Astronomer Jobs

Position Summary

The Astronomer will serve as the Observatory’s resident expert on Astronomy and Space Science and will be responsible for representing the Observatory as such in the community through programming, social media messaging and public relations/media opportunities. In addition, the Astronomer supports development efforts and helps build and manage donor relationships. This position works collaboratively with staff to set and achieve goals for the Observatory’s Youth Outreach and public programming. The Astronomer position is a Senior staff position, is full time and reports to and works closely with the Executive Director.

Overview of Responsibilities

Work with the Executive Director to promote the Observatory in the community to media outlets, program partners, and the general public.

• Produce content for articles, blogs, and other social media channels that increase awareness about the Observatory’s mission and programs.
• Create new social media opportunities for the Observatory, i.e. YouTube show, Tik Tok, etc. in concert with staff as well as the board’s Marketing Committee.
• Create and identify opportunities with media outlets on astronomy-related topics to promote the Observatory.
• Develop and maintain relationships for the Observatory in the regional and national astronomy community.
• Create and identify opportunities for the Observatory with community partners.
• Collaborate with staff on regular press releases and social media messaging.

Develop programming and fee for service initiatives to fulfill the Observatory’s mission and vision, as well as budgetary and programming goals.

• Support the volunteer coordination efforts to ensure volunteers are assigned to proper programs, as well as identify potential volunteer needs.
• Collaborate with the Program staff and Executive Director on public programs, classes, and events.
• Understand target audiences and tailor programming to these groups.
• Develop and lead fee-for-service programming according to the department and the position’s annual and budgetary goals.
• Pursue opportunities to increase program revenues.

Contributes to cultivating relationships with key stakeholders to increase revenue.

• Assist the Executive Director with developing and implementing ideas to increase individual giving i.e. membership and corporate investment.
• Actively identify and share with the Executive Director potential donors from program participants, long term members, and other key groups.
• Help articulate the case for support when speaking with donors and key stakeholders.
• Participate in discussions with potential donors, grantors, etc. to secure funding.

Supports and participates in the overall organization strategic plan and work closely with the Programs department.

• Set priorities and establish clear expectations for the position’s performance outcomes in conjunction with the Executive Director
• Participate in regularly scheduled meetings with Program staff where departmental goalsare reviewed and discussed.
• Support the Education Manager and Program Manager by helping to articulate clear goals for these positions.
• Work in active collaboration with the Executive Director to implement the strategic plan objectives and reach the organization’s strategic goals and KPIs.
• Work with the Program team to set clear and measurable department goals

Additional duties as assigned

• Attend board meetings as needed and additional committee meetings as requested.
• Contribute to key discussions involving finance, governance, etc. when requested.
• Participate in successfully executing strategic planning initiatives where beneficial.
• Serve as staff lead on the board’s Program and Marketing Committees

Required Qualifications

• Excellent communication skills
• A spirit of collaboration to work with a team to reach organizational goals.
• Ability to lift and move objects up to 30 pounds.
• Availability for weekend and nighttime events and programming
• Expertise in the field of astronomy and space science
• A valid driver's license and reliable transportation as some travel is required.
• A passion for the Observatory’s mission
• 5-7 years of experience in informal education and/or science communication.

Salary and Benefits:Competitive salary as well as attractive benefits package including full health care coverage, IRA match, and more. Relocation package is also available.

To apply:please send resume and cover letter by November 1, 2023 to: Anna Hehman, Executive [email protected]

No phone calls, please.