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Planetarium Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Power Plant Engineer 3

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$49K - $64K/yr

This position is also responsible for operating generators for the Institute's electrical power in ... Cherokee is the home of the first accredited museum and planetarium in Iowa, Sandford Museum and ...

Anesthesiology Physician

Salem, VA · On-site

$315.25 - $341.25/day

Number of operating rooms: 8 * License required or accepting IMLC: Any unrestricted state license ... The Salem Science Museum and Planetarium offers education fun for the whole family. Fans of the ...

Psychiatrist

Des Moines, IA · Hybrid

$120K - $322K/yr

This is a non-merit position with the Health & Human Services - State Operated Specialty Care ... Cherokee is the home of the first accredited museum and planetarium in Iowa, Sandford Museum and ...

Projectionist

Washington, DC · On-site

$50K - $52K/yr

The theaters include the Lockheed Martin IMAX Theater and Northrup Grumman Planetarium (National ... Must be experienced operating cinema and/or digital dome and theater sound and lighting systems.

Registered Nurse (RN)

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$67K - $98K/yr

The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Division of State-Operated Specialty Care ... Cherokee is the home of the first accredited museum and planetarium in Iowa, Sandford Museum and ...

Cook 1

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$32K - $46K/yr

The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Division of State-Operated Specialty Care ... Cherokee is the home of the first accredited museum and planetarium in Iowa, Sandford Museum and ...

Showing results 21-40

Planetarium Operator information

What does a planetarium operator do?

A Planetarium Operator is responsible for running and maintaining the equipment used to project images of the night sky and astronomical phenomena in a planetarium. They often present educational shows, operate audiovisual technology, and assist visitors with questions about astronomy. Additionally, they may help design programs, schedule events, and ensure the smooth operation of the planetarium’s technical systems. Their role combines technical expertise with public engagement and education.

What are some of the most common challenges faced by planetarium operators during live shows?

Planetarium operators often encounter challenges such as technical glitches with projection equipment, adapting show content for diverse audiences, and managing time constraints between multiple presentations. They must be prepared to troubleshoot issues on the spot while maintaining audience engagement and ensuring safety in a darkened environment. Collaboration with educators, event coordinators, and technical staff is key to delivering seamless and informative experiences.

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

To thrive as a Planetarium Operator, you need a solid background in astronomy or physics, experience with educational programming, and often a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with digital projection systems, planetarium software (like Digistar or Uniview), and audio-visual equipment is typically required. Strong public speaking, customer service, and adaptability help operators engage diverse audiences and handle unexpected situations. These skills ensure engaging, accurate presentations and smooth technical operations for an inspiring visitor experience.

What is the difference between Planetarium Operator vs Astronomer?

AspectPlanetarium OperatorAstronomer
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical training in operating projection and audio-visual equipmentBachelor's degree or higher in astronomy or related field; advanced degrees often required
Work EnvironmentPlanetarium theaters, educational centers, museumsResearch labs, observatories, universities
Industry UsagePublic education, entertainment, science outreachScientific research, academia, data analysis

While both roles involve astronomy, a Planetarium Operator primarily manages projection equipment and educates visitors, whereas an Astronomer conducts research and studies celestial phenomena. The roles differ in credentials, work environment, and industry focus, with the Planetarium Operator focusing on public engagement and the Astronomer on scientific discovery.

How much do planetarium operators make?

Planetarium operators typically earn a median annual salary of around $30,000 to $50,000, depending on experience, location, and the size of the institution. They often require knowledge of projection equipment and astronomy, and may work evenings and weekends to accommodate public shows.

What do you need to work as a planetarium operator?

To work as a planetarium operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, knowledge of astronomy and projection equipment, and experience with audiovisual technology. Strong technical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to operate and troubleshoot projection systems are essential. Some positions may require training or certification in audiovisual or technical fields.
More about Planetarium Operator jobs

Who are the top companies hiring for Planetarium Operator jobs?

The top employers for Planetarium Operator jobs are:

Infographic showing various Planetarium Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 38% Full Time, 60% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Power Plant Engineer 3

State of Iowa

Des Moines, IA • On-site

$49K - $64K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago


State Of Iowa rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 87 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 50 rated states


Job description

Job Description The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Division of State-Operated Specialty Care, Bureau of Cherokee Mental Health Institute (CMHI) is seeking a Power Plant Engineer 3 to join our team. This is a full-time position with a Tuesday - Friday, 6:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m

schedule. The Power Plant Engineer 3 diagnoses problems relating to equipment malfunctions, makes mechanical, electrical, and plumbing repairs to power plant equipment and auxiliary systems, and operates and maintains boilers that support the Cherokee campus. This position is also responsible for operating generators for the Institute's electrical power in the event of loss of utilities and helping with grounds maintenance including snow removal.

