other

Kitt Peak Visitor Center Evening Guide full_time

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 part-time seasonal position of KPVC Evening Guide will support our array of evening program offerings including conducting the Nightly Observing Program for audiences including the general public, tour groups, schools, youth groups and others. In this role, the KPVC Evening Guide is the public face of the NOIRLab and KPNO to our evening guests and are expected to represent NOIRLab and KPNO in a positive, professional manner at all times.

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 (SoS), 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). This position reports to the KPVC Guide & Docent Coordinator.

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.

There are several opportunities for growth in this position and to learn how to operate the Dark Sky Discovery Program, the Night of the Marvelous Moon program, and other special programs. Staff with proven records may be invited to present the Overnight Telescope Observing Program or other advanced programs.

Essential Functions:

  • 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.
  • 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

  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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 a valid GSA permit issued by NOIRLab.
  • Ability to pass a pre-employment background check, per NOIRLab policy.

Preferred Education/Experience/Skills/Abilities:

  • Experience operating astronomical telescopes for the public. 
  • Advanced astronomy knowledge or astronomy experience
  • Familiarity with methods of audience analysis.
  • Active or recent membership in the Association of Science and Technology Centers (ASTC), American Alliance of Museums (AAM), or other relevant museum or interpretation professional societies.
  • Familiarity with the Tohono O’odham Nation and the accomplishments of Kitt Peak National Observatory.
  • 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

Preference will be given to qualified internal candidates and qualified Native Americans living on or near the Tohono O’odham reservation.

Salary Range: $17.97/hour. 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/benefits-by-location/

We hire throughout the year for multiple positions and continuously review applications. By submitting your resume now, you’ll be considered for future opportunities as they arise.  

  • 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. 

Consistent with the actions of the Biden Administration, as of 12 May 2023, AURA will no longer require COVID-19 vaccination of its employees in the U.S. AURA employees in the U.S. may be subject to COVID-19 vaccination requirements from other entities, such as host institutions or partner affiliations. 

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.

Job Overview