Astronomy Interpreter Volunteer

Introduction

Astronomy is one of the oldest sciences and it is a part of every culture’s history and roots. With some of the clearest and darkest night sky viewing, Haleakal? National Park is in a unique position to offer night sky programs. The park is seeking qualified volunteers to develop a public astronomy program. Help us inspire awe in our visitors!

The astronomy interpreter volunteer will set up and operate park-owned telescope(s) to provide formal and informal interpretation to park visitors about the day and night sky. Volunteers will also provide visitor information and informal interpretation by staffing park visitor centers.

This full time (40 hours per week) volunteer position runs from March 15, 2020 to May 29, 2021. Beginning and ending dates are somewhat flexible however all volunteers will need to make a 3 month commitment.  Terms and training sessions in 2020 begin: March, June, and September.

Major Duties

• Actively participate in a safe workplace culture.
• Observe and relay park rules and regulations.
• Use telescope(s) to show park visitors astronomical objects.
• Accurately interpret the day and/or night sky.
• Promote the benefits of night sky preservation and light pollution reduction (astronomy, ecology, health, economics, cultural identity, etc.)
• Answer visitor questions and provide informal interpretation at the visitor center and other areas of interest in the park.
• Staff the visitor center in sunset and evening shifts.
• Record your volunteer hours and the number of visitors contacted each shift worked.
• Protect the equipment by telescope etiquette “refreshers” and polite but firm correction when visitors are not demonstrating good etiquette.

Other Duties: Staff visitor centers, and potential opproutnies to offer formal interpretive programs on geology, Hawaiian culture, Orientation Talks, Natural Resource talks, and create social media posts

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required

• Ability to work independently with little or no supervision and as part of a diverse team for extended periods of time.
• Ability to maintain a positive attitude in a group setting for extended periods of time.
• Knowledge of astronomy.
• Ability to prepare and lead constellation tours and operate a telescope.
• Knowledge of Hawaiian Cultural concepts, especially night sky use is desirable.
• Ability to make data like galactic diameters, distance in light years relevant with analogies or in-depth explanations. Ability to meet the needs of diverse audiences.
• Ability to work in low-light conditions.
• Public speaking experience.
• Ability to pass a background check.
• Valid State Driver’s License.

Physical Demands

Duties require sitting or standing for extended periods of time. 

Work will be performed at high altitude; those with respiratory or heart conditions should consult with their doctor prior to travelling to high elevations (7,000-10,000 feet).

Orientation

Volunteers will have an orientation to the National Park Service mission, goals and procedures, volunteer-in-parks program operations. Trainings provided: CPR and First Aid, use of park radios, and interpretive skills training.

Work Environment

Work is performed indoors and outdoors. Haleakal? Summit is at 10,000 foot elevation and weather is notoriously unpredictable. Year round summit temperatures range between below freezing to highs of 50-65 degrees Fahrenheit.  Wind chill and damp, overcast conditions can make outside temperatures feel much colder.

Work Schedule

• Work will be performed both during the day and at night.
• Schedule will be agreed upon between the volunteer and the volunteer supervisor. Volunteers should expect to work weekends and holidays.
• Volunteer will notify the volunteer supervisor of planned absences within a reasonable amount of time, usually not less than one week, or as soon as possible when the volunteer cannot be available to perform scheduled duties due to sickness or other reasons.

Uniform

While on duty, the volunteer will wear a NPS volunteer shirt and name tag (provided). A ball cap will be provided for outdoor use. In cases of inclement weather, a NPS volunteer jacket will be worn. The volunteer will provide and wear his/her own tan or khaki pants/shorts. Close-toed shoes must be worn. As a representative of the NPS, the volunteer should look professional and be clean.

Government Vehicles & Property / Personal Equipment

• The volunteer may drive government vehicles after providing a valid driver’s license, signing a driver’s self-certification form and viewing a defensive driving video on DOI talent.
• Volunteer will be using park owned astronomy equipment.

Reimbursement

Volunteer may be provided with a daily meal reimbursement up to $25 per 8 hours worked for full time (40 hour per week) volunteers. Receipts must be provided.