We are recruiting!

We're searching for our next Astronomers and Science Communicators!

We are once more expanding our team.  As we continue to deliver exceptional experiences and develop a wide range of new programmes, we are looking to recruit a full time (37.5 hrs) Astronomer and Science Communicator

About Us

Kielder Observatory is an astronomical public outreach charity located in Kielder Forest, Northumberland, under some of the darkest skies in Europe.  A clear sky at Kielder is truly special: the air is crisp, the silence is bewitching, the stars are mesmerising.  It is a reminder of how lucky we are to be alive on this tiny little planet near one of the billions of stars in one of the billions of galaxies that exist in the known universe. With the inspiration from our skies and the strength of a passionate team, we deliver a truly unique Kielder moment that can transform people's lives.  We have hosted thousands of events at the observatory since we opened in 2008.  We also run one of the most significant school programmes in the North East of England as well as delivering events and activities in prisons, hospitals, community centres, hotels and other venues across the UK and now globally.  More information about our mission, vision, values and future plans can be found here https://kielderobservatory.org/the-observatory/vision

Who are we looking for?

We welcome applications from everyone with an interest in and knowledge of astronomy. Passion for astronomy and engaging the public is at the core of what we look for in our team.  Formal qualifications are not essential, it's more important to demonstrate the ability to communicate your enthusiasm for, and knowledge of the universe to a wide range of audiences.  We have a diverse team and are interested in different lived experiences.  

What will you be doing?

We are a small, focused team and as part of our science communication crew, you will be focused on taking part in delivering events to the public in a range of settings, from the Observatory to schools and venues across the region and beyond, as well as online via various streaming services, although much of your work schedule will be on site at Kielder.

You will take part in the delivery of observatory tours and star gazing, give talks and other activities which call for great public speaking, communication and performance skils, driven from passion and enthusiasm for the topic.

Most events run in the evenings at the observatory and sometimes end beyond midnight, while school activiites take place during the daytime and other activities can take place at varied times.  You would be scheduled appropriately in advance through our staff rota.

You will also have the opportunity to work on other content for production and science communication.  Whether that be written content, video production using our in-house equipment, taking part in our monthly podcast, or production materials for our social media channels.

We welcome an active appetite to grow and learn and encourage our whole team to regularly take part in continuing professional development with an individual yearly budget to do so, in addition of up to 10% allocated time from your schedule.

If you are interested in helping inspire people from all walks of life with the wonders of our universe, we look forward to hearing from you

Please download the Job Description for full details of the role and apply by Midnight 2nd February 2024. If you have any questions, please contact Dan Pye (Director of Astronomy and Science Communication) This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

If you have any access requirements regarding making an application, please just let us know

To apply you can either:

• Send your CV and a Supporting Statement (no more than 1 side of A4) to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
• Or submit your CV to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and supporting statement via video (maximum 2 minutes for supporting statement video) using this link: Video Application (Upload Here)

Job Description and Person Specification: Astronomer & Science Communicator