KPVC Overnight Guide

NSF’s NOIRLab is the preeminent US national center for ground-based, nighttime optical and infrared astronomy. NOIRLab is a Federally Funded Research and Development Center (FFRDC) which operates as a matrix organization, providing services across a range of programs: Gemini, Rubin, MSO (CTIO and KPNO), and CSDC; with facilities in three geographic locations: Arizona, Chile and Hawai’i. The mission of NOIRLab is to enable breakthrough discoveries in astrophysics by developing and operating state-of-the-art ground-based observatories and providing data products and services for a diverse and inclusive community.

The Kitt Peak Visitor Center is comprised of the museum, retail gift shop, the four Kitt Peak Visitor Center (KPVC) telescopes and the NOIRLab Windows on the Universe Center for Astronomy Outreach (Windows Center) with its Science on Sphere, 3 Heliostats and future planetarium. The KPVC operates as 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).

Do you enjoy sharing astronomy with the world? We are seeking a full-time candidate with an outgoing personality, excellent public speaking skills, and strong knowledge of and passion for astronomy to join the Kitt Peak National Observatory Visitor Center team and support our array of night-time program offerings. You must enjoy and be proficient at sharing your knowledge with diverse groups of visitors. In this role, you are the public face of the NOIRLab and KPNO to our overnight guests and are expected to represent us in a positive, professional manner at all times. This is a full-time position.

Routinely presents a variety of evening and nighttime programs at the Kitt Peak Visitor Center. Is thoroughly experienced in presenting each evening program currently offered, and frequently presents the more advanced programs, such as the Overnight Telescope Observing Program. Occasionally presents daytime programs or other programs not occurring at the Visitor Center. Has a deep understanding of astronomy and a very good proficiency in the use of each KPVC telescope. Frequently serves in a quasi-supervisory capacity as the “lead guide” on nights of public programs.

While most work is performed at Kitt Peak, some candidates may be trained to conduct special programs that occur at other locations. Transportation to the work sites and meals during shifts on the mountain are provided by NOIRLab.

These positions report to the Guide & Docent Coordinator.

Essential Functions:

• Conducts engaging, lively Overnight Telescope 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
• Sharing job knowledge by training recently hired staff or volunteers, participating in staff meetings and other communications/discussions.
• 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.
• After attending required training, operates and carefully follows accounting and Point of Sale system (cash register) procedures for ticket and merchandise sales in the Gift Shop.
• 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 Functions:

• Other duties as assigned.

Required Education/Experience/Skills/Abilities:

• Three years of astronomical observing experience
• Demonstrated ability to translate abstract scientific concepts to a public audience.
• Astronomy knowledge at advanced amateur astronomer level, a strong familiarity with the night sky, and experience with a variety of observing techniques and equipment;
• Ability to work enthusiastically, cooperatively and patiently with all guests, volunteers and staff.
• Proven strong public speaking, teaching, and interpretative skills. Must have ability to loudly and clearly project voice to audiences indoors and outdoors.
• Must have the ability to work a flexible schedule of shifts that routinely include both late afternoons and nights.
• Ability 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.
• Able to work independently for extended periods of time.
• Must have well developed PC computer skills, including email, 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 diverse audiences.
• Valid State driver’s license and ability to get a GSA permit issued by NOIRLab.

Preferred Education/Experience/Skills/Abilities

• A degree in astronomy or a physical science is preferred.
• Experience operating astronomical telescopes for the public.
• Experience with astrophotography, DSLR and CCD imaging. Proven image processing skills. Knowledge of Photoshop or other relevant software
• Proficiency in Google Workspace
• Familiarity with the Tohono O’odham Nation and the accomplishments of Kitt Peak National Observatory.
• Experience using a cash register
• Bilingual English/Spanish

Physical Demands:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Able to walk, climb stairs and ladders, and work effectively at Kitt Peak National Observatory, which is located at an altitude of 6,800 feet, for sustained periods of time.
• Ability to speak clearly, and often at length, with adequate volume to groups during presentations.
• The employee is regularly required to stand, walk, reach with hands and arms, and occasionally stoop or crouch.
• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is often required to sit; use hands to finger, handle, or feel and talk or hear.
• The employee must occasionally lift and /or move up to 20 to 25 pounds, including computers, monitors, and video projectors.
• Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.
• Must possess – sufficient mobility, strength, or dexterity in both arms and hands and both legs to a) reach upward, sideways, downward to work with paper files; b) sufficient mobility and dexterity to utilize computer systems, fax machines, copiers, and other office machines; c) climb stairs and ladders; d) bend, kneel, and stoop.
• Must possess – 1) ability to read and understand instructions, drawings, safety guides, and other written materials necessary to perform job; 2) sufficient visual capacity to perform the applicable functions without assistance of visual aids other than eye contacts or eye glasses; 3) sufficient spoken aural capacity to hear and understand instructions, warning bells, fire alarms, or shouted instructions without assistance of auditory aids other than a hearing aid; and 4) ability to impart information orally so that others understand and can respond appropriately.
• Ability to work at 6,800’ and may be required to extend worktime and/or stay overnight at Kitt Peak based on emergency operational and/or safety needs.

Salary Range: $27.69/hr – $32.31/hr.  The final salary will depend on skills, qualifications, and experience.

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/employee-benefits-guide/ 

The position will remain open until it is filled. To be considered in the first round of reviews, please submit your application by May 31, 2024. 

• Please submit a cover letter and a CV or resume, PDF files preferred. Please name any attachments with the following format: Lastname Docname. 
• Application documents that are not uploaded as part of the application may be sent to employment@aura-astronomy.org. 
• Please enter 3 professional references in your application (references will only be contacted later in the recruitment process). 

Veterans, disabled individuals or wounded warriors needing assistance with the employment process should request assistance at employment@aura-astronomy.org 

The Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA) is a consortium of 49 US institutions and 3 international affiliates that operates world-class astronomical observatories for the National Science Foundation and NASA. AURA’s role is to establish, nurture, and promote public observatories and facilities that advance innovative astronomical research. In addition, AURA is deeply committed to public and educational outreach, and to diversity throughout the astronomical and scientific workforce. AURA carries out its role through its astronomical facilities. 

As a recipient of U.S. Government funding, AURA is considered a government contractor and is subject to Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action regulations. As an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer, AURA does not discriminate based on race, sex, color, age, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity/gender identity expression, lawful political affiliations, veteran status, disability, and/or any other legally protected status under applicable federal, state, and local equal opportunity laws. The statements below as well as the requests for self-identification are required pursuant to these regulations. We encourage your participation in meeting these federal reporting requirements which are included for protection and to assist us in our recordkeeping and reporting. Your responses are kept strictly confidential.