Planetarium Projectionist

The University of Southern Maine’s Southworth Planetarium is seeking temporary, part-time Projectionists.  

Located on our Portland Campus, the Southworth Planetarium is open to the public and offers regularly changing astronomy shows, courses, lectures, and so much more.  Learn about space through fun and exciting educational shows on a wide range of topics including Fires in the Sky, Seasons of Light, Tour of the Solar System and Through the Eyes of Hubble. 

Overall Duties and Responsibilities Include:

• Operate the planetarium’s projection, lighting, and sound systems during scheduled public shows, classes, and special events, following established procedures and show scripts.
• Prepare the planetarium theater for programs by opening the space, conducting basic equipment start-up checks, and ensuring seating and presentation areas are ready for audiences.
• Assist with the presentation of pre-recorded and live planetarium programs as directed by the Planetarium Manager.
• Monitor equipment during shows and report any technical issues or malfunctions to the Planetarium Manager.
• Perform basic shutdown procedures and secure the facility after programs.
• Follow all University of Southern Maine policies related to safety, accessibility, customer service, and event operations.
• Support special events, school group visits, and outreach programs as scheduled.

The Planetarium offers shows during the day and evening, including weekends.  Schedule will depend on show times. 

This is a part-time temporary position located on our Portland Campus that will pay $16.75/hour.  

The University of Southern Maine is a vibrant academic community located in the greater Portland, Maine area, including campuses in Portland, Gorham, Lewiston, and online. USM is part of the University of Maine System and offers a comprehensive array of undergraduate and graduate programs, emphasizing hands-on learning, community engagement, and interdisciplinary collaboration. With a highly engaged student-centered learning environment, USM is a steward of higher education, helping drive the economic, cultural, and civic life in the communities where our campuses are located and beyond.  USM is committed to providing expanded access to high-quality education that elevates economic opportunity and contributes significantly to the vitality of a diverse society. To learn more about USM, visit About Our University. 

The University of Southern Maine fosters a welcoming and supportive campus environment that respects and appreciates varied perspectives, enhancing teaching, learning, personal growth, and overall institutional achievement.  We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds who share our dedication to academic excellence and the enrichment of our community.

We are dedicated to our Service Promise, Student Focused Every Day and seek a team member who embraces this commitment and upholds our core values of Respect & Care, Integrity, Equity, and Responsiveness. 

Required Qualifications:

• Astronomical knowledge as well as technical proficiency.
• Ability to learn and operate audiovisual and projection equipment with training provided.
• Basic computer skills and comfort following written instructions and show scripts.
• Strong reliability, punctuality, and attention to detail.
• Ability to communicate clearly and courteously with the public, including students, faculty, and visitors.
• Willingness and availability to work evenings and weekends as required by the planetarium schedule.

How to Apply:

Click on ‘Apply Now’ or visit our USM Careers Page and submit the following:

• Cover Letter
• Resume/Curriculum Vitae
• Finalist candidates will be asked to provide a list of the names and contact information for references.

Applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis and the position will remain posted until filled. 

We are not able to consider applicants who require Visa sponsorship support.

Appropriate background screening will be conducted for the successful candidate.

The University of Maine System (the System) is an equal opportunity institution committed to fostering a nondiscriminatory environment and complying with all applicable nondiscrimination laws. Consistent with State and Federal law, the System does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, transgender status, gender, gender identity or expression, ethnicity, national origin, citizenship status, familial status, ancestry, age, disability (physical or mental), genetic information, pregnancy, or veteran or military status in any aspect of its education, programs and activities, and employment. The System provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. If you believe you have experienced discrimination or harassment, you are encouraged to contact the System Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX Services at 5713 Chadbourne Hall, Room 412, Orono, ME 04469-5713, by calling 207.581.1226, or via TTY at 711 (Maine Relay System). For more information about Title IX or to file a complaint, please contact the UMS Title IX Coordinator at www.maine.edu/title-ix/.

Clery Act:

The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, or Clery Act, mandates that all Title IV institutions, such as the University, prepare, publish, and distribute an Annual Security Report (ASR), and provide notice of the availability of the ASR to all prospective employees. This report consists of two basic parts: disclosure of the University’s crime statistics for the past three calendar years; and disclosures regarding the University’s current campus security policies. View the University’s Annual Security Report (PDF). If you wish to have a paper copy of the ASR or need to have a copy of the ASR in an accessible format, the University will provide such a copy upon request. Please contact our Public Safety Office at 207.780.5211.