Observatory Director and Lecturer in Physics and Astronomy

The University of North Georgia (UNG) invites applications for a full-time (12-month) Observatory Director and Lecturer in the Department of Physics & Astronomy. This position provides dedicated leadership to expand and elevate the observatory's impact. Key opportunities include growing public programming, strengthening partnerships with K-12 schools and regional institutions, and building a sustained pipeline into physics, astronomy, engineering, and related fields. The upcoming Astronomy on Wheels initiative (launching Fall 2026) will further extend the observatory's reach across North Georgia.

Please be advised that any offer of employment is contingent upon your eligibility to work in the United States. The university is aware of recent federal changes that may significantly increase the cost of filing H-1B visa petitions. 

As a public institution, the university's ability to cover such costs is subject to budgetary constraints and state funding policies. Therefore, while we remain committed to supporting international faculty hires, we cannot guarantee payment of any newly imposed or increased visa-related fees.

If you have any questions regarding the visa policy, please contact Monica Arrendale at (706) 867-4470. 

• Teaching one astronomy lecture course and one or more laboratory courses each semester (or equivalent) 
• Providing year-round operational leadership of the observatory 
• Managing facilities, instrumentation, and observing operations 
• Planning, scheduling, and directing public programs and events 
• Hiring, training, and supervising student assistants 
• Supporting faculty and student use of the observatory for instruction and research 
• Expanding outreach initiatives and community partnerships 
• Performing related duties consistent with the scope of the role 

• Master's degree in astronomy, physics, or a closely related discipline from an accredited institution 
• Experience with observatory operations, telescope systems, or astronomical instrumentation 
• Demonstrated effectiveness in undergraduate teaching, particularly in laboratory settings 
• Experience with public outreach, informal science education, or K-12 engagement 
• Evidence of program development or leadership in academic or community-facing initiatives 

The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 25 institutions of higher education and learning as well as the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 8.2.18.1.2 and can be found on-line at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section8/C224/#p8.2.18_personnel_conduct.

Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 6.5 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom found on-line at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section6/C2653.

The University of North Georgia, a unit of the University System of Georgia, is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, sex or national origin, age, disability, religion, genetics or veteran status. Georgia is an open records state. Also, UNG is a federal contractor and desires priority referrals of protected veterans.