High School Student Assistant - Public Affairs

W. M. Keck Observatory; Waimea/Kamuela (HI); On-site; USD 22,000 - 26,000; Part time

Job summary

W. M. Keck Observatory offers a High School Student Assistant position in Public Affairs. It provides hands-on experience supporting administrative, organizational, and technical tasks in a collaborative, in-person setting.

The temporary role is ideal for students seeking exposure to teamwork and career pathways in a professional environment. Compensation ranges from $16.00 to $18.52 per hour. The position requires part-time availability during the school year and summer, with in-person work at

Qualifications

• Basic computer skills required.
• Able to follow instructions and complete tasks.
• Willing to learn and participate in a professional work environment.

Responsibilities

• Assist with administrative, organizational, and project-based tasks.
• Support department activities in Public Affairs and work in-person at the workplace.

Skills

Basic computer skills

Follow instructions

Willingness to learn

Education

High school student in good standing

Job description

High School Student Assistant - Public Affairs

Application Deadline: 16 October 2026

Department: Public Affairs

Employment Type: Temporary

Location: W.M. Keck Headquarters

Reporting To: Department Supervisor/Manager

Compensation: $16.00 - $18.52 / hour

Description

Launch your professional journey with hands-on experience at W. M. Keck Observatory!

The Student Assistant in Public Affairs is a great opportunity for high school students to build real-world workplace skills while supporting meaningful projects in a collaborative, in-person environment. In this role, students will assist with administrative, organizational, technical, and project-based tasks while gaining exposure to teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and career pathways in a professional setting.

Why Choose W. M. Keck Observatory:

• Competitive starting salary ranging from $16.00/hr to $18.52/hr.
• Be a part of a dedicated team working on the frontiers of astronomy.

About W. M. Keck Observatory: With acknowledgment and profound respect for the cultural, ecological, and scientific significance of Maunakea, W. M. Keck Observatory offers astronomers a unique venue to explore the universe. Our twin telescopes are at the forefront of astronomical discovery, offering transformative insights into the cosmos. We are dedicated to service, stewardship, and our community, all while advancing our mission to unlock the mysteries of the universe. Join us in this endeavor!

What the Student Assistant in Public Affairs does:

The Student Assistant position provides high school students with the opportunity to gain meaningful, hands-on professional experience in a collaborative workplace environment. Students support departmental activities through a variety of administrative, organizational, technical, or project-based tasks while learning workplace skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.

Required Qualifications

Education

• o High school student in good academic standing.

Skills

• o Basic computer skills.
• o Ability to follow instructions and complete assigned tasks.
• o Willingness to learn and participate in a professional work environment.

Technical Competencies

• o Ability to work part-time during the school year and during the summer.
• o Ability to perform work in person at the workplace.