This position also requires an understanding of the unique workings of the Observatory and an unfailing dedication to teamwork and a willingness to adapt to different situations.
Communication within and outside the Vanderbilt community is an essential responsibility of the position, and as such, should reflect Vanderbilt's values of quality education and a welcoming environment for all members of Nashville's diverse community. Training will be provided to Field Trip Educators to ensure they are prepared to assist visitors. Dyer Observatory’s field trip program runs 9:00am-4:00pm weekdays and is subject to availability based on other observatory events/functions. The Filed Trip Educator would need to be available for a period of 3-4 hours on days when field trips are hosted. Dyer’s field trip season is typically January-November with some weeks having no scheduled programs.
Applications require both a cover letter and resume
About the Work Unit:
Vanderbilt Dyer Observatory’s mission is to inspire public interest in science, technology, engineering, math and astronomy through community events, student outreach, and educational resources. The Observatory is an inholding within the boundaries of Radnor Lake State Park and is home to the historic Seyfert Telescope. The facility provides a variety of STEM educational opportunities and summer science camps. It also hosts teacher workshops, lectures, field trips, celestial viewings, and general tours to achieve its overarching mission to bring the excitement of astronomy and physics to students and the public throughout the middle TN region. Public events such as Bluebird on the Mountain concerts and private rental events also make use of this unique property.
Key Functions and Expected Performance:
Lead tours of the observatory that provide information about the history of Dyer Observatory, discuss and operate the Seyfert Telescope, and highlight the observatory’s exhibits. Training will be provided. Properly operate the Seyfert Telescope and locate celestial objects with it. Training on telescope operation will be provided. Properly operate the Dyer’s solar telescope from setup to shutdown. Training on telescope operation will be provided. During school field trips, assist with or lead specific activities as selected by teachers. Once accustomed to field trip activities, the field trip assistant will lead entire field trips (observatory director will serve as a backup in the event issues arise). Training/background information will be provided regarding activities/observatory exhibits/telescopes. May assist with setup and teardown of equipment/materials, which usually requires preparation to begin an hour before group arrival and approximately an hour after departure.
Supervisory Relationships:
Reports to the Observatory Director
Education and Certifications:
Bachelor’s degree is preferredExperience and Skills:
Good people and verbal communication skills are necessary. A desire to engage in-person with persons of all ages, and a strong ability to effectively communicate to members of a diverse audience is necessary. Experience with educating minors ages 8 and above is preferred. A background in astronomy and familiarity of the night sky is strongly preferred. A passion to expand one’s knowledge base in the various fields of the science is necessary. Ability to lift 50lbs is necessary (Due to the size and weight of the Seyfert Telescope, telescope operators to be physically adept in order to be able to move it by hand. Note that the Seyfert Telescope is located on the second floor of Dyer Observatory and is only accessible via 20 steps. Note that the telescope domes are not temperature controlled (e.g., freezing temperatures can be expected in the winter while at the telescope)). AED training and certification is preferred.