Night Sky VIP

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The Night Sky VIP is responsible for assisting Park Rangers in all aspects of the night sky presentations including set up and tear down of night sky equipment (telescopes, red lights, safety cones) as well as assisting Park Rangers in delivering engaging and informative night sky presentations to visitors of the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument. The VIP will assist the Park Ranger to guide participants in observing celestial objects, explaining astronomical phenomena, and fostering an appreciation for dark skies. Programs will take place at two locations: the Gila Cliff Dwellings and the visitor center parking lot. The VIP must ensure the safety of all participants by managing hazards related to nighttime outdoor activities.

Primary Duties:

• Assist with set up and break down of telescopes, lights, safety cones, and all aspects of the night sky program.
• Set up and operate telescopes, laser pointers, and other equipment for celestial observation.
• Provide clear instructions on the safe use of equipment, including handling of telescopes and the use of laser pointers.
• Assist with night sky observation programs, including talks about astronomy, constellations, planets, and the importance of dark skies.
• Safely guide participants along the trail to the Gila Cliff Dwellings or in the visitor center parking lot for stargazing, ensuring all safety protocols are followed.
• Monitor the group to ensure participants stay within safe areas, particularly around cliff edges or uneven ground.
• Conduct pre-program walk-throughs of the site to identify potential hazards and set up necessary safety barriers.
• Engage participants by answering questions, offering fun facts, and sharing stories about the night sky.
• Deliver safety briefings to participants, emphasizing wildlife precautions, uneven terrain, and the importance of staying hydrated and warm.
• Monitor weather conditions and make real-time decisions to postpone or cancel programs if conditions become hazardous.
• Maintain communication with park rangers and other staff in case of emergencies or wildlife encounters.

Required Skills and Qualifications:

• Strong public speaking skills and the ability to engage and educate a diverse group of visitors.
• Basic knowledge of astronomy and enthusiasm for sharing information about the night sky and dark sky conservation.
• Experience assisting with outdoor activities, particularly in remote or low-light environments.
• Ability to assess and manage risks associated with nighttime programs, including wildlife hazards and uneven terrain.
• Comfort in using and troubleshooting telescopes, laser pointers, and other astronomy-related equipment.
• Ability to maintain composure in emergencies and communicate effectively with park rangers or emergency personnel.
• Strong organizational skills, including the ability to manage group dynamics and ensure participant safety.

Physical Requirements:

• Must be able to walk on uneven or steep terrain, in low-light conditions, while carrying equipment.
• Must be able to lift and carry telescopes and other equipment (up to 50lbs) to set up and break down programs.
• Must be comfortable working outdoors in various weather conditions, including cold temperatures.

Work Environment:

• Programs will take place at both the Gila Cliff Dwellings and the visitor center parking lot, at night and in low-light conditions.
• The terrain around the Gila Cliff Dwellings is rocky, uneven, and can be steep. Wildlife may be present during programs.
• The Night Sky VIP will be exposed to the elements including cold temperatures and potentially precipitation.

Start Date - 2025-05-01

End Date - 2025-05-31