Director of Dr. Edmond E. Griffin Planetarium

The Department of Physics, Astronomy, and Engineering at University of Central Arkansas invites applications for the position of Director of Dr. Edmond E. Griffin Planetarium, a 10.5-month, non-tenure-track Lecturer I position, beginning August 16, 2026. We seek a dynamic, engaging individual with a strong commitment to undergraduate education and public outreach. This is a half-time teaching and half-time service position with a 10.5-month appointment.

Teaching: The successful candidate will be responsible for teaching 9 contact hours per week during the fall and spring semesters. Summer teaching will be available but is not required. Courses will primarily be at the introductory level, serving both science majors and the general student population. The lecturer will be expected to:

• Develop and update course materials.
• Mentor undergraduate students.
• Participate in departmental and college service commensurate with a lecturer appointment.

Planetarium and Observatory Director

This position will serve as the Director of the Griffin Planetarium and the UCA Campus Observatory. Key management responsibilities include:

• Overseeing the daily operation, maintenance, and strategic development of the planetarium and observatory facilities and equipment.
• Developing and delivering engaging public outreach programs, including planetarium shows, observing sessions, and K-12 educational programs.
• Scheduling and supervising student workers and/or part-time staff assisting with facility operations.
• Managing the facilities’ budgets and collaborating with the department chair on equipment acquisition and upgrades.

More information about the Griffin Planetarium and UCA Observatory are available on the department website at https://uca.edu/physics/astronomical-facilities/. Please contact the Department Chair, Carl Frederickson, with any questions about the position.

The University of Central Arkansas is an equal opportunity institution. In keeping with its nondiscrimination policy in employment, admissions and other functions and programs, the university considers employees and students on the basis of individual merit and will not discriminate against a person on the basis of gender, race or color, ethnicity, religion, spiritual beliefs, national origin, age, familial status, socioeconomic background, sexual orientation, disability, political beliefs, intellectual perspective, genetic information, military status, or other factors irrelevant to participation in its programs.