Job Summary
The University of North Georgia is currently accepting applications for telescope operators at the North Georgia Astronomical Observatory for the summer.
Telescope operators will assist with public observing and telescope viewing sessions and public outreach events. Telescope operators are expected to plan nightly target lists, safely operate the facility's telescopes, and interact with the general public during tours of the facility and night sky.
Responsibilities
- Monitor weather conditions before and during observing sessions.
- Prepare dome rooms for viewing sessions.
- Operate the facility's two state of the art telescopes and fleet of portable telescopes.
- Interact with the general public in the viewing lab and at the telescope.
- Troubleshoot minor problems with the telescope control system.
- Maintain a presentable viewing laboratory.
- Promote laboratory safety to ensure a safe working environment for staff and guests.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
- Have a basic knowledge of bright stars, constellations, planets, and deep sky objects.
- Be comfortable interacting with community members of all ages.
- Ability to work as part of a larger team is essential.
Required Qualifications
High School Diploma / GED required.
Preferred Qualifications
- Introductory astronomy knowledge is preferred.
- Prior experience operating small telescopes is advantageous.
Required Documents to Attach
- Resume
- Cover letter
- Contact information for three professional references.
USG Core Values
The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 26 institutions of higher education and learning as well as the System Office.
Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards.
More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 8.2.18.1.2 and can be found on-line at .
Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 6.5 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom found on-line at .
Institutional Values
The University of North Georgia, a regional multi-campus institution and premier senior military college, provides a culture of academic excellence in a student-focused environment that includes quality education, service, research, and creativity.
This is accomplished through broad access to comprehensive academic and co-curricular programs that develop students into leaders for a diverse and global society.
The University of North Georgia is a University System of Georgia leadership institution and is The Military College of Georgia.
More details on the UNG Mission, Values, Vision, and Culture can be found at
Conditions of Employment
Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of North Georgia, as determined by University of North Georgia in its sole discretion, confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check.
Applicants may be subject to a pre-employment drug test.