Museum Planetarium Educator

New Hanover County•Wilmington, NC

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Cape Fear Museum is seeking an enthusiastic Planetarium Educator to operate its new 60-seat digital dome planetarium. This role involves using Digistar 7 software, leading engaging shows and programs, and designing curriculum-based educational experiences for school groups and the general public. It's an opportunity to blend science education with technology in a museum setting, ideal for someone comfortable with public speaking and technical equipment, dedicated to making science accessible and exciting.

Requirements

Knowledge of educational programming principles, learning standards and teaching techniques, and museum best practices.
Communication and interpersonal skills as applied to interaction with the general public, coworkers, supervisor, etc.
Skilled in verbal and written communications.
Knowledge of astronomy, physics, and/or other science and history subjects.
Knowledge of planetarium projector hardware and software systems (specifically Digistar 7 and ChromaCove system).
Video editing skills.
Using computers and application software.
Researching and writing educational materials.
Writing articles and reports.
Training volunteers.
Scheduling and coordinating events.
Developing programs targeted for specific groups.
Operating standard office equipment.
Organizing and prioritizing work assignments.
Establishing and maintaining effective working relationships.
Bachelor’s Degree in Education, Museum Studies, Graphic Design, Astronomy, Physics, other science fields, or related field.
Three (3) years of museum or classroom education experience that includes developing and teaching children’s and adult programs in history and science; or an equivalent combination of training and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job.
Valid Driver’s License and good driving record required at time of application.
Valid North Carolina Driver’s License required by the first date of employment with good driving record.

Responsibilities

Independently operates planetarium equipment and software.
Leads planetarium programs and shows.
Designs, develops, and implements curriculum-based educational programs and events for school and public audiences in astronomy and related disciplines in conjunction with the Museum Education Team and Planetarium Supervisor.
Designs, develops, and implements curriculum-based educational programs and events for school children in history, science, or multi-disciplines, in accordance with NC standards, and public educational programs and events for all ages; develops effective pre- and post-visit materials, evaluations, and program kits.
Develops program and planetarium calendars and coordinates program, planetarium, and teaching schedules with colleagues and supervisor.
Coordinates and leads planetarium programs/shows while overseeing/utilizing volunteer “ushers” in coordination with the Education Manager and Volunteer Coordinator.
Completes regular training in planetarium equipment; program content and delivery; and assists in training/overseeing volunteer “ushers” as needed.
Develops and presents both full-dome video and live planetarium shows to schools, groups, and visitors in the planetarium, in coordination with their supervisor.
Maintains/troubleshoots planetarium equipment and software – especially on Sundays and Mondays when they work independently – ensuring planetarium shows/programs are available 7 days-a-week, during all operating hours.
Maintains equipment, materials, teaching kits and supplies assigned to the education staff and assures their proper availability, storage, and safety.
Modifies programs depending on content needs of the audience and the current night sky/astronomy events.
Purchases, organizes, and maintains planetarium components and educational materials in coordination with their manager and the Planetarium Supervisor.
Participates in general Education Team and Museum meetings.
Meets weekly with the Planetarium Supervisor to ensure a smooth, consistent 7-day-a-week operation.
Participates with education and exhibit teams on assigned projects to incorporate best practices of museum interpretation into exhibits – especially when related to astronomy or similar disciplines.
Works with museum exhibit team to design, plan, fabricate, and install museum exhibits when needed.
Researches and maintains content knowledge for all Museum programs and exhibits; and teaches as needed.
Represents the Museum by serving at various community organizations.
Identifies, develops, and maintains connections with other Museum professionals and key community contacts to strengthen core knowledge and skills and apply to Museum planning.
Researches, writes, and administers grants for educational programs.
Manages public operations of department on a rotating basis; opens and closes facility; responds to customer, facility, and/or security issues that arise.
Assists with department budget.
Assists with the promotion of programs and events through content development, video creation, and networking.
Performs work during emergency/disaster situations.
Attends annual mandatory trainings.
Performs other duties as assigned that support the overall objective of the position.