SOFIA Head of Communications and Public Outreach (425-500)

USRA is seeking a knowledgeable, talented and experienced Head of Communications and Public Outreach who can help deliver high impact scientific results to the public, the astronomical community, journalists who cover the astronomical sciences, and to NASA management.

The Head of Communications and Public Outreach will lead a team of communications specialists at USRA, and work closely with NASA Public Affairs and the science community.  A key role of this individual is to maximize the exposure of the most intellectually engaging and potentially newsworthy science coming from the Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy (SOFIA), build the visibility for the science behind SOFIA, and conduct Science Outreach, Public Engagement and Public Affairs activities.

Duties and Responsibilities

The Head of Communications and Public Outreach will, in cooperation with NASA, be responsible for the Public Affairs, Public Outreach and Scientific Outreach programs for the SOFIA program. The incumbent will manage the staff and activities associated with the public affairs and outreach programs and will be held accountable for achieving the objectives established by NASA and USRA for keeping the science community, the media, and the public at large informed as to the scientific status of SOFIA, its accomplishments, and opportunities for participation in the Observatory's programs.

The Head of Communications and Public Outreach must be able to provide leadership and vision to continue and grow SOFIA’s successful astronomy news and public outreach program.

•Candidates must have demonstrated management and leadership skills, and are expected to oversee a broad communications program with staff astronomers, educators, media relations personnel and technical staff.
•Experience with Internet and other electronic communications media is strongly desired.
•Candidates must have the ability to identify and pursue new opportunities and partnerships, and should possess the skills and personality to interact comfortably with the press, astronomers in the community, and leaders in NASA, large aerospace firms, and potential corporate sponsors.
•The ability to manage a robust social media presence with NASA’s approval is paramount.
•Candidates should be able to engage with the community and build sustainable partnerships.

Required Skills

•Advanced degree in astronomy/astrophysics/physical sciences isdesirable. A science journalism degree in addition to the advanced degree in the astronomical sciences is desirable.
•10-12 years of proven relevant experience in public relations, community engagement, and media relations required.
•Previous experience managing a communications staff required.
•Ability to multitask to successfully meet concurrent or simultaneous deadlines required.
•Demonstrated leadership competency and ability to work effectively with senior leadership teams.
•Skilled in managing sensitive and urgent issues.
•Demonstrated ability to develop productive working relationships with multiple constituencies.
•Strong analytical skills, resourcefulness, good organizational skills, and familiarity with scientific concepts and technical/scientific writing highly desirable.
•Experience in deadline-driven scientific or educational environment is strongly preferred.
•Experience working with U.S. Government Agencies.

All interested candidates must apply directly on our website at https://usracareers.silkroad.com/.

USRA is an Equal Opportunity Employer Minorities/Females/Protected Veterans/Disabled/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity