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Planetarium Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Program Assistant

River Grove, IL ยท On-site

$18.50/hr

Collaborate with the Director in the development and production of new or special audio-visual content for the Cernan Earth and Space Center. * Assist with general monitoring of planetarium equipment ...

Program Assistant

River Grove, IL ยท On-site

$18.50/hr

Collaborate with the Director in the development and production of new or special audio-visual content for the Cernan Earth and Space Center. * Assist with general monitoring of planetarium equipment ...

CA ยท On-site

The Planetarium seats 46 under a 24-foot diameter dome, with a Spitz SciDome digital planetarium projection system. The rooftop Observatory houses a Celestron 16-inch diameter, computer-controlled ...

These include programs in the Museums planetarium and tours in Hawaiian Hall. * Work with tour operators and travel agents to schedule and accommodate tour groups. Maintain tour records. Answer calls ...

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How much do planetarium jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for planetarium in the United States is $17.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $21.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Planetarium job?

A planetarium job typically involves working in an educational facility that presents astronomy and space science programs to the public. Roles can include planetarium educators, technicians, or directors who operate projection equipment, create presentations, and guide audiences through celestial events. Responsibilities may also include developing educational content, maintaining planetarium systems, and collaborating with schools and organizations to promote science education. Many positions require knowledge of astronomy, multimedia technology, and public speaking skills.

What are the typical daily responsibilities for someone working at a planetarium?

Daily responsibilities at a planetarium often include developing and presenting educational shows, maintaining and operating projection equipment, and assisting with school groups or public outreach events. You may also contribute to exhibit design, answer visitor questions about astronomy, and collaborate with fellow educators or technical staff to coordinate programming. Depending on the institution, there may be opportunities to participate in community events, manage social media or marketing, and create new learning materials. The role is dynamic, combining science education with technology and public engagement, offering variety and ongoing learning opportunities.

What do you need to work at a planetarium?

To work at a planetarium, typically a background in astronomy, education, or related fields is preferred. Strong communication skills, experience with presentation tools, and sometimes a degree or certification in astronomy or education are beneficial. Customer service skills and the ability to work evenings or weekends are also often required.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

In the context of a planetarium or related fields, high-paying roles such as senior astrophysicists, research directors, or executive-level positions in science organizations can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, often requiring advanced degrees, extensive experience, and leadership responsibilities. These roles are typically found in academia, government agencies, or private research firms and may involve managing teams, securing funding, or overseeing large projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Planetarium position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a planetarium professional, you need a solid background in astronomy or science education, strong presentation skills, and familiarity with educational programming. Experience with digital projection systems, planetarium software, and AV technology is highly valuable, along with relevant certifications or training in science communication. Outstanding customer service, adaptability, and the ability to engage diverse audiences are important soft skills in this field. These qualifications ensure that presentations are both scientifically accurate and engaging, enhancing the overall visitor experience.

Is astronomer a high paying job?

Astronomers typically earn a median annual salary of around $100,000, but salaries can vary based on experience, education, and location. The role often requires advanced degrees and research skills, and positions in academia or research institutions may have different pay scales.

How to get a job in an observatory?

To work at an observatory, candidates typically need a background in astronomy, physics, or related sciences, often requiring a bachelor's degree or higher. Relevant skills include experience with telescopes, data analysis, and computer programming, along with strong problem-solving abilities. Gaining experience through internships, volunteering, or research projects can improve employment prospects in this field.
More about Planetarium jobs
What cities are hiring for Planetarium jobs? Cities with the most Planetarium job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Planetarium jobs? The most popular types of Planetarium jobs are:
What states have the most Planetarium jobs? States with the most job openings for Planetarium jobs include:
Infographic showing various Planetarium job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,487 per year, or $17.5 per hour.
Planetarium Manager/Lead Space Science Educator: Full-Time

Planetarium Manager/Lead Space Science Educator: Full-Time

Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI)

Tampa, FL โ€ข On-site

$42K - $55K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Position: Planetarium Manager/Lead Space Science Educator: Full-Time

Employer: Museum Of Science and Innovation (MOSI)

Department: Education

Reports to: Planetarium Director/Assoc. Director of Education

Schedule: Tuesday-Saturday generally; some evenings required

Salary Range: $42,000-$55,000/Annually

FLSA STATUS: Exempt

SUMMARY:

