Office of Public Outreach Division Head

Job Description:

Job Summary

This senior leadership role directs an organizations science communication and public outreach efforts, setting strategic vision and overseeing execution across media relations, informal education, community outreach, and mission-focused communication initiatives. The position ensures that outreach programs, products, and services effectively support major space science missions and align with institutional and sponsor communication objectives.

The role requires high-level relationship building, strategic negotiation, and collaboration with leadership, government partners, scientific communities, and internal and external stakeholders. The Division Head leads long-term planning, resource allocation, staff management, and budget oversight while anticipating emerging trends in science communication and leveraging technology to expand audience reach and impact.

Key Responsibilities

Science Communication & Public Outreach Strategy

• Define and implement strategic direction, policies, standards, and performance expectations for science communication and public outreach functions
• Develop and sustain comprehensive outreach programs, products, and services that support institutional and mission goals
• Anticipate emerging trends and needs in science communication and guide development of innovative outreach initiatives
• Leverage evolving technologies to enhance public engagement and stakeholder communication

Stakeholder Engagement

• Build and maintain strong partnerships with government agencies, mission offices, and scientific communities
• Serve as a senior communication leader and advocate for institutional initiatives
• Gather feedback from diverse audiences to improve outreach products and services
• Translate community input into strategic actions that support mission objectives

Operational & People Management

• Identify and secure resources required to support outreach and communication activities
• Lead hiring, training, performance management, and professional development for a large, multidisciplinary team
• Oversee budget planning, forecasting, allocation, and expenditure approval
• Ensure operational effectiveness, accountability, and alignment with organizational policies

Reporting Structure

• Reports to executive leadership and operates independently on senior-level strategic and operational matters

Minimum Qualifications

Education

• Bachelors degree in Communications, Public Relations, Astronomy, Physics, or a related field
• Advanced degree strongly preferred

Experience

• 15+ years of progressively responsible experience in science communication, science writing, public outreach, or related leadership roles
• Demonstrated expertise in managing large-scale science communication programs with national or international reach
• Proven experience leading editorial processes that balance scientific accuracy, public interest, and news value
• Strong background in strategic messaging, multi-channel communication, and stakeholder alignment
• Demonstrated success in people management, strategic planning, and budget oversight

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Deep knowledge of science communication and public outreach best practices
• Established press and media relationships
• Strategic, visionary leadership capabilities
• Strong understanding of modern communication technologies and platforms
• Excellent written, verbal, and presentation skills
• Ability to build and sustain effective working relationships across diverse internal and external groups

Working Place:

Baltimore, Maryland, United States

Company :

2026 Feb 12th Virtual - Space Telescope Science Institute