Planetarium Lead - Grand Rapids Public Museum

Posted on 8/27/25 

FLSA Status: Hourly, Non-exempt

Hours: Full-time - 40 hours per week, split shift, nights, weekends, and holidays (as required)

Compensation: $17.45/hour (with a 0.50 increase after the introductory period and another .50 after one year)

The Grand Rapids Public Museum is the oldest and second-largest museum in Michigan. We are a place of never-ending learning and discovery, with programs and exhibits focusing on history, science, and culture. The employee culture of the GRPM is one of teamwork, excitement, and learning. As an integral part of the West Michigan community, the Museum is open daily to visitors and hosts after-hours public events, programs, private events, and weddings. The entire GRPM team works to create positive visitor experiences through engaging exhibits and programs, and a safe, clean, welcoming space.

SUMMARY: This position serves as an assistant Planetarium Manager. This position will assist with producing educational and entertaining programs on astronomy, science, history, and culture for the Planetarium, and is responsible for maintaining and repairing equipment, and operations of the A/V system related to the functions of the Planetarium and Theater. It also serves in a lead capacity to run the Planetarium when needed. This position reports directly to the Planetarium & Theater Manager.

RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES including, but not limited to:

• Assists in the production of programs to educate, entertain, and inspire diverse audiences about astronomy and other topics.
• Maintains Planetarium and Theater audio-video equipment.
• Assists in the research, conception, design, and development of high-quality, interactive, professional, and imaginative digital media for Planetarium shows.
• Operates, maintains, and updates the Planetarium console, producer station, and Theater control room.
• Provide presentations on planetarium show material for the public and special groups as needed.
• Coordinate planetarium shows relative to other department needs.
• Knowledgeably interprets scientific/astronomical concepts to visitors.
• Participates in special events and activities within the Museum.
• Assist with A/V needs in the Planetarium and assist the other departments as requested.
• Assist with budget preparation for the Planetarium operations.
• Serves as contact for onsite staff on weekends and holidays as needed.
• Collaborates with the Planetarium Manager to provide mentorship and coaching of interns, mentors, etc.
• Supports collaboration strategies to maintain strong partnerships across Museum departments.
• Assist with building relationships with partner Planetarium entities
• Works under limited supervision following standardized practices and methods.

WORKSKILLS:

• Strong people skills; work and communicate diplomatically and courteously with staff, other team members, volunteers, guests, departments, and key stakeholders to meet common objectives and desired outcomes.
• Must be organized, dependable, punctual, and possess a strong work ethic.
• Must have strong interpersonal and conflict-resolution skills.
• Must be proficient with various computer technology programs/systems.
• Maintain a professional appearance and demeanor.
• Familiarity with Google Workspace and department software systems.
• Must be able to assist with the administration of project management objectives. ● Ability to describe and convey science principles and concepts to a wide range of ages and backgrounds.
• Software skills used to create compelling digital media include the following: video editing, audio editing, image manipulation, digital animation, and 3D modeling. Ability to diagnose and rectify issues with computers, audio-visual equipment, and other electronics.
• Must be able to perform manual labor.

EXPERIENCE:

• Minimum four (4) years of professional experience working in a Planetarium setting performing, creating, and editing digital productions (which include abstract animation, complex 3D environments, high-definition videos, and scripting languages).
• Experience with A/V equipment.
• A thorough knowledge of planetarium software and production software including Digistar 2025, Adobe suite, and 3D modeling programs such as Unreal Engine, Maya, or Blender.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Ability to demonstrate critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Proficient in managing time, work assignments, processes, and resources to produce desired outcomes.
• Demonstrate strong written and organizational skills with attention to detail.
• Proven ability to function effectively in a team environment, as well as work independently.
• Ability to work tactfully and effectively and follow both oral and written instructions.
• Ability to resolve conflicts and work well with others.
• Ability to be flexible, maintain a positive attitude, and lead by example.
• Ability to operate with confidential sensitive information.
• Ability to be comfortable with doing public presentations.
• Ability to serve in a management role.
• Specific knowledge-based competencies required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the job include general astronomy; pertinent software applications and computer programming; and concepts of grammar, punctuation, algebra, and geometry.

EDUCATION:

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience with studies in job-related areas.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Must be able to move, bend, stoop, reach, and lift up to 50 pounds.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Professional business setting with friendly interaction.