Closing Date: 9/20/2026 11:59 PM EST

Salary: $49,184 to $63,997

Employment Type: Full Time, non-exempt 

Hiring Organization: Cape Fear Museum of History and Science 

Planetarium Operations and Technology

• Independently operates planetarium equipment and software; develops and leads both full-dome video and live planetarium shows to schools, groups, and general visitors, including coding buttons and show elements in the Digistar software.
• Maintains and troubleshoots planetarium equipment and software — especially when working independently — ensuring planetarium shows and programs are available 7 days a week during all operating hours.
• Modifies programs to reflect the content needs of the audience and the current night sky and astronomy events.

Educational Programming and Curriculum Development

• Designs, develops, and implements curriculum-based educational programs and events in astronomy, history, science, or multi-disciplines for school audiences in accordance with NC standards, and public programs and events for all ages, in conjunction with the Museum Education Team; develops effective pre- and post-visit materials, evaluations, and program kits.
• Researches and maintains content knowledge for all Museum programs and exhibits; teaches as needed.
• Assists with researching and writing grants for educational programs.

Scheduling, Volunteers, and Resources

• Develops program and planetarium calendars and coordinates program, planetarium, and teaching schedules with colleagues and the Museum Manager.
• Provides direction to volunteer "ushers" during planetarium programs and assists in training and overseeing them as needed, in coordination with the Museum Manager and Volunteer Coordinator.
• Purchases, organizes, and maintains planetarium components, educational materials, teaching kits, and supplies assigned to education staff; ensures their proper availability, storage, and safety.

Museum Teams and Community Engagement

• Participates in general Education Team and Museum meetings; meets weekly with the Planetarium Supervisor to ensure a smooth, consistent 7-day-a-week operation.
• Works with education and exhibit teams to design, plan, fabricate, and install museum exhibits, incorporating best practices of museum interpretation, especially when related to astronomy or similar disciplines.
• Represents the Museum at community organizations and builds connections with other Museum professionals and key community contacts to strengthen core knowledge and skills and apply to Museum planning. 
• Assists with the promotion of programs and events through content development, video creation, and networking.

Departmental and General Responsibilities

• Manages public operations of department on a rotating basis; opens and closes facility; responds to customer, facility, and/or security issues that arise. 
• Assists with department budget. 
• Completes regular training in planetarium equipment and in program content and delivery; attends annual mandatory trainings. 
• Performs work during emergency/disaster situations. 
• Performs other duties as assigned that support the overall objective of the position.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, OR ABILITIES

• Knowledge of educational programming principles, learning standards, teaching techniques, and museum best practices
• Knowledge of astronomy, physics, and/or other science and history subjects
• Knowledge of planetarium projector hardware and software systems (specifically Digistar), computers, and application software
• Coding and scripting skills sufficient to create, modify, and troubleshoot planetarium content
• Video editing skills
• Skill in verbal and written communication, including interpersonal skills as applied to interaction with the general public, coworkers, supervisor, etc.
• Skill in research and in the writing of educational materials
• Skill in the development of programs targeted for specific groups and audiences
• Skill in the training and supervision of volunteers
• Skill in the scheduling and coordination of events
• Skill in the operation of standard office equipment
• Skill in the organization and prioritization of work assignments
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships

For more information and to apply click the link below....

https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/nhc/jobs/5471860/museum-planetarium-educator