Lead, Education Programs (Steward Observatory)

The University of Arizona's Steward Observatory invites you to apply to the role of Lead, Education Programs. The University of Arizona Sky School provides science outreach programs for K-12 students delivered at field sites in Tucson and the Catalina Mountains, including multi-day programs hosted at the Mt. Lemmon SkyCenter Observatory. Programs are instructed by a team of science graduate students, who mentor participants as they learn about the unique Sky Island ecology and astronomy using authentic, hands-on scientific tools and methods. The Sky School strives to merge a wide variety of science and engineering disciplines to foster a deeper understanding of our earth, while building an appreciation for our sense of place.

The Education Programs Lead provides comprehensive coordination in the design, planning, and delivery of UA Sky School's science outreach programs within Steward Observatory. This role is responsible for leading all aspects of program design, coordination, logistics, and the management of on-site program delivery, supporting the instructional team and assisting with administrative operations to ensure high quality, safe, and efficient programs.

• This position includes occasional nights and weekends work.
• Overnight stays on Mt. Lemmon may be required as needed.
• Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
• This position may be eligible for a hybrid work assignment in conversation with the supervisor

Outstanding UA benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; UA/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to UA recreation and cultural activities; and more!

Program Design, Coordination, and Evaluation:

• Oversees the strategic creation, rollout, and evaluation of instructional content to meet Sky School program objectives.
• Develops data-driven instructional strategies to align with evolving program needs and requirements. Efforts to collect this data may include, but is not limited to, the creation of surveys or conducting interviews with participants, staff, and other stakeholders, meeting regularly with the Sky School Director to present, discuss, and strategize future plans for based on those findings.
• Leads all logistical aspects of the Sky School's programs, including the design, planning, scheduling, catering, supplies, and permits, and is charged with troubleshooting issues as they come up.
• Serves as the primary point of contact for schools, teachers, vendors, and partners during program planning and implementation.
• Prepares and catalogs program documentation such as itineraries, invoices, agreement forms, and participant paperwork.

Program Delivery and On-Site Operations

• Oversees on-site program delivery with the instructional team, ensuring quality participant experiences and smooth daily operations.
• Provides real-time problem solving and coordination during programs, including managing schedules, materials, and staff needs.

Administrative and Financial Operations

• Works closely with Steward Observatory financial staff to process purchasing, reimbursements, and payments (e.g., catering, stipends, supplies) in accordance with university policies.
• Tracks program expenses and supports budget monitoring and financial reporting.

Marketing and Recruitment

• Assists with development and distribution of promotional materials, including maintaining the Sky School website and social media accounts to increase program visibility.
• Conducts outreach to prospective schools and partners to support recruitment and enrollment.
• Represents Sky School at virtual and in-person recruitment events, school visits, and community engagement opportunities.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of program creation, coordination, event planning, and logistics management.
• Knowledge of K-12 education or informal science education environments.
• Skill in organization and project coordination with attention to detail.
• Skill in writing and verbal communication across various audiences.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities in a fast-paced environment.

This job posting reflects the general nature and level of work expected of the selected candidate(s). It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The institution reserves the right to amend or update this description as organizational priorities and institutional needs evolve.

• Bachelor's degree in education, natural science, space science, or a related field, or equivalent advanced learning attained
  through professional level experience.
• Minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience, or equivalent combination of education and work experience.

• Master's degree in education, natural science, space science, or closely related field.
• Demonstrated experience in K-12 science and/or outdoor education.
• Demonstrated experience leading groups in outdoor and/or experiential education settings.
• Previous experience using a variety of teaching methods and/or curricular perspectives to respond to the needs of students.
• Experience with local landscapes and general knowledge of natural science topics of the Sky Islands.