Present astronomy programs and help facilitate special events in the Maryland Science Center’s planetarium. A part-time planetarium presenter is someone who is comfortable with public speaking, able to set up and operate the planetarium theater, able to plan and present programming to varied audiences, and able to work as part of a technical team.
Duties and responsibilities:
1. Facilitate events in the planetarium
Greet, engage, and assist event guests into the planetarium. Operate and monitor computer and projection equipment, and manage crowds and physical space. Events include internal events such as Camp-in planetarium shows, Music Under the Dome, and Karaoke, and private events like corporate events and weddings.
2. Public speaking
Present astronomy themed programs for Scout Camp-in, Super Science Sleepovers. PJ party and evening family events, and/or adult group rental events.
3. Setup and operate theater for event
Lift, push, pull and move furniture to set theater for event. Connect external technology, such as laptops or microphones to the system when required for an event. Work with venders for setup. Sweep floors before and after event. Operate digital planetarium theater system. Clean up and reset the theater for the next day.
4. Plan and present programming for varied audiences
Work with event program manager and planetarium manager to prepare for different types of events. Be present for rehearsals or planning sessions to understand the program requirements.
5. Work as part of technical team
Be able to troubleshoot technical problems during events to make sure things run smoothly.
Knowledge, skills and abilities:
Knowledge of
- Night sky, astronomy and space science
- Basic science content
Skills
- Public presentation and speaking for a wide range of audiences
- Familiarity with computers, astronomical and audio-visual software
- Operate and monitor computer and projection equipment
Ability to
- Work both independently and as a part of a team
- Adapt to a variable work week schedule to include evening and weekend hours
- Work with various MSC departments to accomplish goals
- Make independent decisions
- Provide excellent guest service to museum visitors
Education and experience:
- Bachelor’s degree in astronomy, science education or related field. Relevant experience may be substituted for some of the education requirement
- Public presentation experience in museum, school, or other setting, event facilitation.
Requirements:
- Experience working with the general public (including children)
- Comfort in front of audiences
- Familiarity with science content
- Ability to provide excellent guest service to museum visitors
- Demonstrate good judgement, personal responsibility, and productive impact
- Ability to pass background check or fingerprinting
- Attend training sessions as part of on-boarding process and beyond
- Applicants must be at least 21 years of age. Interest and/or coursework in science, or education are encouraged. All applicants must be able to work both independently and as a part of a team.
- Ability to work in low lighting situations
- Ability to work with bright flashing lights and moving images in a large domed theater
- Ability to lift, push, pull and move furniture
- Comfortable with loud music or sounds
How to Apply
Download and complete our employment application. Submit application and/or resume with cover letter online to jobs@mdsci.org, specifying which position applying for, or mail to:
Education-Human Resources
Maryland Science Center
601 Light Street
Baltimore MD 21230
OR
Via fax to 410-545-5974, Attn: Human Resources.
EOE/M/F/H/V. No phone calls please.