Headlands Astronomer (Seasonal)
POSITION: Headlands Astronomer (Seasonal)
DEPARTMENT: Parks & Recreation
SUPERVISOR: Headlands Park Manager
RATE OF PAY: $17.00
LOCATION: Headlands International Dark Sky Park
JOB SUMMARY:
The Headlands International Dark Sky Park has been a designated International Dark Sky Park since 2011, and the observatory and event center at the park has been open since 2017. The park is open 24/7, every day of the year. This position consists of operating various telescopes, public speaking and communicating with the general public while giving guided tours of the sky on clear nights.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES:
- Provide guided telescope viewing and constellation identification to the public on clear nights
- Communicate in an instructive, informative, and kind manner with guests
- Maintain cleanliness of observatory and telescope equipment
- Work with volunteer docents to be sure every observing night is scheduled and fully staffed
- Continue to be a steward of the night and sharing the importance of protecting the night from artificial light
- Must have a flexible schedule, be available to work late nights, along with every clear night during the summer months
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all job duties performed by personnel so classified.
EMPLOYMENT QUALIFICATIONS
Desired Behavioral Traits
- Self-motivated
- Task oriented
- Honest
- Physically able to handle duties and responsibilities
Growth Opportunities
- Operate 20” PlaneWave telescope inside the observatory, in addition to the 6” Takahashi solar Scope
- Capture images of the night sky of your choosing
- Create programming that matches your strengths
- Continue your own personal research with the use of our equipment
Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities
- Great communication skills
- Ability to lift, bend, reach without assistance
- Able to perform a variety of tasks
Education/Experience
- Current college student or college graduate preferred
- Astrophotography experience preferred, but not required
- Writing experience preferred, but not required
- Professional speaking experience preferred, but not required
- Teaching experience preferred, but not required
- Customer service experience
Certifications/Licenses Required
- Valid drivers’ license