The successful candidate will have knowledge of HVAC and plumbing systems. Applicants will be required to complete a background check to be considered for this position. CMHI provides active inpatient treatment to adults in need of acute psychiatric care.

The facility offers several services includingindividualized treatment plans. Support for patients with special education needs to continue their education is provided, and individuals are encouraged to collaborate with staff members in formulating their own plan. Medication, group counseling, and activities therapies might be included as well.

For more CMHI info: https://hhs.iowa.gov/family-community/specialty-care-facilities/cherokee-mental-health-institute Benefits of Joining CMHI Working for the State of Iowa comes with its perks. In addition to a competitive salary, you'll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and professional growth. Health, Dental, and Vision Coverage: Health and dental insurance packages to keep you and your family healthy at a low cost with outstanding coverage

Paid Time Off: Take time to recharge with paid time off, including vacation(96 hours/year to begin, increasing with years of service), sick leave (144 hours/year), and paid holidays (9 days/year). Retirement Plans: Participate in retirement plans such as IPERS (employees contribute 6.29% and the State of Iowa contributes 9.44%) as well as our Retirement Investors Club (RIC), Employer Sponsored Retirement Plan (the State of Iowa matches dollar for dollar up to $75/month). Flexible Spending Accounts: Take advantage of flexible spending accounts for medical and dependent care expenses

Insurance Coverage: Benefit from life insurance and free long-term disability insurance for added peace of mind. Employee Assistance Program: Access resources and support through our Employee Assistance Program for personal and professional challenges. Employee Discount Programs: Enjoy discounts on a variety of goods and services through our employee discount programs.

For additional information on benefits click here. Click here to see how we compare with other employers or offers by using our Total Compensation Calculator. Cherokee Highlights CMHI is located in Cherokee, a city of approximately 5,000 set in the beautiful Little Sioux River Valley in Northwest Iowa.

Residents enjoy fishing and canoeing on the Little Sioux River which winds through town providing a backdrop to a well-developed parks and trails system. In addition, Cherokee has over 1,000 acres of land devoted to parks and outdoor activities like camping, hiking, and horseback riding. Cherokee is the home of the first accredited museum and planetarium in Iowa, Sandford Museum and Planetarium, established in 1951.

Cherokee may be the smallest town in the world to have its own symphony orchestra. This 60-member orchestra has been referred to as the "best kept secret in Northwest Iowa." Cherokee is home to Western Iowa Tech Community College and 1 hour or less from other educational institutions including Morningside College, Northwestern College, Buena Vista University, and Dordt College. This quintessential Iowa town is 1 hour from Sioux City and 2 hours from Omaha

Check out these 10 Reasons to Move to Iowa. The State of Iowa is an EEO/AA Employer HHS values those with "lived experience" and encourages adults who were fostered as youth, foster parents, and/or parents who were in the HHS system to apply. Minorities, women, persons with disabilities and veterans are encouraged to apply (Hearing and Speech Impaired - Relay Iowa 1-800-735-2942 TDD).

E-Verify and Right to Work The State of Iowa participates in E-Verify, a federal program that helps employers confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. Within the required timeframe, new hires will be verified through the E-Verify system to ensure authorization to work in the United States. The State of Iowa also complies with the federal Right to Work laws, which protect employees' rights to work without being required to join a labor organization.

For more information, please visit www.e-verify.gov. Minimum Qualification Requirements Experience equal to three years of full-time work in the operation, maintenance and repair of steam generating boilers, centralized air-conditioning or electrical power generating equipment and auxiliary systems; OR an equivalent combination of education and experience, substituting 30 semester hours of accredited coursework from a military school or recognized trade or vocational school in power plant engineering principles including the operation, maintenance and repair of steam boilers for each year of the required experience to a maximum substitution of one year; OR employees with current continuous experience in the state Executive Branch that includes experience equal to one year of full-time experience as a Power Plant Engineer 2. For additional information, please click on this link to view the job description

Additional Qualification Requirements Within a period of time as determined by the appointing authority, certain employees in this class may be required to obtain a Fire Sprinkler Installer and Maintenance License in accordance with Chapter 100D, Iowa Code. Designated positions in this job class require applicants to obtain the required certification, license and endorsements within a period of time as determined by the appointing authority at the time of hire.


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About State of Iowa

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The State of Iowa is not a company but the governmental structure of the U.S. state of Iowa, stationed in the capital city, Des Moines. The official website, iowa.gov, is a platform dedicated to providing information and services related to the state's governance. As a governmental establishment, the State of Iowa's 'industry' primarily involves social governance, policy-making, and public administration, overseeing sectors like education, health, transportation, agriculture, and other public services.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Des Moines, IA, US

Year founded

1939