ESO Supernova Science Communicator

ESO Supernova Science Communicator

ESO - European Southern Observatory

Garching, Germany

The European Organisation for Astronomical Research in the Southern Hemisphere (ESO) is the foremost intergovernmental astronomy organisation in Europe and the world's most productive ground-based astronomical observatory. ESO carries out an ambitious programme focused on the design, construction and operation of powerful ground-based observing facilities enabling astronomers to make important scientific discoveries.

ESO operates three unique world-class observing sites in northern Chile: La Silla, Paranal and Chajnantor (home to ALMA), and the ESO Headquarters are located in Garching, near Munich, Germany.

At Paranal, ESO operates the Very Large Telescope, the world's most advanced visible-light astronomical observatory, and will host and operate the southern array of the Cherenkov Telescope Array, the world's largest and most sensitive high energy gamma-ray observatory. ESO is a major partner in ALMA. On Cerro Armazones, ESO is building the 39-metre Extremely Large Telescope (ELT), which will become "the world's biggest eye on the sky" and whose operations will be fully integrated into the Paranal Observatory.

Due to the need for additional resources for the ESO Supernova Planetarium & Visitor Centre, within the Directorate for Science at its Headquarters in Garching, near Munich, Germany, ESO is advertising the position of ESO Supernova Science Communicator.

The ESO Supernova is a leading education facility, attracting approximately 60,000 visitors annually. Our 14-metre-diameter planetarium and a 2,200-square-metre interactive exhibition offer a unique opportunity for science enthusiasts of all ages to explore the wonders of astronomy. The facility is open five days per week, from Wednesday to Sunday, with occasional special events held outside of core hours.

We are seeking a passionate Science Communicator to work alongside our team of professional science communicators and educators, delivering inspiring programmes, planetarium shows, hands-on workshops, and guided tours that captivate and engage visitors. This is a unique opportunity for a creative, enthusiastic individual who enjoys science, thrives in an interactive learning environment, and is passionate about sharing the wonders of the universe with diverse audiences.

This role includes weekend work (minimum one weekend per month) and some evening work (approx. 1 per week), which would be compensated in line with ESO's staff rules and regulations.

Main Duties and Responsibilities:

• Present engaging planetarium shows (in both German and English), including a live description of the current night sky, for a broad range of audiences;
• Lead guided tours in the exhibition of the ESO Supernova and the ESO Headquarters, for a variety of groups, sharing accurate and captivating insights on astronomy and the associated technology;
• Take responsibility for the safe and smooth operation of the ESO Supernova during weekends (at least once per month) and occasional evening events, ensuring all systems are functioning and visitors are satisfied;
• Respond to email enquiries and assist visitors with bookings, questions, and helpful information about visiting the ESO Supernova;
• Occasionally deliver public engagement events for families, special occasions, festivals, and themed activities that encourage exploration and learning;
• Collaborate with the Education Team to assist in preparing school visits, teacher training workshops, and other educational programs;
• Create and edit engaging content for social media platforms (e.g., short videos, posts, and articles) to promote ESO Supernova's offerings and educational resources;
• Support in translating and editing of marketing and promotional materials (including social media posts, news items) in English and in German to ensure clarity and engagement;
• Play an active role within the ESO Supernova and ESO by attending and participating in team and wider organisational meetings, representing the team, when required, at internal and external events;
• Assist with hosting external guests and colleagues, providing tours and/or short presentations as required;
• Share your insights and ideas with the team to improve our offerings and enhance visitor engagement;
• Professional Development: Stay updated on the latest developments in astronomy and science communication, participating in training and attending conferences as required.

The above responsibilities are not exhaustive and a flexible approach and willingness to adapt to unexpected needs and perform further general science communication tasks is essential.

Reports to:

Head of ESO Supernova.

