Planetarium Specialist

Planetarium Specialist Category:

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McAuliffe Center Locations:

Framingham, MA Posted:

Apr 13, 2026

Closes:

Open Until Filled Type:

Part-time Salary Type:

Hourly Salary Range:

$22.00 - $25.00

Position ID:

199431

Share About Framingham State University:

Framingham State University was founded in 1839 for a singular purpose - to meet a public need and promote the public good. At our founding as the nation's first public normal school, that need was for comprehensively educated public school teachers who would, in turn, promote an educated citizenry. FSU continues to offer exceptional teacher education programs, and while we are proud of our roots as a teachers' college, we have grown far beyond them. Public need continues to evolve, and FSU right along with it. Our students and alumni are making waves in the fashion industry, designing nutrition plans for professional athletes, writing for major media and news organizations, working for Fortune 500 companies right here in Framingham, and so much more. FSU is a proudly public and truly transformative institution offering accessible, affordable educational opportunities that integrate an academically challenging liberal arts education with workforce preparation programs in a highly personalized teaching environment. Our programs have expanded, but our purpose and commitment to public education for the public good remain steadfast. FSU currently enrolls about 3,000 undergraduate and 1,200 graduate and professional students, offers 60 undergraduate and graduate programs in the arts and humanities, behavioral and social sciences, and professional fields, and enrolls 48% BIPOC students and 54% first-generation college students in our undergraduate programs. We are deeply committed to inclusive excellence and strive to promote a culture of equity and antiracism. This commitment has earned FSU eight Insight Into Academia Higher Education Excellence and Distinction (HEED) Awards and led to our recognition in the Great Colleges to Work For program. We encourage applications from those who share our commitment to promoting a diverse, welcoming, and inclusive community. FSU is ideally situated between Boston and Worcester on land originally stewarded by the Nipmuc people for thousands of years. FSU and the surrounding area are steeped in history, achievement, and innovation, and provide access to urban hotspots, verdant landscapes, natural and cultural amenities, and diverse communities. Our founding motto, LIVE TO THE TRUTH, was said at the end of each class by beloved first principal, Cyrus Peirce, who sought to discover and teach "truth in theory and principle...truth in spirit and motive...truth in manner and form...truth intellectual and truth moral." Early leaders found this motto "speaks of sincerity of spirit...of intensity of effort, of resolution to succeed, of joy in achievement."

LIVE TO THE TRUTH

aptly reflects our past and our pledge for the future as it continues to guide our institution in practice and endeavor. If you share in this quest for truth and a commitment to living it fully, make the next chapter of your career the best chapter at Framingham State University. Learn more about our career opportunities at www.framingham.edu/careers .

Job Description:

GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES

The Planetarium Specialist is a critical staff member of FSU's McAuliffe Simulation Laboratory. The McAuliffe Simulation Laboratory consists of a state-of-the-art digital planetarium - known for its live astronomy shows, interdisciplinary programming across STEM fields and the arts, and its role as an engaging, multi-purpose venue for public events - as well as two newly installed CAVE stereoscopic wall-projection virtual reality rooms. This role requires blending astronomy education, technical operation, and public engagement, and specific responsibilities include: developing content, writing script and implementing live planetarium shows; facilitating activities and shows for K-12 audiences, college classes, and the general public; and hosting special events. The Planetarium Specialist is expected to assist other programs and events as needed.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED

Planetarium and Media Technologies Manager

SUPERVISION EXERCISED

N/A

EXAMPLES OF SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Perform and facilitate daily programs and activities for K-12 students and out-of-school time groups. Assist with hosting FSU undergraduate courses in collaboration with the Planetarium Manager and Faculty. Work with McAuliffe Center staff to revise and develop new planetarium shows using the Center's Sky-Skan planetarium platform and Unreal Engine. Prepare realtime 3D visuals, audio content, and special effects. Assist with the maintenance and operation of the computer systems of the McAuliffe Simulation Laboratory. Work with student interns and outside development organizations that support the work of the Center. Set a positive, professional example for junior staff and third-party groups. Assist with planning, facilitating, and executing major public programs, concerts, conferences, talks, and other special events at the Christa McAuliffe Center. Contribute to ongoing program and activity development to produce VR-compatible planetarium content covering a range of interdisciplinary offerings. Communicate effectively with K-16 students, University staff, teachers, community agencies, and the public as required by the role. Work with McAuliffe Center staff to assist in facilitating and planning weekend and summer science programs for K-12 students and teachers. Need to be available to occasionally work evening and weekends. Accountable for ensuring that affirmative action, equal opportunity and diversity are integrally tied to all actions and decisions in areas of responsibilities.

WORKING CONDITIONS

May have some lifting and moving Must be available to work evening and weekend shifts

Requirements:

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

At least one of the following: Bachelor's degree or work experience in astronomy, physics, computer science, 3D content development, or a related field. Experience writing, programming, and deploying planetarium shows or virtual reality content. Strong knowledge of astronomy, physics, or 3D content development demonstrated through published work or other significant work experience and accomplishments. Good multimedia production skills, including basic image editing, audio editing, and familiarity with common 3D object formats. Commitment to a high standard of educational practice and scientific integrity. Demonstrated capacity to take ownership and responsibility for own work, strong organizational skills and understanding of collaborative practices.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Candidates who are bilingual in English and Spanish or English and Portuguese are strongly encouraged to apply.

Additional Information:

This is a part-time, non-benefited contract position, not to exceed 18 hours per week. The scheduled hours are flexible. The pay rate is $22.00-$25.00 per hour. Framingham State University is an equal opportunity employer. The University considers all qualified candidates without regard to race, color, sex, age, national origin, disability status, Veteran status, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, genetic information, or any other characteristics protected by law. Members of underrepresented or minoritized groups, women, veterans, persons with disabilities, and all persons committed to equity, diversity, and inclusive excellence are strongly encouraged to apply.

Application Instructions:

FOR STAFF POSITIONS

Candidates must apply online by submitting: Cover Letter, Resume/CV, Names and contact information for three (3) professional references (references are not contacted automatically upon submission of application). For best consideration, please submit application materials by June 12, 2026. The review of applications may continue beyond that date and until the position is filled, at the discretion of the search committee. Framingham State University only accepts application materials through our online application system. We are unable to accept application materials through mail, email, fax, or hand delivery. If you experience technical issues with the online application process, please submit a helpdesk ticket. Framingham State University understands that persons with specific disabilities may need assistance with the job application process and/or with the interview process. For confidential assistance, please contact the Human Resources Office at 508-626-4530 or humanresources@framingham.edu . Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Powered by