Observatory Coordinator

The City of Rancho Mirage is seeking a self-motivated hard-working team player with strong interpersonal skills to join our team. This is an outstanding career opportunity to join the City of Rancho Mirage and contribute to the continued success of this progressive and innovative organization.

Under the direction of the Library Director and Astronomer, aids in the planning and execution of the programs and functions of the City's Observatory at Rancho Mirage Library and Observatory. Aids in the daily operation of the Observatory, to best utilize this significant City asset to provide an educational, scientific, and entertainment benefit to City residents.

Example of Duties:
This class specification represents only the core areas of responsibilities; specific position assignment will vary depending on the needs of the department.

• Be well versed in the operation of telescopes and their support systems, the utilization and writing of software for event programming, and all technology associated with optimizing the potential of the Observatory.
• Ability to set up and operate telescopes, as well as explain to the public what is being seen. Also, able to train docents and supervise their use of the facility. 
• Aid in the design and presentation of engaging astronomy programs for various audiences (both children and adults) including the public, area schools, and community groups.
• Ensure the highest quality of content, program delivery and audience satisfaction built around the capabilities of the Observatory.
• Produce resource materials for schools, teachers, the public, and media as required.
• Utilize available sources for program content that will go beyond visuals provided by the Observatory telescope, e.g., NASA, the Jet Propulsion Lab, other observatories.
• Work with the City's IS Department for implementation of technology upgrades as needed.
• Assist with development of grant and sponsorship opportunities to enhance programming or further the mission of the Observatory.
• Work with the City's Marketing Department and Library Director to develop marketing and address media inquiries about the Observatory, its intended uses, astronomy, and the schedule of programs.
• Act as a staff resource for all Library exhibits and activities related to space science and astronomy.
• Aid in the training of docents and Observatory volunteers, to give and arrange tours of the Observatory, and welcome audiences to programs.
• Research and establish partnerships with astronomy clubs and schools.
• Aid in the development of a plan to increase public access to the observatory.  This may include researching what other facilities have done and surveying the public to see where interests lie. This plan should include timelines and potential options including what can be done with the existing infrastructure vs what could be done with expansion or improvements. 
• Other duties as deemed necessary by program and/or management needs.
• Performs other duties of similar nature and level as assigned to address organizational needs and changing organization practices. Night, evening, and weekend work is required.

QUALIFICATIONS / GUIDELINES 
The following generally describes the knowledge, ability, and education required to successfully perform the job duties.

Education and/or Experience: 
A bachelor's degree in science, Astronomy, the Astronomical Sciences, or related field is required with at least one year of observatory operational and programing experience.

• Experience in computer programming. Preferably in Python and Java in multiple operating systems desirable.
• Experience in video editing: melding stock video and other images into a full program built around visual content generated by the Observatory's telescope and technology.

Licensing/Certifications: 
Possession of or ability to obtain an appropriate California driver's license and a satisfactory driving record. 

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: 

• Ability to manage and work tactfully, enthusiastically, and courteously with staff, volunteers, other City personnel and elected officials.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal, including ability to speak effectively in front of a live audience. 
• The ability to share and communicate knowledge of astronomy and space science, as well as expanding public interest in the purpose and use of the City Observatory to a variety of audiences is essential.
• Experience in writing and managing grants is helpful.
• High degree of technical ability and interest in maintaining complex systems and equipment.
• Professional appearance and demeanor.
• Participate in recruitment, training, and scheduling of docents.

For a detailed job announcement and how to apply on line, please visit https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/ranchomirageca. If you have questions or need special accommodations with the recruitment process, please contact Letty Gallegos-Gallardo at (760) 324-4511 ext. 231.

The City of Rancho Mirage is an equal opportunity employer.