About Arizona Science Center

Located in downtown Phoenix, Arizona Science Center features more than 300 hands-on exhibits, a state-of-the-art planetarium, a five-story giant-screen theater, live demonstrations, traveling exhibitions, and exciting science programs. The Center offers programs for all ages, including Science on Wheels, CAMP INNOVATION, Teen programs, Professional Development, and Adults’ Night Out: Science With A Twist. Whether onsite or at your location–get ready to embark on a hands-on STEM learning journey you’ll never forget.

Arizona Science Center is an EEO/ADA Reasonable Accommodation Employer.

JOB DESCRIPTION

As the Senior Scientist, Astronomy and Astrophysics at Arizona Science Center, you will provide exceptional on-the-floor guest engagement for people of all ages. You will work closely and oversee the staff scientist, Astronomy and Astrophysics creating engaging, relevant science content. This position is also committed to fostering an inclusive and enriching learning environment. Reporting directly to the Manager, Guest Experience you will ensure the delivery of hands-on science experiences that directly correlate with current and future exhibits. In this managerial role, you will be a driving force in elevating the Arizona Science Center's impact in Astronomy and Astrophysics for guest engagement. Your advanced education and extensive experience uniquely position you to lead a team that delivers captivating and strategically aligned science content that drives attendance and improves guest satisfaction, ensuring the organization's continued success in science education and public engagement.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Visitor Experience and Guest Engagement

• Daily, engage with guests inside the center, offering high-quality science communication
• Facilitate Astronomy and Astrophysics based activities to encourage an understanding of current science in a hands-on learning environment
• Provide exceptional guest engagement for Planetarium programming
• Stay informed of advances in the fields of Astronomy and Astrophysics to provide up-to-date information to guests 

Strategic Content, Program Development, and Collaboration

• Collaborate with internal and external partners to enhance the overall visitor experience for the Mission Future Exhibit, Planetarium, and in other areas of Astronomy and Astrophysics
• Identify innovative approaches to convey complex concepts in Astronomy and Astrophysics that align with new programming and new and future exhibits for guest engagement
• Develop, implement, train, and deliver specific content and programming such as Global Astronomy Day, Global Astronomy Week, Solar Eclipse, Lunar Eclipse, Solar Month, Moon Landing Anniversary, Upcoming NASA launches, etc.
• Work closely with exhibits to help create content for traveling exhibits related to Astronomy and Astrophysics, including activity guides, facilitation, and evaluation.
• Ensure staff training for content execution for traveling exhibits related to Astronomy and Astrophysics
• Continuously assess scientific content to verify its alignment with the latest scientific advancements.

Leadership and Oversight

• Oversee the Staff Scientist, Astronomy and Astrophysics, providing high-level guidance in engagement, program development, training, demonstrations, and exhibit creation
• Set strategic goals for advancing science education initiatives for Astronomy and Astrophysics
• Possess technical expertise in telescope use and maintenance
• Monitor expenditures and maintain financial records to ensure adherence to budgetary constraints.

QUALIFICATIONS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below represent the knowledge, skill, and ability required. Knowledge of Pre K-12 educational systems.

• Knowledge of indigenous ways of knowing.
• Knowledge of Arizona College and Career Ready Standards.
• Knowledge of youth development concepts and strategies.
• Knowledge of student-centered, inquiry-based, experiential learning approaches.
• Knowledge of community organizations.
• Skill in planning and coordinating activities.
• Skill in effective verbal and written communication and reporting.
• Skill in problem-solving and decision-making.
• Skill in adapting program content and complexity to the ages and interests of students and program participants.
• Ability to be relied upon to be on time and prepared for programs.
• Ability to work individually and in a team.
• Ability to work with limited supervision.
• Ability to communicate and collaborate effectively with a variety of stakeholders
• Ability to present effectively with diverse audiences. Ability to manage and engage small and large groups in learning activities. Ability to speak clearly and project voice across a classroom.
• Ability to engage the audience in higher-level thinking through inquiry-based questioning and discussion.
• Ability to multitask and adjust quickly to changing priorities or organizational needs.
• Demonstrated experience in supervising staff.
• Experience engaging people in interactive, hands-on, engaging learning experiences
• Ability to work evenings and weekends.
• Experience using and maintaining telescope equipment

EDUCATION and EXPERIENCE 

• Master's degree preferred and/or equivalent of at least four years of related experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. 
• Experience with standard computer applications; proficient in MS Office skills, including Word, Outlook, and PowerPoint.
• Experience working in the field of Astronomy or Astrophysics

LANGUAGE SKILLS 

Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from managers, clients, customers, and the general public.

Ability to read, write, and converse in Spanish, Navajo, or Diné preferred.

BENEFITS include, but are not limited to:

• 21 paid days off annually including holidays, birthdays, and vacation days
• 15 days of accrued sick time
• Professional Development Opportunities
• Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance
• Life and Long Term Disability insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Family membership to Arizona Science Center and 600 Association of Science and Technology Centers (ASTC)
• Admission Exchange Program - Year-round complimentary admission for the employee and one guest to visit the Phoenix Zoo, Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix Art Museum, Heard Museum, Arizona Museum of Natural History, etc.