The Lawrence Hall of Science

The public science center of the University of California, Berkeley.

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Planetarium Specialist

The Lawrence Hall of Science is welcoming applications for a Planetarium Specialist. Under the leadership of the Planetarium Director and Planetarium Manager, the Planetarium Specialist will deliver Earth & space science programming to public audiences across the science center. This position maintains presentation spaces and knowledge of equipment in our planetarium domes, Science on a Sphere, relevant exhibits and events, and other educational offerings.

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Responsibilities

The Planetarium Specialist assists in the development of new programming by creating digital media, physical materials & props to convey instructional scripts and curricula. This position is the lead Planetarium presenter and assists in the implementation of training plans for student and volunteer presenters. Collaborating across the science center, this position assists in ensuring programs are well communicated and scheduled onsite and online. The Planetarium Specialist also assists in evaluation efforts for all relevant programming.

  • Provide daily delivery of programming in dome and science on a sphere learning spaces for public, school and summer camp audiences. May be asked to deliver programs offsite or online as required.
  • Maintain physical presentation spaces (e.g. planetarium, science on a sphere, event spaces, etc). Ensure that spaces are fully stocked with materials, tidy, and in working order.
  • Maintain current technical knowledge of physical (e.g. telescopes) & digital equipment (e.g. computers and projectors) used in planetarium and SoS, as well as oversee and troubleshoot equipment. Communicate capabilities, constraints, and maintenance needs to relevant staff to support ongoing maintenance.
  • Assists in the implementation of training plans and quality assurance goals set by planetarium manager and planetarium director for student and volunteer presenters.
  • Assist in ensuring on site programs are well communicated and scheduled within the science center environment through signage and accurately represented online.
  • Provides technical coding expertise for assisting in the advancement of scripts, supporting program revision and software programming by following project plans and ensuring deadlines are reached. Also supports the development or sourcing of props.
  • Coding within Worldviewer, a simple GUI-driven javascript-like language to lead the coding of planetarium show development. Installing new datasets and building playlists when requested for Science on a Sphere.
  • Beta testing with audiences for comprehension, engagement and entertainment + iterating through completion. Assist in the implementation of evaluation efforts.
  • Professional Development and Other duties as assigned.

How to Apply

To apply, please submit your resume and cover letter addressed to Dr. Bryan Mendez. 

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Required Qualifications

  • Time management skills and ability to meet deadlines, and prioritize deliverables.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with strong public speaking and presentation ability. 
  • Ability to work effectively as part of an interdisciplinary team.
  • Skill in using business software systems in the completion of work assignments; i.e. Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint.
  • Effectively use chosen business and document management systems, currently the Google G Suite, Monday.com, and Zoom. 
  • Operate the Planetarium’s software as an experienced user level. 
  • Ability to execute simple sound production and video editing.
  • Ability to engage learners in planetarium, SoS, floor experiences and exhibitions.
  • Demonstrate understanding of, sensitivity to, and respect for the diverse academic, socioeconomic, ethnic, religious, and cultural backgrounds of visitors.
  • Content knowledge in astronomy, and familiarity with related space science ideas.
  • Working knowledge of the night sky and ability to answer introductory questions from the public.

Education and Training 

  • Bachelor’s degree in Astronomy or related field AND three years of planetarium operations experience; OR, Any equivalent combination of experience and/or education from which comparable knowledge, skills and abilities have been achieved.
  • Continuing education in related field required.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Skilled in operating astronomical telescope as needed for public viewing.
  • English-Spanish bilingual an asset.
  • Working knowledge of training development and/or learning strategies.

Licenses and Certifications 

  • First aid, CPR certification desirable and/or willingness to be certified.

Application Review Date

The First Review Date for this job is: March 7, 2024. For full consideration please submit application materials by March 14, 2024. The department will review applications on a rolling basis. The job will remain open until filled.