Kitt Peak Visitor Center Evening Guide

About the role

The Kitt Peak Visitor Center (KPVC) is an integral part of the Communications, Education & Engagement (CEE) unit under the matrixed supervision of the Head of CEE and the Director of Mid-Scale Observatories (MSO). This position reports to the KPVC Guide & Docent Coordinator.

Responsibilities

• Conducts engaging, lively Nightly Observing Programs with enthusiasm and scientific accuracy to diverse audiences.
• Operates telescopes and provides interesting interpretation of the viewed objects to guests.
• Uses a PC to accurately point the telescope and track astronomical objects.
• Provide excellent customer service to guests and project a professional image of the KPVC team.
• Reliably and punctually reports to all assigned shifts.
• Dependability and reliability are essential in this position.
• Adequately studies and prepares for programs, with ongoing reading to remain up to date on recent developments in astronomy and strong familiarity with the current night sky.
• Fill out Night logs for every event, including any incidents.
• Conducts alternative programs, interesting demonstrations, and special tours on cloudy nights.
• Safely drives NOIRLab vehicles to transport visitors for cloudy night tours and special programs.
• Works closely and cooperatively with the Guide & Docent Supervisor and the Visitor Center Operations Manager on issues relating to public programs.
• Closely and consistently adheres to all NOIRLab policies and procedures, especially those relating to visitor safety, use of company vehicles, cash register operations, and light pollution control during work shifts.
• Helps with telescope, program equipment, building and grounds cleaning and maintenance.
• Stay up to date with developments related to astronomy, and to the science done at KPNO and NOIRLab in general.
• Perform other safety and security functions during shifts at Kitt Peak, as required of all team members.
• Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• A substantial knowledge of observational astronomy, a strong familiarity with the night sky, and experience with a variety of observing techniques and equipment.
• Demonstrated ability to translate abstract scientific concepts to a public audience.
• Ability to work enthusiastically, cooperatively, and patiently with all guests, volunteers and staff.
• Strong public speaking, teaching, and interpretative skills.
• Must have ability to clearly project voice audibly to audiences indoors and outdoors.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule of shifts that routinely include both late afternoons and nights.
• Able to receive continual training, put training into practice, and accept ongoing constructive feedback from managers and colleagues.
• Ability to learn abstract and practical concepts in astronomy as well as use of common astronomical instruments.
• Proficiency in Google Workspace or Microsoft Office and the ability to quickly learn new applications.
• Ability to obtain CPR and AED certification provided by NOIRLab, and to complete any other required safety training.
• Ability to remain calm under pressure, adapt easily to new procedures or program format changes, deal effectively and tactfully with the public, fellow employees, managers, and volunteers; and respond professionally to unusual or unexpected situations.
• Organized, energetic, honest, and outgoing with a strong work ethic.
• Must enjoy working with varied audiences.
• Valid State driver’s license and a valid GSA permit issued by NOIRLab.
• Ability to pass a pre-employment background check, per NOIRLab policy.

Skills

• Well developed PC computer skills, including email.
• Ability to obtain CPR and AED certification provided by NOIRLab, and to complete any other required safety training.
• Ability to remain calm under pressure, adapt easily to new procedures or program format changes, deal effectively and tactfully with the public, fellow employees, managers, and volunteers; and respond professionally to unusual or unexpected situations.

Qualifications

• A substantial knowledge of observational astronomy, a strong familiarity with the night sky, and experience with a variety of observing techniques and equipment.
• Demonstrated ability to translate abstract scientific concepts to a public audience.
• Ability to work enthusiastically, cooperatively, and patiently with all guests, volunteers and staff.
• Strong public speaking, teaching, and interpretative skills.
• Must have ability to clearly project voice audibly to audiences indoors and outdoors.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule of shifts that routinely include both late afternoons and nights.
• Able to receive continual training, put training into practice, and accept ongoing constructive feedback from managers and colleagues.
• Ability to learn abstract and practical concepts in astronomy as well as use of common astronomical instruments.
• Proficiency in Google Workspace or Microsoft Office and the ability to quickly learn new applications.
• Ability to obtain CPR and AED certification provided by NOIRLab, and to complete any other required safety training.
• Ability to remain calm under pressure, adapt easily to new procedures or program format changes, deal effectively and tactfully with the public, fellow employees, managers, and volunteers; and respond professionally to unusual or unexpected situations.
• Organized, energetic, honest, and outgoing with a strong work ethic.
• Must enjoy working with varied audiences.
• Valid State driver’s license and a valid GSA permit issued by NOIRLab.
• Ability to pass a pre-employment background check, per NOIRLab policy.

Benefits

AURA offers an excellent benefits package including paid time off and retirement plan contributions, competitive salary commensurate with experience, and a very attractive work environment. Details on benefits can be found at https://hr.aura-astronomy.org/benefits-by-location/.

Pay

$17.97/hour. The final salary will depend on skills, qualifications and experience.

Schedule

Flexible schedule of shifts that routinely include both late afternoons and nights.