Operations Coordinator

Operations Coordinator, IS-0301-11

Final date to receive applications: 30 June 2026

Department: Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory

Employment Type: Temporary

Location: Amado, AZ

Compensation: $76,095 - $98,928 / year

Opening Date: June 1, 2026

Closing Date: June 30, 2026

Series/Grade: IS-0301-11

Type of Position: Trust Temporary (Non-Federal), not to exceed June 15, 2027, with possibility of extension for an additional year.

Division: Director's Office

Location: Amado, AZ

Area of Consideration: This position is open to all eligible candidates.

SAO is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position. While this position is classified as remote, the incumbent must reside in Arizona to provide firsthand oversight of the program's storage facilities and shipping hubs. Salary will be based on the locality where the selected applicant resides.

What are Trust Fund Positions?

Trust Fund positions are unique to the Smithsonian. They are paid for from a variety of sources, including the Smithsonian endowment, revenue from our business activities, donations, grants and contracts. Trust employees are not part of the civil service, nor does trust fund employment lead to Federal status. The salary ranges for trust positions are generally the same as for federal positions and in many cases trust and federal employees work side by side.

Trust employees have their own benefit program, which may include Health, Dental & Vision Insurance, Life Insurance, Transit/Commuter Benefits, Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance, Annual and Sick Leave, Family Friendly Leave, 403b Retirement Plan, Discounts for Smithsonian Memberships, Museum Stores and Restaurants, Credit Union, Flexible Spending Account (Health & Dependent Care).

• Pass Pre-employment Background Check and Subsequent Background Investigation, as required.
• Complete a Probationary Period if applicable.
• Maintain a Bank Account for Direct Deposit/Electronic Transfer.
• The position is open to all candidates eligible to work in the United States. Proof of eligibility to work in U.S. is not required to apply.
• Applicants must meet all qualification and eligibility requirements within 30 days of the closing date of this announcement.

INTRODUCTION

The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory (SAO) is at the forefront, internationally, of the scientific exploration of the universe. SAO combines its resources with those of the Harvard College Observatory to form the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics (CfA). The CfA is the best-known astrophysics center in the world. Its programs range from ground-based astronomy and astrophysics research to space-based research, the engineering and development of major scientific instrumentation for space launch and use in large ground-based facilities, and research designed to improve science education.

The research objectives of SAO are carried out primarily with the support of Government and Smithsonian Institution funds, with additional philanthropic support. Government funds are in the form of Federal appropriations or the form of contracts and grants from other agencies. In contrast, Institution funds are available to SAO through grants from the Institution's Restricted Funds, Special Purpose Funds, Bureau Activities, Business Activities, and non-Federal contracts and grants.

The STARS program, an initiative of the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory’s Center for Astrophysics, delivers telescopes, firsthand STEM curricula, and professional development to rural and tribal schools across the U.S. By bridging gaps in science education, STARS empowers students and teachers with the tools and knowledge needed to explore the universe and develop critical thinking skills. Our mission is to inspire the next generation of scientists through experiential learning opportunities.

The program is launching in Arizona and will expand across the country as time and funding allows.

Summary: The purpose of this position is to provide oversight and personnel management to deliver the program across the state of Arizona. This role is vital in maintaining the operational integrity and reporting…