Program Manager

Job Summary The Program Manager is responsible for the day‑to‑day operations of astronomy‑related education and professional development programs offered through the University of California Observatories (UCO). These programs include the Professional Development Program, the AstroTech instrumentation summer school, and ASTRAL programs, engaging graduate students, postdoctoral researchers, undergraduate and Bay Area college students, and faculty. Responsibilities Coordinate short courses and workshops (30%) Work with instructors to develop agendas, facilitate meetings, prepare teaching plans, and coordinate visiting speakers or stakeholders. Identify facility and meeting‑room needs with instructional teams. Apply knowledge of equitable teaching practices to develop training sessions. Implement programs (30%) Collaborate with program teams—including staff, faculty, contractors, and volunteers—to manage tasks for programs or workshops, some at Lick Observatory. Apply project‑management practices to anticipate problems and ensure smooth running. Serve as point of contact for participants during program operation and notify the Program Director of any health and safety issues. Drive to program sites. Program announcement and recruiting (15%) Develop and announce program details and application openings, including dates, facilities, selection criteria, housing, transportation, and descriptions. Engage with colleges, graduate programs, clubs, and student organizations to generate diverse applicant pools. Monitor applications, follow up, answer questions, and adjust recruiting strategies. Participant selection and acceptance (15%) Review applications, evaluate qualifications, and make recommendations. Coordinate selection committees and monitor logistical aspects such as lodging, transportation, and funder requirements. Program infrastructure and administration (10%) Participate in program staff meetings and planning using existing management infrastructure. Perform miscellaneous administrative tasks. Employment Information Appointment type: Career Start date: TBD; End date: 31 August 2027 (possible extension) Salary: $90,000 – $110,000 annually (budgeted) Benefits: Full benefits Work schedule: Full‑time, fixed; 40 hrs per week (Mon‑Fri, occasional evenings/weekends) Location: UC Santa Cruz Main Campus Travel: Up to 25 % of time, including travel at Lick Observatory and other sites Union representation: RP – Research and Public Service PR Required Qualifications Master’s degree in astronomy, physics, or related field, or equivalent experience/training. Thorough knowledge of training, teaching, or mentoring college‑level or early‑career STEM students. Experience with training programs outside formal education systems. Strong interest in astronomy, observatories, and education promoting diversity. Analytical and organizational skills for application, selection, and placement processes. Knowledge of STEM communication practices. Strong collaboration skills and experience managing multiple concurrent programs. Proficient with Google Suite (Drive, Gmail, Docs, Sheets, Forms, Sites, Slides). Preferred Qualifications PhD in astronomy or related field, or equivalent experience/training. Knowledge of adult learning theories and effective equitable learning environments. Experience managing training programs outside formal educational systems. Experience at an observatory or with professional development programs like Professional Development Program, AstroTech, ASTRAL, Akamai Workforce Initiative, etc. Experience with WordPress and template use. Special Conditions of Employment Background check, misconduct disclosure, and valid California driver’s license required. Work long periods at a computer; hybrid work schedule option available. Must work in person on campus as operationally required; travel expenses not covered. Variable schedule including evenings, weekends, and emergency response. Must complete UC compliance training and safety procedures. Must wear appropriate safety attire and PPE in laboratory settings. Must travel nationally and to multiple work locations. Vaccination policy; must comply with UC vaccine program. Mandated reporter of child abuse/neglect per CANRA; required to report and sign acknowledgment. Equal Employment Opportunity The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status or other protected categories covered by the UC Anti‑Discrimination Policy. The University of California undertakes affirmative action and anti‑discrimination efforts consistent with its obligations as a federal and state contractor. #J-18808-Ljbffr