employment
at SNCO

Logo of Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory featuring an owl on a branch and two stars with the text 'sunriver nature center & observatory'.

your career with us

At Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory, we're more than a team—we're a community of educators, naturalists, stargazers, caretakers, and dreamers. Every day, we work together to spark curiosity, protect our environment, and create unforgettable experiences in nature and science.

Whether we’re guiding a child through their first telescope view of Saturn or helping a rescued owl heal, our work is rooted in passion, purpose, and impact.

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make a difference

Your work supports hands-on education, wildlife conservation, and environmental stewardship in Central Oregon and beyond.

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where wonder happens

With Lake Aspen as your backdrop and the universe above your head, our campus is one of the most inspiring “offices” in the state.

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purpose-driven team

Collaborate with people who care deeply about nature, science, and community—and have a whole lot of fun doing it.

current openings

Observatory Interpreter

Summary/Objective

The Observatory Interpreter supports the daily operations of the Sunriver Observatory, engaging visitors through public programs, astronomy education, and interpretive experiences. This position assists in evening and daytime programs, special events, and outreach activities, ensuring a high-quality visitor experience. The Observatory Interpreter position has an emphasis on operating telescopes and talking with visitors about astronomy related topics

Position Responsibilities

  • Assist in evening and daytime observatory programs, engaging visitors in astronomy education.

  • Provide hands-on telescope demonstrations and assist visitors in using observatory equipment.

  • Support public presentations, night sky tours, and special events, both on-site and offsite.

  • Assist with visitor services, including greeting guests, answering questions, and providing educational interpretation.

  • Support outreach programs by representing SNCO at community events, festivals, and educational programs.

  • Ensure observatory safety protocols are followed during programs and public events.

  • Support Education Department and Nature Center as needed.

  • Other duties as assigned.

Work Environment

This position involves both indoor and outdoor work, including operating telescopes in nighttime conditions and extreme temperatures.

Travel

Some regional travel may be required for offsite programs and outreach events.

Required Education and Experience

  • This is an entry level position.

  • A passion for science communication. 

  • Customer service skills and the ability to engage with visitors. 

  • Ability to work evenings and weekends for observatory programs. 

  • Valid Oregon driver’s license or reliable transportation.

Preferred Education and Experience

  • Experience working with volunteers and in a team-based environment. 

Physical Requirements

  • Must be able to stand for extended periods of time and lift up to 20 lbs. 

  • Must be comfortable climbing stairs and using ladders to access observatory equipment. 

  • Must be able to work outdoors at night in a range of weather conditions. 

Hours/Compensation

These are seasonal position averaging 18 hours/week at a rate of $18-$20/hour DOE. These positions will run from mid June until mid September. There is potential for year around work, with off-season hours of 6 hours/week.

To apply please email a copy of your resume to paul@snco.org with Observatory Interpreter Application as the subject. Applications accepted until 5/15/26.