Key Competences and Experience:

Essential Competences and Experience

• Exceptional public speaking skills and the ability to engage audiences of all ages;
• Proven customer service skills with a patient and approachable demeanour;
• Demonstrated experience (minimum three years) in a similar capacity within informal or formal learning sector (e.g. in a science centre, museum or public observatory, or teaching science);
• Comfortable presenting complex scientific concepts to diverse audiences (both one-to-one and to larger groups) and adapting communication styles as needed;
• A genuine demonstrated interest in science and engineering, with a focus on astronomy, with a strong desire to continue learning and sharing knowledge;
• Proactive, responsible and comfortable working both independently and as part of a team;
• Excellent time management and organisational skills;
• Comfortable working in low-light conditions;
• At ease with handling minor technical problems independently incl. being able to improvise live;
• Openness and flexibility to work evenings (average 4 per month) and at least one weekend per month (mandatory).

Desirable Competences and Experience

• Previous experience operating a planetarium;
• Experience with programming or scripting;
• Familiarity with online content creation and digital media tools.

Qualifications:

Higher Technical Diploma (or equivalent) in Natural or Physical Sciences, Engineering, Communication, or related field, with additional three years of relevant work experience. A qualification in science communication would be desirable, as would any additional education in astronomy/astrophysics (e.g. evening classes).

Language Skills:

The position requires fluency in English and German (C1 level minimum) with the ability to comfortably discuss scientific topics in both languages. Additional language skills are an advantage.

Remuneration and Contract:

We offer an attractive remuneration package including a competitive salary, comprehensive pension scheme and medical, educational and other social benefits, as well as financial help in relocating your family and support to place your child/children in daycare.

Our Salary Structure

ESO's salary structure is based upon a range of career paths which reflect the nature and level of our jobs. Each career path is made up of two or three grades which are used to further reflect experience.

Please follow this attached link for more details https://www.eso.org/public/jobs/conditions/intstaff/salary-structure/.

ESO aims to support members of personnel in maintaining a good work-life balance (https://www.eso.org/public/jobs/conditions/intstaff/#work-life-balance) between their professional and private life. ESO is also committed to offering family-friendly support (https://www.eso.org/public/jobs/conditions/intstaff/#family-friendly-support), creating a work environment and policies which allow staff to balance their professional and private responsibilities through flexible working arrangements and financial support for families.

The contract is for a fixed term duration of three years and is subject to successful completion of the probation period. There may be a possibility of extension(s) subject to individual performance and organisational requirements, and as defined in the applicable policies and staff rules and regulations. For any further information, please visit ESO's conditions of employment (https://www.eso.org/public/jobs/conditions/). Please note that the contract policy and in particular the regulations concerning fixed-term and indefinite contracts are currently under review which may lead to changes in the contractual conditions applicable to this position.

Duty Station: Garching near Munich, Germany
Career Path: III

Application:

If you are a curious, creative, and communicative individual who thrives in a dynamic, educational setting and has a passion for sharing the marvels of the cosmos, we want to hear from you. Whether you are an early career communicator or an experienced educator, if you have the drive to inspire, teach, and learn, you will be a perfect fit for our team. Please visit http://www.eso.org for further details.

Applicants are invited to apply online. Applications must be completed in English and should include a motivation letter and CV. Within your CV, please provide the names and contact details of three persons familiar with your work and willing to provide a recommendation letter upon request. Referees will not be contacted without your prior consent.

Deadline for applications is 6 April 2025.

Interviews are expected to take place around end of April/beginning of May 2025.

An important element in any successful employment relationship is harmony in values between an organisation and its people.

The ESO Values are

ESO strives for excellence through innovation.

ESO provides outstanding services to its communities.

ESO fosters diversity & inclusion.

ESO believes in the key role of sustainability for its future.

Achieving the above are recognized as only possible on the basis of personal values and attitudes that we expect from our employees: respect, integrity, accountability, commitment, collaboration, and clear & open communication. Applicants to any ESO role are asked to reflect on their affinity with these values and advised they may be asked about them if called for interview.

Diversity:

ESO has established diversity as an important value of the Organisation, is committed to providing an equal opportunities environment and is actively seeking to promote a diverse, equitable and inclusive workforce. Please visit https://www.eso.org/public/about-eso/sustainability/dei-at-eso/ for further details.

Nationality:

No nationality is in principle excluded from employment at ESO, however, recruitment preference will be given to nationals of our Member States, host states and strategic partners: Australia, Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and Chile, irrespective of gender, age, disability, sexual orientation, ethnicity or religion.

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