Laser Presenter at Clark Planetarium

Job Description

Present educational and entertainment programs to schools, groups and the general public in the planetarium theater. Interact with patrons and respond to questions relating to the facility, space science, astronomy, sky observing, and current events.  

 

Areas of Responsibility:

• Operate sophisticated computer systems and other special effects in the planetarium theater.
• Present both live-narrated and automated programs to a wide variety of audiences.
• Present live entertainment light shows by utilizing a wide variety of laser and lighting effects to prerecorded music.
• Be able to diagnose minor operating problems and conduct repairs as needed.  

Necessary Skills, Abilities and Educational Background:

• Proficiency with the general operation of computers. Visual presentation software skills and programming aptitude are a plus.
• Advanced technical troubleshooting skills. Ability to diagnose and repair minor issues with the laser system, spot lights, strobes, SMPTE timecode system, DMX control panel, fog machine, etc.
• Showmanship, public speaking, group interaction. Must be willing to initiate and engage others in conversation and excite and energize audiences during entertainment light shows.
• Strong science education background, preferably physics, astronomy, mathematics, or chemistry. All science experience does not need to be in the way of formal education -- a balanced level of academics, informal education and self-teaching is acceptable.
• Musical aptitude; ability to trigger lighting and other visual effects quickly and in time with music during entertainment light shows. 

In order for Clark Planetarium to be successful, its employees must possess a demonstrated level of interest and enthusiasm for the institution, the field, and its role in teaching people about the wonders of the universe.

 

TEMPORARY POSITIONS:

An "At Will", FLSA non-exempt employee who is not eligible for County benefits and who must work an average of 29 hours or less per week or an average of 129 hours or less per month.  

• Must work an average of 29 hours or less per week or an average of 129 hours or less per month.
• Are not eligible for County benefits except as otherwise provided for by policy.
• Are not considered merit employees.
• Are "at will" employees who may be terminated for any reason, without notice, and without a pre-termination hearing.