Astronomy Experiences Program Coordinator
Teton Science Schools · Jackson, WY · 4 wk ago
Full-time
Position PurposeTeton Science Schools (TSS) is a nonprofit educational organization whose mission is to connect people, place, nature, and each other through education. Wyoming Stargazing connects participants with the extraordinary night skies of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem and the universe beyond through engaging, accessible astronomy education.The Astronomy Experiences Program Coordinator supports the year-round delivery and operations of astronomy programming, including public and private stargazing experiences, solar astronomy, planetarium programs, classroom-based STEM education, special events, and other educational initiatives.This position combines program facilitation, logistics, staff coordination, and operational support. The Program Coordinator works closely with Wyoming Stargazing leadership to ensure high-quality programming, strong guest and partner experiences, well-prepared staff, and smooth day-to-day operations.ResponsibilitiesProgram Delivery & EducationFacilitate engaging public and private astronomy programs, including stargazing, solar astronomy, planetarium experiences, presentations, and special eventsProvide classroom-based STEM tutoring and astronomy education in partnership with local schoolsAdapt programming to meet the needs of participants with a wide range of ages, backgrounds, and levels of astronomy knowledgeSupport astronomical research and citizen science initiatives as appropriateContribute to major Wyoming Stargazing initiatives such as eclipse travel programs, dark sky conservation, astronomy certification programs, and Belonging in STEMProgram Operations & LogisticsCoordinate day-to-day program logistics, scheduling, equipment preparation, transportation, and program readinessCommunicate with guests, vendors, partners, and internal TSS teams to support successful program deliveryMaintain astronomy equipment, vehicles, program materials, and other operational resourcesPurchase and maintain appropriate program supplies and inventoryIdentify equipment and operational needs and provide recommendations to department leadershipSupport continuous improvement of systems, procedures, and program operationsStaff Training & CoordinationSupport the recruitment, onboarding, training, scheduling, and supervision of seasonal astronomy staff, interns, volunteers, and other program support staffTrain TSS staff who assist with Wyoming Stargazing reservations, logistics, and guest communicationMaintain and update staff training materials, including the Stargazing Leader ManualHelp ensure staff have the knowledge, resources, and support necessary to provide safe and high-quality educational experiencesProvide ongoing feedback, coaching, and operational support to seasonal staffOrganizational LeadershipCollaborate with Wyoming Stargazing leadership to implement departmental goals and prioritiesSupport communication and coordination across Teton Science Schools departmentsRepresent TSS professionally when working with guests, schools, community partners, vendors, and other stakeholdersParticipate in department and organization-wide meetings, trainings, and initiatives as appropriateQualificationsRequired QualificationsBachelor’s degree in astronomy, physics, STEM education, science education, or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and relevant experienceExperience in astronomy, STEM education, environmental education, informal education, or related programmingExperience coordinating programs, logistics, projects, or day-to-day operationsStrong communication, public speaking, and interpersonal skillsAbility to confidently facilitate educational experiences for diverse audiencesStrong organizational skills and attention to detailAbility to manage multiple priorities and respond effectively to changing program needsAbility to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a teamSound judgment, professionalism, and ability to appropriately handle confidential or sensitive informationComfortable learning and using technology including Google Workspace, Microsoft Office, scheduling systems, and other online platformsPreferred QualificationsThree or more years of experience in astronomy education, STEM education, informal education, program coordination, or a related fieldExperience supervising, training, or coordinating seasonal staff, interns, or volunteersExperience developing or adapting educational curriculumExperience working with telescopes, astronomy equipment, planetarium technology, or astronomical researchKnowledge of dark sky conservation or citizen science initiativesSchedule & Work EnvironmentThis is a full-time, year-round position with a schedule that varies seasonally based on programming needs.The position includes a combination of daytime, evening, nighttime, weekend, and occasional holiday work. Evening and nighttime availability is an essential part of the role due to the nature of astronomy programming.Program priorities vary throughout the year and generally include:January through April: Primary focus on STEM tutoring and school-based programs, with additional astronomy programming, research, and operational responsibilitiesMay through September: Increased astronomy programming, staff training, supervision, logistics, and summer program operationsOctober through December: Primary focus on STEM tutoring and school-based programming, with continued astronomy programming, research, and operational responsibilitiesWork hours may increase during periods of high program demand, special events, and seasonal programming.