Event Assistant

Caltech is a world-renowned science and engineering institute that marshals some of the world's brightest minds and most innovative tools to address fundamental scientific questions. We thrive on finding and cultivating talented people who are passionate about what they do. Join us and be a part of the diverse Caltech community.

Job Summary

The Keck Institute for Space Studies (KISS) develops new planetary, Earth, and astrophysics space mission concepts and technology by bringing together a broad spectrum of scientists and engineers for sustained scientific and technical interaction. The Institute also provides opportunities for graduate students and postdoctoral fellows to actively participate in cutting-edge space mission research and learning. The Institute supports significant outreach to the public and the wider technical/scientific community via open lectures and the Internet.

Under the direction of the KISS Program Manager and Executive Director, the Event Assistant will support KISS workshops and events. This is an occasional position; work hours may vary. The work schedule is assigned based on the workshop/event schedule. Must be available to work between the hours of 6:30 am and 4:30 pm, and occasional evenings, 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm, depending on the event needs. Specific upcoming event dates, with potential additional preparatory work hours, include:

• July 27-30, 2026
• October 20-22, 2026
• November 2-6, 2026
• November 16-20, 2026
• December 14-18, 2026

Essential Job Duties

• Supports workshops/events, including but not limited to putting up directional metal signs, moving tables, pushing and rolling carts with event supplies, putting up banners, making name badges and sign-up sheets, checking in attendees at events, and setting up and cleaning after events.
• Other duties as assigned.

Basic Qualifications

• Previous experience in a service industry (food, retail, event customer service, etc.).
• Excellent organizational skills with the ability to multitask and work with a broad variety of individuals.
• Strong verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
• Must present an attitude of attentiveness, courtesy, and professionalism when assisting workshop/event guests and other staff members.
• Positive attitude and customer focus are essential.

Physical Requirements

• Physical strength to lift up to 35 pounds.
• Ability to bend in all directions, squeeze with arms and hands, climb stairs, and work outdoors in all kinds of weather.
• Ability to push and pull rolling items (e.g., carts).

Schedule Requirements

• Schedule flexibility is required for this occasional position between the hours of 6:30 am and 4:30 pm, and occasional evenings, 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm, from September to December 2026. There may be other calendar events for the 2026 year and in future years.

Preferred Qualifications

• General office skills are a plus.
• Multilingual applicants are a plus in this internationally renowned Think Tank.

Required Documents

• Resume

Hiring Range

$19.00 - $23.25 per hour

The salary of the finalist(s) selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, internal equity, experience, education, specialty and training.


As one of the largest employers in Pasadena, CA, Caltech is committed to providing comprehensive benefits to eligible employees and their eligible dependents. Our benefits package includes competitive compensation, health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement savings plans, generous paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick time, parental leave, bereavement, etc.), tuition reimbursement, and more. Non-benefit eligible employees will have access to some benefits such as onsite counseling and sick time. Learn more about our benefits and staff perks.

EEO Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Caltech is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.

To read more Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) go to eeoc_self_print_poster.pdf.

Disability Accommodations

Caltech complies with the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). We consider reasonable accommodation measures that may be necessary for eligible applicants and employees to perform the essential functions of a position.

If you would like to request an accommodation to complete this application, interview, or otherwise participate in the employee selection process, please contact Caltech Recruiting at View email address on click.appcast.io.

Additionally, if you do not meet the basic qualifications of a role but believe you can perform the essential functions of the job with reasonable accommodation, please reach out to Caltech Recruiting at View email address on click.appcast.io.