure the accuracy, timeliness, and integrity of our financial operations-critical pillars that support our work to explore the cosmos and share its wonders with the world. You'll shape accounting strategy, strengthen internal controls, and deliver transparent governance reporting that empowers scientific discovery.
If you're a finance leader who wants your expertise to fuel breakthroughs that inspire the imagination of all, we'd love to meet you.
Apply now and start making that difference.
*Candidates do not need to have held a Controller title previously but should be ready step into a high-impact leadership role.
Why Choose W. M. Keck Observatory:
  • Competitive salary starting between $124,924 and $152,091, based on experience.
  • Generous benefits package, including 4 weeks of annual paid vacation.
  • Robust retirement benefit with an 8% employer contribution and 4% employee contribution.
  • Tuition assistance for dependent children in grades K-12 attending independent schools on Hawai'i Island.
  • Employer-provided health insurance, offering a range of coverage options tailored to individual and family preferences.
  • Be part of a mission-driven team working at the frontiers of astronomy.

Key Responsibilities
  • Lead all accounting operations, including general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, and financial close processes.
  • Prepare and review financial statements in accordance with GAAP, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
  • Maintain a strong internal control environment and identify, assess, and escalate financial and compliance risks.
  • Oversee monthly, quarterly, and annual close processes, including journal entries, reconciliations, and supporting schedules • Supervise and develop accounting staff.
  • Ensure compliance with restricted contributions and private grant requirements.
  • Support preparation of required tax filings and business registrations.
  • Partner with Sponsored Programs to ensure compliance with federal regulations and flow-down provisions for awards and grants related to project, property, and revenue accounting.
  • Support internal compliance reporting through the compliance matrix.
  • Provide inputs and supporting documentation for Finance and Audit & Compliance Committees.
  • Support CFO in Board and committee reporting, including financial trends, risks, and control considerations.
  • Serve as lead liaison to the Audit & Compliance Committee.
  • Collaborate with Business Systems and Planning functions to ensure financial data integrity and reporting consistency.
  • Reinforce financial controls and best practices across the organization.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
  • Education
    • Bachelor's degree in accounting, Finance, or related field.
  • Experience
    • 10+ years of progressive accounting and financial management experience.
    • Experience with ERP systems in a complex organization.
  • Skills
    • Strong accounting and financial reporting skills.
    • Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
    • Strong communication and collaboration skills.
    • Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment
  • Technical Competencies
    • GAAP financial reporting
    • Internal controls and financial compliance
    • Audit preparation and support
    • Financial systems (ERP experience)
  • Certificates and Licenses o CPA required

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