Astronomy Volunteers

Logan Pass star parties provide incredible dark skies, lots of telescopes, and an opportunity to experience one of the darkest places in America.
Logan Pass star parties provide incredible dark skies, lots of telescopes, and an opportunity to experience one of the darkest places in America.

Photo by John Ashley

 

Astronomy Volunteer Positions

The Positions
Glacier's Astronomy Outreach and Education Program began in 2008. The program has grown to become one of the National Park Service's premiere astronomy programs. Glacier's volunteer astronomers help over 10,000 visitors view the sun and night sky every summer. Astronomy volunteers are patient communicators who are able to help a diverse audience learn about astronomy. During nightly sky tours and telescope viewing, astronomers interact with many who are completely new to the night sky. Astronomers also assist with large events like our Logan Pass star parties. Our astronomers provide constellation tours and use park-owned telescopes to show visitors the wonders of deep space. Astronomers on the east side of the park also present programs using the park's Dusty Star Observatory and 20 inch telescope located in St. Mary.

These positions work closely with the public in an outdoor setting and in a variety of weather conditions including heat, cold, wind, and smoky skies. Additional training in interpretive skills, customer service, park operations, and other professional development opportunities may also be available. Applicants who need academic internship credits can be supported.

This program is supported by the Glacier National Park Conservancy.

Required Skills and Interests

  • Background in astronomy education
  • Ability to set up and use both celestial and solar telescopes
  • Experience in manual and/or GoTo telescope operation
  • Ability to clearly communicate values of dark skies and find and describe astronomical objects
  • Ability to conduct night sky constellation tours
  • Good customer service skills
  • Ability to work independently and live in a remote area

Desired Skills and Interests

  • Ability to communicate the “big picture” of dark skies and how this relates to protecting national parks
  • Curiosity and friendliness
  • Experience providing astronomy programs for the public through star parties or other events
  • Experience with electronically assisted astronomy

Position Dates
Positions run from approximately mid June through early September. Beginning and ending dates may be flexible. Work schedule is four to five days per week (32-40 hours) with both afternoon solar programs and nighttime celestial programs.

Position Locations
These positions (up to 4) are located in either the Hudson Bay District at St. Mary (east side) or the West Lakes District at Apgar (west side) of Glacier National Park.

Stipend
Astronomy volunteers are reimbursed for living expenses at the rate of $250 per week. An $800 travel allowance is also provided. The park also provides name tags and uniforms, plus $125 to defray the cost of other uniform items.

Housing
Volunteers in both St. Mary and Apgar are provided with trailer pads, utilities included. Trailer spaces are located in nearby, private campgrounds (no more than 5 miles from the park entrance). Separate bathroom and shower facilities are not available.

Application Information
A resume, cover letter, and contact information for three professional references (name, title/position, phone, and e-mail) should be submitted via email. If selected, a federal background investigation will be required.

Applications for the 2024 summer season will be reviewed beginning in February.

Park Contact
For more information or to submit an application, please contact glac_astronomy@nps.gov.

Last updated: November 9, 2023

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

PO Box 128
West Glacier, MT 59936

Phone:

406-888-7800

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