Cronyn Outreach Assistant

WESTERN UNIVERSITY; London; On-site; CAD 2,066,000 - 3,031,000; Part time

Job summary

Western University’s Department of Physics and Astronomy in London, Ontario, seeks an Outreach Assistant to develop, promote, and deliver engaging astronomy events at Cronyn Observatory. Under supervision, you will prepare demonstrations, coordinate materials, and assess program impact.

You will engage with diverse audiences, operate telescopes, and support online outreach channels. A science degree and prior outreach experience are required; willingness to work a flexible schedule is essential.

Qualifications

• University degree in a science field (astronomy or planetary science is preferred).
• Prior outreach experience for science programs targeted for kids and the general public is desirable.
• Prior experience with astronomical observations and operating a telescope is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Development, preparation, promotion, delivery and evaluation of outreach events and activities.
• Organize materials, displays, and demonstrations for science tutorials.
• Operate telescopes and conduct astronomy demonstrations.
• Engage with participants via email and social media.
• Coordinate with supervisor and outreach team.

Skills

Astronomy knowledge

Science communication

Public outreach

Organization

Social media management

Presentation skills

Flexibility

Team collaboration

Education

University degree in a science field (astronomy or planetary science preferred)

Tools

Telescopes

Job description

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About Us

The Department of Physics and Astronomy’s team of faculty, staff, researchers, and program students has over 200 members, all passionate about understanding the fundamental laws that govern the Universe and all that it contains. In our state-of-the-art research facilities on campus and around the world, we make discoveries and share our knowledge with a diverse academic and research community. We aspire to be an equitable, diverse, inclusive, and decolonized environment where all members are valued and respected. If you are inspired to join our community, we look forward to hearing from you.

Responsibilities

Under the supervision of Prof. Cami, the Outreach Assistant(s) will be responsible for the development, preparation, promotion, delivery and evaluation of outreach events and activities at the Cronyn Observatory. The role(s) will work with the supervisor to prioritize development activities and event scheduling.

The duties and responsibilities may also include:

• Instruction, lecturing or supervision at outreach events
• Preparation of materials or set-up of required displays or apparatus for science tutorials or demonstrations
• Reviewing astronomy materials/content
• Developing and conducting/supervising science outreach programs
• Operating Telescopes
• Conduct literature reviews, surveys and other research for use in Science Communication in in-person and online events and on social media
• Organize reference materials, visual aids, presentations, posters, and other materials as required by the supervisor
• Employer required training (e.g. WHMIS and other necessary health and safety training; Safe Campus Community training; AODA training)
• Employer required meetings (e.g. meetings with the supervisor and outreach team)
• Reading and corresponding electronically with participants relevant to the outreach program (e.g. email and social media) and
• Other outreach-related duties

Qualifications

Education:

University degree in a science field (astronomy or planetary science is preferred)

Experience:

• Prior outreach experience for science programs targeted for kids and the general public is desirable
• Prior experience with astronomical observations and operating a telescope is desirable

Skills, Abilities & Expertise:

• Good general knowledge of astronomy and planetary science, including basic knowledge of the night sky
• Excellent science communication skills to deliver engaging and informative presentations and activities appropriate to the target audiences using appropriate communication channels
• Ability to apply creativity, innovation and resourcefulness to daily work and development of new activities
• Communication skills to describe technical concepts effectively to both novice and sophisticated users
• Management of an online presence, including web site development/updates and social media channels
• Ability to summarize information and disseminate to others effectively in a timely manner
• Ability to creatively adapt traditional methods, concepts, models or systems to new applications
• Organizational and multi-tasking skills to prioritize and consistently produce high-quality work
• Personable and courteous in working relationships with colleagues, students and the public
• Ability to work within a flexible schedule to accommodate the University’s events and activities

Why Western?

Western offers a broad and exciting variety of part-time and temporary employment opportunities with ample room for job exploration and growth. Within our beautiful campus, you are part of a progressive work environment that promotes work/life balance including access to our state-of-the-art recreation centre. Apply for an opportunity to be part of the Western community and contribute to its success!

Western Values Diversity

The University invites applications from all qualified individuals. Western is committed to employment equity and diversity in the workplace and welcomes applications from women, members of racialized groups/visible minorities, Indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation, and persons of any gender identity or gender expression.

Accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. If you require accommodations for interviews or other meetings, please contact Human Resources or phone [phone].

Applicants should have oral communication skills in English.

Please Note:

This position is an existing vacancy. This position is fully in-person, on-site. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those chosen for an interview will be contacted.