Jr. Communications Specialist

The NSF NOIRLab is the preeminent US national center for ground-based, nighttime optical and infrared astronomy. NOIRLab is a Federally Funded Research and Development Center (FFRDC) which operates as a matrix organization, providing services across a range of programs: Gemini, Rubin, MSO (CTIO and KPNO), and CSDC; with facilities in three geographic locations: Arizona, Chile and Hawai’i. The mission of NOIRLab is to enable breakthrough discoveries in astrophysics by developing and operating state‑of‑the‑art ground‑based observatories and providing data products and services for our community. The Communications, Education & Engagement (CEE) group consists of approximately 30 staff including communications specialists, educators, graphics professionals, and other content professionals. CEE is responsible for telling the story of NOIRLab and its programs in a cohesive and coordinated manner that is tailored to each of its target audiences. The Kitt Peak Visitor Center is comprised of the museum, retail gift shop, the four Kitt Peak Visitor Center (KPVC) telescopes and the NOIRLab Windows on the Universe Center for Astronomy Outreach (Windows Center) with its Science on Sphere (SoS), 3 Heliostats and visualization theater. The KPVC operates as an integral part of the CEE unit. Working as part of CEE’s Communications Group, the Jr. Communication Specialist is charged with assisting with part of NOIRLab’s internal and external communications as well as assisting with the Kitt Peak visit experience project. The position offers excellent opportunities to work in an exciting and diverse environment as well as for professional growth and advancement. Our preference is for this position to be based in Tucson, AZ. However, there is the possibility of some hybrid working. This is a one‑year renewable full‑time position. Essential Functions Assist with press releases, external announcements, and other external news products Draft content for the NOIRLab Public website, including the production of new pages, and coordinating updates to existing pages Proofread external and internal news Coordinate communication projects and occasionally maintain and update process documentation Perform the KPVC membership program administration Participate and engage with colleagues at professional communications and scientific meetings Other Functions Other duties as assigned Requirements Bachelor’s degree in astronomy, physics, communications or a related field or equivalent Sufficient astronomy background to fully understand and communicate the main points of astronomy research papers Excellent organizational skills and ability to lead and coordinate projects and work effectively and efficiently on a wide range of parallel activities Excellent oral and written communication skills and an interest in internal and external organizational communication Experience working as a professional public science communicator Demonstrated experience in project coordination and leadership (ideally in science outreach, news or marketing) Highly flexible and willing to adapt to NOIRLab’s processes and workflows The ability to collaborate with people from diverse backgrounds, countries, and cultures Be results‑oriented — delivering prompt and efficient service on multiple concurrent projects under tight deadlines Strong analytical skills and ability to anticipate/identify problems and provide workable solutions independently Proactivity and ability to work effectively both in a team and independently Native language level in written English and fluent language level in spoken English Ability and willingness to travel internationally Responsibility for ensuring compliance with government award terms and conditions assigned to this position or subordinates of this position as defined in the Vela Award Management system Desired Proficient in Google Workspace Experience working with the U.S. and international media Experience supporting projects or organizations that are supported by U.S. federal funding Experience developing written and visual organizational communications Work Environment This position operates in a professional office environment and routinely utilizes standard office equipment, including computers, phones, and copiers. The work environment is generally quiet and may involve working in close proximity to others, depending on the needs of the specific function. Physical Demands The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Must be able to remain in a stationary position at least 50% of the time Occasional need to move about inside the office environment to access files, office tools, attendance in a meeting room, etc. Constantly operates a computer and other office productivity tools that require fine motor skills, such as a calculator, copy machine, computer printer, etc. May occasionally need to position self to maintain computer and related tools Seldomly needed to move objects up to 10 pounds Constant communication with other individuals. Must be able to discern and exchange information as appropriate to the situation Constant need to distinguish, discern, and identify a variety of objects and fine details with accuracy The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this position. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities and skills required by personnel so classified. This Institute promotes Equal Employment Opportunity workplace that includes reasonable accommodations to otherwise qualified, disabled applicants and employees. Salary Range $51,000 - $62,000 annually. The final salary will depend on skills, qualifications and experience. AURA offers an excellent benefits package including paid time off and retirement plan contributions, competitive salary commensurate with experience, and a very attractive work environment. Details on benefits can be found at Benefits by Location - Aura Human Resources. How to Apply Apply by April 1, 2026 , for priority consideration. This position will remain open until it is filled. Please submit a cover letter and a CV or resume, PDF files preferred. Please name any attachments with the following format: LastName DocName. Individuals needing assistance with the employment process can request assistance here. #J-18808-Ljbffr