Lead, Education Programs; Steward Observatory

Lead, Education Programs (Steward Observatory)

Location:

Tucson Campus, Tucson, AZ USA

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 Sky Center 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 employee and qualified family members
• retirement plans
• access to UA recreation and cultural activities
• and more!

For more information about working at the University of Arizona and relocations services.

Duties & Responsibilities 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…