Located in the fastest-growing region of the state, the University of North Georgia is a multi-campus university with an enrollment of nearly 20,000 students, making it one of the largest institutions in the University System of Georgia. UNG is focused on a mission of educational excellence, leadership development and community engagement opportunities that develop students into leaders for a diverse and global society. Through a variety of educational pathways that provide access and range from certificates and associate degrees to a professional doctoral program, UNG is responsive to regional education and economic development needs. Federally designated as a senior military college, one of the university's signature leadership programs is its 800-member Corps of Cadets on UNG's Dahlonega Campus.

The University of North Georgia is currently accepting applications for student telescope operators at the North Georgia Astronomical Observatory for Spring and Summer 2023. Telescope operators will assist with public observing and telescope viewing sessions, public outreach events, and UNG student laboratory exercises. 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.

• Telescope operators are expected to 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

• Candidates should have a basic knowledge of bright stars, constellations, planets, and deep sky objects, and be comfortable interacting with community members of all ages.
• An ability to work as part of a larger team is essential.

• Must be enrolled at the University of North Georgia in a minimum of six (6) credit hours to qualify as a student worker.

• Introductory astronomy coursework (ASTR 1010, 1020, or 3150) is preferred.
• Prior experience operating small telescopes is advantageous.

• Resume
• Cover letter

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.

The University of North Georgia, a unit of the University System of Georgia, is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, sex or national origin, age, disability, religion, genetics or veteran status. Georgia is an open records state. Also, UNG is a federal contractor and desires priority referrals of protected veterans.

This role is considered a position of trust.

• Position of Trust