MOSI is dedicated to hands-on learning in science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics (STEAM). MOSI has more than 100 exciting exhibits along the museum floor, Science Park, and the backwoods trails for our guests to explore. This position will be an operator, content provider and a technical contact for MOSI's Digistar 7-full Dome projection system. This position assists with planning, management and supervision for all astronomy and Dome related programs. Programming and maintenance of this system is essential for its successful operation. Manages the physical Dome space, ensuring facility is in proper working order, working with education staff, third-party providers, and the Museum's IT and Facilities departments. This position advises on the selection of Giant Screen Films & Planetarium Shows, and with the Associate Director of Education, to implement programming such as Science After Dark, SkyWatch & Laser Light Shows.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  1. Performance Management
  • Assist in coordination of training and efforts of The Dome theater staff and astronomy educators.
  • Assist in supervision of the Dome staff following the requirements of the performance planning and evaluation system.
  • Provide all department specific training and safety training on a timely basis to ensure the expected level of customer service delivery and staff safety.
  • Strategically cross-train employees to ensure that staff knowledge of specialized areas are enhanced.
  • Present live and pre-packaged astronomy programs for a variety of audiences.
  1. Digistar and SkyLaze System Management
  • Assist with the operation and technical ownership of a multi-projector, multi-computer full Dome presentation system.
  • Perform regular maintenance and troubleshooting on system hardware and software to ensure proper operation.
  • Engage in communication as directed with the Director of IT and the Director of Education occurs regarding issues and needs.
  • Coordinate media content creation and delivery on owned multimedia systems including the Digistar fulldome system.
  • Create original content for The Dome's fulldome system using Digistar production features, Adobe media production software, and still/video cameras.
  • Manage the library of fulldome video content on the Digistar system, including encoding and installing new video content.
  • Coordinate with internal stakeholders and external distributors/producers to license new fulldome video content.
  • Ensure compliance with terms of fulldome show licenses.

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent education training and experience in physics, Earth or space science.
  • Experience in K-12 education required and experience in informal science education preferred.
  • Experience in a science center or similar environment with a Digistar system.
  • General AV and technical skills and proficiency with multimedia equipment.
  • Pass a background check and drug screening.
  • Ability to work effectively with a team.
  • Comfortable working with children and families.

COMPETENCIES:

  • ELICIT-Embodies MOSI's values of Enjoyment, Learning, Impact, Collaboration, Innovation, and Trust; Exudes enthusiasm and creativity; Exhibits sharp critical thinking skills with an openness to diverse opinions and respectful discourse; Practices continuous respect, professionalism, intellectual honesty, integrity, and ethical conduct.
  • Visionary Leadership--Displays passion and optimism; Inspires respect and trust; mobilizes others to fulfill the vision; Provides vision and inspiration to peers and subordinates.
  • Planning/Organizing--Prioritizes and plans work activities; Uses time efficiently; Plans for additional resources; Sets goals and objectives; Organizes or schedules other people and their tasks; Develops realistic action plans.
  • Customer Service-Manages difficult or emotional customer situations; Responds promptly to customer needs; Solicits customer feedback to improve service; Responds to requests for service and assistance; Meets commitments.
  • Interpersonal Skills--Focuses on solving conflict, not blaming; Maintains confidentiality; Listens to others without interrupting; Keeps emotions under control; Remains open to others' ideas and tries new things.
  • Oral Communication--Speaks clearly and persuasively in positive or negative situations; listens and gets clarification; Responds well to questions; Demonstrates group presentation skills; Participates in meetings.
  • Safety and Security--Observes safety and security procedures; Determines appropriate action beyond guidelines; Reports potentially unsafe conditions; Uses equipment and materials properly.
  • Adaptability--Adapts to changes in the work environment; Manages competing demands; Changes approach or method to best fit the situation; Able to deal with frequent change, delays, or unexpected events.
  • Attendance/Punctuality--Is consistently at work and on time; Ensures work responsibilities are covered when absent; Arrives at meetings and appointments on time.
  • Initiative--Volunteers readily; Undertakes self-development activities; Seeks increased responsibilities; Takes independent actions and calculated risks; Looks for and takes advantage of opportunities; Asks for and offers help when needed.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT:

  • Frequently required to stand and walk.
  • Occasionally lift/push/carry items up to 25 pounds.
  • Frequently required to talk and hear.
  • Occasionally required to climb, balance, bend, stoop, kneel or crawl.
  • Frequently required to be around or near loud noises.

MOSI is open 363 days a year. Employees may be required to work some holidays.

Benefits

MOSI offers a robust and comprehensive benefit package plan to full time employees. Benefits begin on the first day of the month following 60 days and include:

Health, Vision, Dental, Short term disability, Long term disability, Life insurance

Basic plans of each category are at no cost to the employee. Other employee options of coverage available as well as dependent coverage paid via payroll deduction.

Optional Insurance

A range of plans including Group Accident, Critical Illness, and Hospital Indemnity are available.

401(k) Retirement Plan

MOSI wants to help employees save for retirement. After six months of service, MOSI will contribute 3% of your salary to the plan and will match your employee contribution up to 4%.

MOSI Membership

Complimentary annual family membership

Local Memberships

Complimentary annual family membership to Florida Aquarium, Glazier Children's Museum, and ZooTampa at Lowry Park

Attraction Share

MOSI participates in the program through the Florida Attraction Association, which allows MOSI employees and their guests (up to 3) entrance free of charge or at a considerable discount, to the top attractions in Florida. More information is available: https://attractionshare.showare.com/

MOSI is open 363 days a year. Employee may be required to work some special events, which may fall on holidays, evenings, and/or weekends.