Jobs & Volunteering

Jobs

The University of Texas McDonald Observatory is seeking a uniquely qualified
individual to work as a Public Affairs Specialist (PAS) at the Observatory’s
far West Texas facility near Fort Davis. The PAS will conduct guided tours
of the Observatory’s research facilities, present viewings of the Sun using
specially filtered telescopes, operate various sized telescopes at the Frank
N Bash Visitors Center’s Telescope Park, and host special viewing nights on
some of the large research telescopes. A background in astronomy/science
education or extensive experience as an amateur astronomer as well as public
speaking experience is preferred. Housing provided at the Observatory.
Full details and online application instructions at:
http://utdirect.utexas.edu/pnjobs/pnjobsvw.WBX?job_nbr=08-04-21-01-8679

The University of Texas at Austin is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Volunteers

The Public Observatory benefits greatly from volunteer support provided by area amateur astronomers. These individuals frequently bring their own telescopes to Star Parties in order to share striking views of the night sky with visitors to the Observatory.

The Observatory's annual Volunteer Appreciation Night, April 6, 2005.

Pictured, left to right: Russ Peterman, Tommye Peterman, Kevin Meyer, Sharon Ingram, Russ Ingram, Eileen Worth, Bill Worth, Rachel Green, Mike Taylor, Sara Sawicki, Volunteer Coordinator Shannon Rudine (in back), Carol Hobby, Tom Hobby, Carl Sawicki, Director Dr. David Lambert.

Volunteer Opportunities
The Frank N. Bash Visitor Center at McDonald Observatory offers volunteer opportunities to individuals interested in astronomy and/or education. The greatest need for volunteers has been during our public star parties at busy times of the year. We have several telescopes that we use for our public programs including a 16" Meade LX200, 22" Classical Cassegrain, 22" Dobsonian and several Celestron and Meade 8" Schmidt Cassegrains. Training is provided. If you would like more information please contact the Visitors Center through the Volunteer Coordinator or call us at (432) 426-3640 and ask for Mr. Shannon Rudine.