The James S. McDonnell Planetarium at the Saint Louis Science Center is looking for both permanent full-time and permanent part-time educators to provide live shows in the Planetarium and to run programs with visitors when not in the dome. The James S. McDonnell Planetarium at the Saint Louis Science Center has been the gateway to the stars for 55 years! The Planetarium is home to live, interactive Planetarium Shows and so much more! With the Mercury and Gemini Spacecraft, visitors learn about Saint Louis’ influence on the history of the Space Race in the Liftoff Gallery. In Mission: Mars they drive and design rovers to learn about the future of space exploration. The McDonnell Planetarium creates awe moments every day, and it needs you to help it fulfil the Science Center’s mission!

Responsibilities

• Planetarium Shows: Learn how to control the UNIVERSARIUM and work with the team to make our lives, interactive shows your own. Once they are perfected, you’ll get to bring the universe to our audiences in the largest horizontal dome in the Americas!
• Floor Presence: Engage with our audiences (families, schools, general public) one-on-one outside the dome to bring science to life! Deliver roving demonstrations to guests as well as work floor interactive experiences in the Planetarium, Mission: Mars, and more.
• Program Development: Research and develop Planetarium Shows, gallery programs and educational activates pertaining to Space Sciences and ensure they align education standards.
• Daily Operations: Assist with daily operations of the McDonnell Planetarium including opening and closing procedures. Also involved in assisting with new staff and volunteer orientation.
• Cross Training: Learn the Ins and Outs of the other galleries for opportunities beyond the Planetarium!
• Physical Demands: It is required that you have good physical stamina so you can be on your feet most of the day. We also ask that you can lift up to 40 pounds. Due to the nature of this position, standard (with correction) hearing and day/night vision are also required.
• Flexible Schedule: We host a variety of programs, some outside of museum hours (9:00 am-5:30 pm) a flexible schedule is required to accommodate our needs. This position requires availability during weekends, evenings, holidays and the Science Center’s busiest times. Staff should expect 40 hours per week.

Qualifications

• Self-starter and lifelong learner who can think on their toes.
• Excellent communications and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to interact effectively with audiences of diverse ages and backgrounds.
• Capacity to work as part of a team with flexibility, creativity and enthusiasm.
• Planetarium, theater and/or public speaking experience is preferred.
• BA or BS degree in STEM, education, museum studies or other related fields required.
• Practical experience in planetaria science education and background in Astronomy or it's subdisciplines required.
• Familiarity with interpretation best practices preferred.
• 2-3 years of experience in a museum or with public engagement preferred.
• Program development portfolio or STEM curriculum experience preferred.
• Familiarity with ZEISS planetarium systems is a plus but not required.

Find more information and apply to this job posting for a planetarium educator at the official website.