The University of Arizona's Steward Observatory invites applications for the part-time position of Outreach Instructional Assistant III. This position is responsible for organizing and leading all aspects of the Mount Lemmon SkyCenter's nightly, public star gazing programs. Utilizing the Observatory's 0.8-meter and 0.6-meter telescopes situated at the summit of Mount Lemmon, the program leader is responsible for facilitating the astronomical outreach program, and engaging guests in exploring natural phenomenon and the wonders of the night sky.
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Duties & Responsibilities- Deliver complex astronomy information and promote astronomy content, programs, materials for community outreach programs. These programs are for external audiences such as individuals, families, organizations and communities.
- Work and communicate with team members and the general public of all ages.
- Support other departmental outreach events.
- Create new material and curriculum for outreach presentations.
- Maintain relevant trainings and certifications; keep abreast of news in space sciences at the UA and elsewhere.
- Preparation of site and telescope before and after programs.
- Assist with inventory levels and merchandise stocking.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
- Ability to work/communicate well with team members and the general public of all ages.
- Ability to achieve program objectives.
Environmental Requirements:
The work of this position occurs both at the summit of Mount Lemmon at an altitude of ~9170 ft., as well as other locations in the Tucson valley and in-between. Individuals performing this position must be able to work safely outdoors at varied elevations in climate conditions typical of being outdoors.Minimum Qualifications- High school diploma or high school diploma equivalency is required.
- Minimum of 5 years of relevant experience, or equivalent combination of education and work experience.
- Ability to drive according to the University.
TheGrade Rangerepresent a full range of career compensation growth over time. The university offers compensation growth opportunities within its career architecture. To learn more about compensation, please review ourApplicant Compensation Guideand ourTotal Rewards Calculator.Career Stream and LevelOC3Job FamilyOutreach EducationJob FunctionOutreach & Community EngageType of criminal background check required:Name-based criminal background check (non-security sensitive)Number of Vacancies6Target Hire DateExpected End DateContact Information for CandidatesCathi Duncan | cduncanf@arizona.eduOpen Date8/1/2025Open Until FilledYesDocuments Needed to ApplyResume and Cover LetterSpecial Instructions to ApplicantNotice of Availability of the Annual Security and Fire Safety ReportIn compliance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act (Clery Act), each year the University of Arizona releases anAnnual Security Report (ASR)for each of the University’s campuses. These reports disclose information including Clery crime statistics for the previous three calendar years and policies, procedures, and programs the University uses to keep students and employees safe, including how to report crimes or other emergencies and resources for crime victims. As a campus with residential housing facilities, the Main Campus ASR also includes a combined Annual Fire Safety report with information on fire statistics and fire safety systems, policies, and procedures.
Paper copies of the Reports can be obtained by contacting the University Compliance Office at cleryact@arizona.edu.
Freqently Asked Questions
This position merges astronomy knowledge with public interaction by leading star gazing events and crafting educational content tailored to diverse Tucson audiences. It emphasizes hands-on outreach using telescopes, fostering community curiosity about celestial phenomena at the University of Arizona's Steward Observatory.
Strong communication across all ages, expertise in astronomy concepts, and the ability to manage outdoor events at high altitudes are crucial. Candidates should also be adept at developing engaging educational materials and handling logistical tasks like inventory and telescope prep.
Career growth often involves expanding responsibilities in program leadership, curriculum design, and community impact. The University of Arizona offers compensation advancement and skill development opportunities within its outreach education stream, rewarding increased proficiency and contribution.
Absolutely. Tucson’s clear desert skies and high-altitude locations like Mount Lemmon create optimal conditions for star gazing but require readiness to work outdoors in fluctuating weather and thin air, demanding physical adaptability and safety awareness.
Tucson’s strong scientific community and educational institutions foster steady demand for outreach roles. However, positions like this one at the University of Arizona attract numerous applicants due to the unique blend of astronomy and public engagement, making competition moderately high.
This role directly supports the university’s mission by facilitating interactive astronomy programs that educate and inspire local communities. It strengthens public science literacy while enhancing the university’s visibility as a leader in STEM outreach within Tucson and beyond.
The access to specialized telescopes atop Mount Lemmon and the focus on both scientific accuracy and public engagement make this role unique. The university’s commitment to innovative work-life balance and community impact further enhances the experience.
This pay range aligns competitively with part-time educational outreach roles in Tucson, reflecting the specialized nature of astronomy content delivery and outdoor program facilitation. The University of Arizona’s structured grade system also allows for incremental salary growth.
The position offers hands-on leadership in astronomy education using advanced observatory equipment, plus opportunities to create curricula and participate in multi-event outreach. The university’s network and resources enable continuous learning and community impact unmatched by typical STEM outreach roles.
Workers must adapt to high-altitude conditions, variable weather, and nighttime outdoor work. Ensuring equipment readiness and engaging diverse audiences while maintaining safety protocols are essential, demanding both technical skill and interpersonal agility.
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