Director, Dyer Observatory

NOTE: Applications require both a resume and a cover letter. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Position Summary: 

The Director of Vanderbilt University Observatory will lead and manage the vision, strategic direction, and operations of the university's observatory and its associated programming. This position, situated within the Division of Government and Community Relations, will focus on developing initiatives that strengthen the connection between Vanderbilt University and the local community, leveraging the observatory as a resource for both STEAM education and cultural programming and public engagement. The Director will be a key leader in creating programs that promote learning and foster collaboration between the university, local schools, community organizations, and individuals.

This role requires a dynamic and visionary leader with a passion for serving the Vanderbilt and Nashville community in STEAM education, and for positioning Dyer as an important mid-state resource for accessing community and cultural opportunities. The Director will be responsible for developing collaborations and executing outreach programs that serve as bridges between the university’s academic resources, the unique Dyer campus, and the community. Additionally, the Director will manage the observatory’s operations, staff, and cultivate partnerships that advance the mission of the observatory and the university.

About this Work Unit: 

Vanderbilt Dyer Observatory’s mission is to inspire public interest in science, technology, engineering, math, and astronomy through community events, student outreach, and educational resources. The Observatory is an inholding within the boundaries of Radnor Lake State Park and is home to the historic Seyfert Telescope. The facility provides a variety of STEAM educational opportunities and summer science camps. It also hosts teacher workshops, lectures, field trips, celestial viewings, and general tours to achieve its overarching mission to bring the excitement of astronomy and physics to students and the public throughout the middle TN region. Public events, such as Bluebird on the Mountain concerts and private rental events, also utilize this unique property.

Dyer Observatory is housed within the Division of Government and Community Relations. The division is responsible for the university’s advocacy work with all branches of government and for leading community initiatives and fostering and supporting community engagement.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Observatory Management:

• Oversee the daily operations and maintenance of the Vanderbilt University Dyer Observatory, ensuring it is operating at capacity and accessible for both academic and community public partnerships.
• Develop and implement an innovative vision for the observatory, enhancing the academic mission of Vanderbilt, with a focus on its use in learning and discovery, and public, student and faculty engagement.
• Oversee the operational priorities of the observatory to maximize its use for both university and public programs as well as private events.

2. Campus and Community Engagement & Outreach:

• Serve as the primary spokesperson for the observatory and its mission, engaging with community stakeholders and the public to promote these initiatives.
• Build and sustain strategic partnerships with campus partners, local schools and organizations, and within the community to enhance programming and outreach efforts.
• Collaborate with the Division of Government and Community Relations and other university stakeholders to ensure alignment with university goals for public engagement and community impact.
• Develop and promote initiatives that encourage active participation from community members, including educators, students, families, and local leaders.

3. STEAM Programming Oversight:

• Oversee Dyer’s diverse array of STEAM programs and educational initiatives targeting K-12 students, university students, faculty, and the broader Nashville community led by Dyer’s STEAM Program Director.

4. Leadership & Staff Development:

• Lead, manage, and insp