Title: Part Time Astronomy Educator
State Role Title: Education Support Specialist I
Hiring Range: $15.00/Hourly
Pay Band: 3
Agency: The Science Museum of Virginia
Location: Broad Street Station
Agency Website: https://smv.org/
Recruitment Type: General Public - G
Job Duties
The Science Museum of Virginia is looking for a dynamic Astronomy Educator to bring our immersive technologies to life, creating and delivering unforgettable live presentations for our museum guests in The Dome.
As an Astronomy Educator, you’ll be at the forefront of science education, utilizing cutting-edge immersive technologies to present unique and up-to-date astronomical content. You'll directly engage with the general public, school group, and special event audiences guiding them through exciting explorations and sparking curiosity.
In addition to delivering daily presentations, you’ll play a key role in planning and preparing fresh, new material to support upcoming shows and current celestial discoveries. But that’s not all – you’ll also get hands-on with our state-of-the-art theater display and automation software ensuring each show runs smoothly and flawlessly. You’ll even get the chance to flex your tech skills with occasional maintenance on our PC, video projectors, and other cool equipment!
Please note that this is a part-time position and will be scheduled for 29 hours a week on average with a maximum of 1500 hours in a 12-month period. No state benefits are provided. Interested applicants must apply at http://jobs.virginia.gov/
Minimum Qualifications
The ideal candidate will have knowledge and demonstrated ability to plan and implement informal science educational programs and events. A strong working knowledge of astronomy is essential, including the ability to interpret astronomical data from almanacs, star charts, books, and internet resources, as well as familiarity with current astronomical events. The candidate should also possess the ability to effectively interact with the general public, community groups, outside vendors, and staff members, demonstrating strong oral and written communication skills. Excellent interpersonal skills are required, along with the demonstrated ability to schedule, manage, and supervise volunteers and, if needed, paid staff. The ability to solve problems effectively, along with previous experience in basic PC and audio/visual equipment troubleshooting and maintenance, is also necessary. Patience, flexibility, and a strong desire, commitment, and ability to work with children are essential qualities for success in this role. Must be able to work evenings, weekends and holidays.
Additional Considerations
A passion for or strong interest in astronomy and astronomy education. Previous experience delivering educational programs in both informal and formal settings is highly desirable. Museum experience would be a valuable asset, as would proficiency in American Sign Language (ASL) or Spanish.
Special Instructions
You will be provided a confirmation of receipt when your application and/or résumé is submitted successfully. Please refer to “Your Application” in your account to check the status of your application for this position.
The Science Museum of Virginia will accept ONLY online applications for all Science Museum employment opportunities. Mailed, emailed, faxed, or hand delivered applications and resumes will not be accepted. The decision to interview an applicant is based on the information provided on the application; therefore, it is essential to provide detailed information. Submitting an application lacking in detail, may impact your interview eligibility. This website will provide a confirmation of receipt when the application is submitted for consideration. Please refer to “Your Application” in your Page Up account to check the status for this position. Computers are available for applying for jobs in public libraries and the Virginia Employment Commission offices. Science Museum HR will provide, if requested, reasonable accommodation to applicants in need of accommodation in order to provide access to the application and/or interview process. If any assistance is needed when applying online, please contact Museum Human Resources at 804-864-1477.
The Science Museum seeks motivated people of all backgrounds. We value diversity of cultures, races and ethnicities, gender expressions, and abilities. EEO/AA
Notice: Science Museum HR will record information from each new employee’s Form I-9 (Employment Eligibility Verification) into the Federal E-Verify system to confirm identity and work authorization.
Contact Information
Name: Human Resources
Phone: 804.372.3766
Email: hr@smv.org
In support of the Commonwealth’s commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their AHP Letter (formerly COD) provided by the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Service-Connected Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS/DBVI to get their AHP Letter. Requesting an AHP Letter can be found at AHP Letter or by calling DARS at 800-552-5019.
Note: Applicants who received a Certificate of Disability from DARS or DBVI dated between April 1, 2022- February 29, 2024, can still use that COD as applicable documentation for the Alternative Hiring Process.