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Planetarium Manager information

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$28.5K

$62.7K

$113.5K

How much do planetarium manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for planetarium manager in the United States is $62,661.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,000.00 and $69,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Planetarium Manager do?

A Planetarium Manager oversees the daily operations of a planetarium, including managing staff, coordinating educational programs, and maintaining the facility and its equipment. They are responsible for creating engaging astronomy-related shows and events for the public and school groups. Additionally, Planetarium Managers often handle budgeting, marketing, and community outreach to promote science education and awareness.

What are some common challenges faced by a Planetarium Manager and how can they be addressed?

Planetarium Managers often face challenges such as balancing educational programming with public entertainment, maintaining and updating advanced technical equipment, and managing a diverse team of educators, technicians, and support staff. Addressing these challenges involves staying current with astronomy and technology trends, fostering strong communication within the team, and building relationships with schools and community organizations. Additionally, successful managers often seek professional development opportunities and collaborate with other science centers to share best practices and resources.

What is the difference between Planetarium Manager vs Planetarium Technician?

AspectPlanetarium ManagerPlanetarium Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in astronomy, education, or related field; management experienceTechnical diploma or associate degree; technical training in projection systems
Work EnvironmentOversees planetarium operations, staff, and programmingMaintains and operates projection equipment and audiovisual systems
Employer & Industry UsageMuseums, science centers, educational institutionsSimilar settings, focusing on technical system maintenance
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for management rolesFocuses on technical skills and system operation

The main difference between a Planetarium Manager and a Planetarium Technician is that the manager oversees the entire operation, staff, and programming, requiring management skills and a relevant educational background. In contrast, the technician focuses on maintaining and operating projection and audiovisual systems, requiring technical training. Both roles are essential in planetarium settings but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Planetarium Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Planetarium Manager, you need expertise in astronomy or science education, experience in program coordination, and often a degree in physical sciences or education. Familiarity with digital planetarium software, audio-visual systems, and show production tools is typically required. Excellent leadership, public speaking, and organizational skills help you engage audiences and manage staff effectively. These skills ensure engaging educational programs, smooth operations, and a memorable visitor experience.
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What cities are hiring for Planetarium Manager jobs? Cities with the most Planetarium Manager job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Planetarium jobs? The most popular types of Planetarium jobs are:
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Planetarium Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Planetarium Manager job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,661 per year, or $30.1 per hour.
DOME Experience Pilot (Part-time - On-site)

DOME Experience Pilot (Part-time - On-site)

Arizona Science Center

Phoenix, AZ

$18/hr

Part-time

Retirement

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Job Title: DOME Experience Pilot

Company: Arizona Science Center - Dorrance DOME

Location: Phoenix, Arizona

Part-Time, On-Site | 20 hours per week | Pay: $18/hr

Reports to: Director, Dorrance DOME Experiences and Planetarium

ABOUT US

Arizona Science Center, home to the world-class Dorrance DOME, is dedicated to inspiring curiosity, promoting scientific literacy, and fostering lifelong learning. Our mission is to engage and delight visitors of all ages through immersive experiences that explore the wonders of science and technology. As we embark on an exciting journey of renewal, we are seeking a talented DOME Experience Pilot to help create and support a variety of captivating immersive programs in our LED shared reality dome.

Dorrance DOME, powered by Cosm Technology, is equipped with a revolutionary, state-of-the-art LED dome and immersive software for a new era of experiential education and community engagement. As the most advanced planetarium in North America and an early adopter of category-defining immersive technology, the reimagined Dorrance DOME features an 18-meter diameter, CX System LED dome display with 8K+ resolution, making it a global leader in engaging science experiences.

JOB SUMMARY

As a DOME Experience Pilot, you will be a part of the Dorrance DOME team and play a pivotal role in daily theater operations, supporting system maintenance, and supporting the creation of content for Dorrance DOME and other Arizona Science Center offerings as appropriate. Working under the direction of the Director of DOME Experiences, you will support the overall operations of the Dorrance DOME and help execute innovative audiovisual experiences that inspire, educate, and engage diverse audiences through a wide array of scientific, artistic, and creative programs. The ideal candidate is organized, motivated, and proactive to ensure that venue display systems are delivering the most cutting-edge immersive experiences that keep audiences coming back time and again.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Pilot Dorrance DOME shows (start/stop sequences, basic run-of-show procedures, and in-the-moment operational support as assigned) while prioritizing guest comfort, safety, and experience. Typical run-of-show procedures include introducing the show and/or live presenter to the audience on microphone and closing the show on microphone.
  • Ensure a positive guest experience during shows, including welcoming and settling guests, addressing guest needs during the program when appropriate, and supporting smooth exit flow at show conclusion.
  • Work weekday evening and weekend shifts (daytime and evening) based on programming needs, including special events and peak attendance periods.
  • Assist with ticket-taking and Dorrance DOME entry, including line management, directing guests, and supporting accessibility needs as appropriate.
  • Coordinate with management to initiate program blocks, transitions, lighting & audio levels, and run of show.
  • Manage and program in-house cameras, lighting, and audio throughout the venue as necessary.
  • Log, track and report issues across all presentation systems and other theater amenities, such as seats, lights, doors, sound paneling and equipment.
  • Assist in LED module removal and replacement as necessary.
  • Monitor and maintain a variety of theatrical effects, including audio, video, and lighting effects.
  • Assist with supplies setup and preparation for Dorrance DOME events as required (e.g., event materials, signage, stanchions/queue supports, basic pre-show readiness).
  • Assist in maintaining cleanliness and operability of Dorrance DOME physical spaces, including seats, Flight Desk, staff office spaces, and entry/exit hallway areas; report any issues with theater amenities (seating, doors, lighting, LED panels, housekeeping needs, etc.) to management.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

WORK SCHEDULE

This is a non-management, part-time position with a work schedule that will require a varied schedule of hours on site, outside of traditional hours (~50% - early mornings, nights, weekends, holidays) in support of standard operations.

 

QUALIFICATIONS, EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Strong guest service mindset with excellent communication skills.
  • Ability to remain calm, professional, and helpful in busy environments (including low light, high noise, and high guest volume).
  • Reliable, punctual, and able to follow operational procedures and supervisor direction.
  • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and assist with moving/reconfiguring theater seating and event supplies.
  • Passion for science, education, and informal learning, with a commitment to welcoming audiences of all backgrounds.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Prior experience in a museum, theater, live events, attractions, hospitality, or other guest-facing environment.
  • Familiarity with immersive venues, live event flow, and/or basic show operations.
  • Astronomy, marine science, physics or other deep science knowledge is a plus.
  • On-the-job operational, safety, and venue training will be provided.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Arizona Science Center maintains a firm policy of equal employment opportunity for all employees and applicants. We recruit, hire, train, promote, compensate, and dismiss Employees based on such factors as experience, character, ability, and skill, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin or heritage, age, marital or veteran status, disability, citizenship, or any other status protected by federal, state or local law.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the role. The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities, or physical requirements. Nothing in this job description restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

BENEFITS Include, but are not limited to:

  • Sick time
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • 401(k) retirement plan
  • Family membership to Arizona Science Center and 600+ Association of Science and Technology Centers (ASTC)
  • Admission Exchange Program - Year-round complimentary admission for the employee and one guest to visit the Phoenix Zoo, Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix Art Museum, Heard Museum, Arizona Museum of Natural History, etc. 
  • Competitive hourly pay commensurate with experience.
  • Opportunities for professional development and continuing education.
  • Access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources.
  • The chance to be part of a dynamic team shaping the future of informal science education.

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