employment
at SNCO
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.
make a difference
Your work supports hands-on education, wildlife conservation, and environmental stewardship in Central Oregon and beyond.
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.
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 Specialist
Summary/Objective
The Observatory Specialist 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 Specialist serves as a key team member, working alongside Observatory Interpreters, the Assistant Manager, and the Observatory Manager to enhance astronomy education and public engagement at SNCO.
Position Responsibilities
Assist in leading 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.
Contribute to the training and mentoring of Observatory Interpreters and volunteers.
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.
Work closely with the Assistant Manager and Manager to enhance programming and visitor experiences.
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
High School Diploma or equivalent.
Previous experience in science education, astronomy, or public engagement.
Experience leading or assisting with educational programs for diverse audiences.
Strong knowledge of astronomy and a passion for science communication.
Excellent customer service skills and the ability to engage with visitors.
Strong verbal communication and public speaking abilities.
Ability to work evenings and weekends as needed for observatory programs.
Valid Oregon driver’s license.
Preferred Education and Experience
Experience working with telescopes and astronomy equipment.
Previous experience leading interpretive programs or science-based education.
Experience working with volunteers or 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
This is a year-round position averaging 30 hours/week at a rate of $20-$23/hour DOE. Summer hours (May-September) average 40 hours/week, while fall, winter, and spring hours average 30 hours/week. This position qualifies for health insurance benefits and PTO accrual.
To apply please email a copy of your resume to paul@snco.org with Observatory Specialist Application as the subject. Applications accepted until 3/20/26.
Summer Camps Specialist
Summary/Objective
This position is responsible for the delivery of all outdoor summer nature camps and/or summer space camps. Additionally, this position assists with supporting programs for children and family programs, themed special events, and animal ambassador programs. This is a highly cross-trained position and serves as an integral member of the daytime team.
Position Responsibilities
Delivery of summer camp program experiences for elementary and middle school age children. Deliver interactive activities such as planetarium programs, games, experiments, hikes, crafts, etc. with the natural world in mind.
Participation in the delivery of on-site visitor experiences such as presentations, tours, guided hikes, animal ambassador encounters, and other interpretive programs.
Provide support for daily visitor service operations including fielding visitor inquiries and staffing the front desk if needed.
Provide support in animal husbandry and deliver live animal presentations as needed.
Participate in the delivery of organization-wide special events including the annual Wildflower Show & Pollinator Festival.
Other duties as assigned.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.
Work Environment
While performing the duties of this job, the employee works primarily outdoors, which may include extreme temperatures, with a diverse population and wildlife.
Required Education and Experience
Must be at least 18 with a High School Diploma.
Excellent customer service and communication skills.
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with changing priorities.
Interest in working with children and a wide variety of people.
Must be able to work outdoors in hot, cold, wet and/or dry conditions and engage in sustained physical activity throughout the day during the summer.
Must be able to sit or stand for extended periods of time and lift up to 50 lbs.
Must exercise patience in stressful situations.
Preferred Education and Experience
Active CPR/First Aid certification or Wilderness First Aid.
Experience working with children in outdoor settings.
Enthusiasm for the natural world
Hours/Compensation
This is a seasonal summer position averaging 30-35 hours/week at a rate of $19.57/hour. This position runs from June 8th until August 21st and is eligible for up to $200 end-of-summer bonus.
To apply please email a copy of your resume to programs@snco.org with Summer Camp Specialist Application as the subject. Applications accepted until all positions are filled.
Interested in starting earlier? We are also looking for a part-time Assistant Educator to assist with field trips this spring! If interested please let us know in your application email.