Education and Engagement Manager for NOIRLab

Full time Regular Employment at Gemini Observatory

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Summary

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.

In this position, the successful candidate will serve as NOIRLab’s primary interface with our local host community on Hawai‘i Island. Responsibilities will include the management of some staff and interns, as well as oversight and leadership for programs like the annual Journey through the Universe program and participation in other community events. A deep understanding and appreciation for local Hawai‘i Island issues and concerns is critical to the success of this position, as well as working closely with the Hawai‘i Island and indigenous communities. The successful candidate must be sensitive to issues related to astronomy on Maunakea and be adept at listening to community needs and adapting and developing programs to meet these needs.

The Education & Engagement (E&E) Manager–Hawai‘i will work closely with the NOIRLab E&E Manager to implement local E&E programming that aligns with strategic goals, mission and vision for NOIRLab’s Communications Education and Engagement (CEE) Division. This position will actively participate in strategic planning and be a partner in implementing CEE goals and realizing its vision. It is expected that this position will advance to higher levels of management in the 3-5 year timeframe so proven human and project management skills are required.

Requirements

Education and Experience:

• Minimum 4-year degree in education, astronomy or related field
• Minimum of 8+ years’ experience and track record in community relations/engagement with a combination of project, program, and people-staff management skills preferably in astronomy, scientific or another research field.

Other Requirements:

• Knowledge and mastery of modern astronomical concepts, instruments and basic astronomy
• Ability to travel internationally
• Ability to work at altitudes of up to 14,000’
• Clean driving record
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds

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.

This work is mostly carried out in an office environment. Long periods of sitting may be required.

Given the international nature of AURA’s work, you may need to travel to the various observatory sites (Arizona, Chile, and Hawai’i) and other locations for business purposes.

AURA offers a mix-model workspace (office & virtual) and stimulating environments for all.

We also offer an excellent benefits package and competitive salary.

Additional Information

Additionally, this position will support broader NOIRLab Education and Engagement initiatives across locations in Arizona and Chile and it is expected that frequent travel will be required.

NOIRLab operates the international Gemini Observatory, Vera C. Rubin Observatory, Kitt Peak National Observatory, the Cerro Tololo Inter-American Observatory), the US-ELT Program and the Community Science and Data Center (CSDC) in the United States and in Chile. NOIRLab is the US national center for ground-based observational nighttime astronomy, and has sites of operations in Hawai‘i, Arizona, and Chile. NOIRLab launched in October 2019, with about 450 full-time staff and an approximately $80M USD annual budget.

About Gemini Observatory

The Gemini Observatory consists of twin 8.1-meter diameter optical/infrared telescopes located on two of the best observing sites on the planet. From their locations on mountains in Hawai‘i and Chile, Gemini Observatory's telescopes can collectively access the entire sky.