Center Assistant

Under the general supervision of the Center Director, the Planetarium Center Assistant supports the daily operations, guest services, and educational programming of the Planetarium and Museum. The position requires strong communication skills, a customer-service mindset, and the ability to work effectively with visitors of all ages and abilities, including children, school groups, and adults.

The following functions are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work performed.  The omission of specific duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.

Perform opening and closing procedures for the facility.

Welcome visitors, provide excellent customer service, and ensure adherence to safety and facility rules.

Accurately process admissions and gift shop sales transactions.

Support gift shop operations by restocking merchandise, maintaining displays, and pricing items.

Maintain a clean and safe facility, including routine cleaning inside and outside the building.

Assist with programs and activities for children, school groups, and individuals with disabilities, ensuring an inclusive environment.

Operate and monitor Planetarium equipment, present educational shows, and answer visitor questions.

Operate accessibility equipment, such as the handicap lift, and other attractions (e.g., miniature train) as assigned- Must be at least 18 years old to operate either, and a valid driver’s license is required to operate the miniature train.

Demonstrate knowledge of and adherence to all emergency and safety procedures.

Perform other related duties as assigned.

Strong verbal communication and interpersonal skills; comfortable speaking with groups and individuals of all ages. Ability to learn and operate specialized Planetarium equipment. Dependability and punctuality are essential. Commitment to professionalism, teamwork, and respectful interaction with visitors and colleagues. Ability to communicate in both English and Spanish is preferred, but not required. Flexibility to work weekdays, weekends, evenings, and special events. This is a temporary/seasonal position limited to less than 1,000 hours per calendar year.

Must be at least 16 years old to apply.

Must be at least 18 years old to operate the handicap lift or miniature train- This essential function will not be assigned to individuals under the age of 18.

Must have a valid driver’s license to operate the miniature train.

This work requires frequent walking, standing, and speaking; occasional lifting of up to 20 pounds; and the ability to climb ladders when necessary; work includes using hands to finger, handle, or feel, and requires walking up and down stairs; position requires depth perception and adequate hearing for effective communication and safety; work is generally performed in a moderately noisy environment (e.g., planetarium, museum, visitor center, or recreation facility).