Bell Museum Planetarium Educator

Minnesota Council of Nonprofits; Saint Paul (MN); On-site; USD 35,000 - 37,000; Part time

Job summary

Bell Museum invites applications for a Planetarium Educator to implement astronomy education for school and public audiences, and to assist with reservations logistics and on-site preparation. The role emphasizes collaboration with PESL and outreach teams while delivering engaging programs from the Bell Museum planetarium.

The ideal candidate brings astronomy knowledge, experience with K–12 settings, and a collaborative, flexible approach. Evening events and on-call shifts may occur as needed.

Qualifications

• BA or BS in science or education and a minimum of 2 years experience working with K–12 youth in a formal, informal, or museum educational setting or equivalent experience totaling 4 years.
• Demonstrated working knowledge of astronomy
• Creative, enthusiastic, and thrives working in a team setting.
• Comfortable working in a dynamic environment with flexibility, dependability, quickness to troubleshoot, and good humor.

Responsibilities

• Deliver astronomy programming to diverse learners using varied teaching techniques.
• Present on-site planetarium programs for school and public audiences.
• Assist with virtual and on-site observing programs.
• Present from the planetarium located in the Bell Museum.
• Assist in visit preparation and logistics for education programs.
• Participate in program editing/development collaborations.
• Mentor Planetarium Guide staff in museum responsibilities and planetarium techniques.
• Support PESL and planetarium programs at the museum and offsite outreach venues.

Skills

Astronomy knowledge

Teamwork

Adaptability

Creative mindset

Education

BA/BS in science or education

Job description

Position Overview:

The purpose of the Planetarium Educator position is to implement astronomy educational programming to diverse school and public audiences. The position will assist the planetarium and group reservations staff in logistical aspects of programming, including materials and technology management and on-site preparation.

We are looking for individuals to join our team who are inspired by our mission to ignite and sustain curiosity for nature and the Universe and achieve our vision of a hopeful future where all are inspired by nature and empowered by science. We believe that difference is a strength and are looking for candidates who reflect and respect diversity. We encourage you to apply for the position even if you do not believe you meet every qualification.

Major Areas of Accountability (with percentages):

• Astronomy Programs Delivery (85%)
  • Deliver programming that engages a diverse range of learners and encourages participation through the use of a variety of teaching techniques.
  • Present on-site planetarium programs for school and public audiences as needed.
  • Assist with virtual and on-site observing programs as needed.
  • Present from the planetarium located in the Bell Museum.
  • Assist in visit preparation and other logistics for education programs.
  • Participate in editing and/or program development collaborations.
  • Mentor Planetarium Guide staff in a variety of museum responsibilities and planetarium techniques.
• Support of Public Engagement and Science Learning Programs (15%)
  • Step in to support PESL and planetarium programs at the museum and offsite outreach venues as needed, including the delivery of programs and participation in special event programming.

Essential Qualifications:

• BA or BS in science or education and a minimum of 2 years experience working with K – 12 youth in a formal, informal, or museum educational setting or equivalent experience totaling 4 years.
• Demonstrated working knowledge of astronomy
• Creative, enthusiastic, and thrives working in a team setting.
• Comfortable working in a dynamic environment where flexibility, dependability, quickness to troubleshoot, and good humor are paramount

Desired Qualifications:

• Knowledge of best practices in informal science education and inquiry-based learning
• Formal education or experience in science and STEM curriculum delivery and program implementation, with demonstrated track record of excellence in teaching
• Experience working with culturally and age-diverse populations

Pay Range: $25.73- $27.20

Application Deadline: September 29, 2026. Application review will begin September 22, 2026.

Working Hours:

• Must be available to work scheduled shifts between 8:45am – 3:15pm, Tuesday through Friday with a half-hour lunch break.
• Hours will average 16 hours/week.
• Occasional evening shifts for planetarium and observing events may be requested.
• Some on-call work may be available to cover unexpected staff absences.