Head Interpreter (Planetarium)
- H.R. MacMillan Space Centre
- Supervisory
- Full Time |
- Permanent
- 1100 Chestnut Street Vancouver, Vancouver
- 1 position available
- Accessible Employer: Yes
- Open to International applicants with valid Canadian Work permits: Yes

Job Description
Job Title: Head Interpreter (Planetarium)
Company: H.R. MacMillan Space Centre
Industry: Museum/Space Science Centre
Position Type: Full-Time
Location: 1100 Chestnut Street, Vancouver, BC. V6J 3J9
Salary: $23.38 per hour
Position Overview
This is a Full-Time educational and supervisory work in developing and delivering astronomy, space science and sustainability education programs and activities to groups and members of the public at the HR MacMillan Space Centre and at off-site programs under the direction of senior staff.
A Head Interpreter independently develops and presents a variety of assigned interpretive programs and activities for adults, family and children’s groups, and works with internal and external contacts to assist in planning and presenting specific programs and special events. A Head Interpreter also provides training, guidance and supervision to subordinates, volunteers and seasonal staff. Considerable independent judgement and action are exercised within established guidelines, while unusual problems and policy matters are referred to senior staff, who review work performance in terms of quality of services provided and effectiveness in dealing with the public.
About H.R. MacMillan Space Centre
• HR MacMillan Space Centre bring over 50 years of industry experience in the Museum and education industry. We provide a unique learning experience for schools and the public through our programs/shows, activities, demonstrations and interactive exhibit experience. We are a relatively small-sized lean crew that emphasizes the quality of our service and ensures the customer experience is top quality.
Our Commitment to Employment Equity
• At the HR MacMillan Space Centre we sincerely believe that diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) must be a part of how we function and operate as an organization. As such, were committed to ensuring that all qualified applicants regardless of race, colour, ancestry, place of origin, political belief, religion, marital status, family status, physical or mental disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, or any other identifiable characteristics are encouraged to apply for employment at the HR MacMillan Space Centre.
Responsibilities & Qualifications
Qualifications
• Valid BC Class 5 driver’s license
• Completion of a bachelor’s or associates degree in astronomy, space science, environmental sustainability related discipline plus some related experience or an equivalent combination of training and experience.
• Experience in working with children or an equivalent combination of training and experience is preferred.
• At least 1 year of prior museum or education-related experience is preferred.
• At least 1 year of prior experience in the use of Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook.
• Must be able to work in Canada.
• Must be able to communicate both written and verbally in English.
• Minimum of 19 years of age.
• Must be willing to work mornings, afternoons, evenings, overnights and weekends.
• Level 1 Certificate in First Aid.
Knowledge and Skills
• Working knowledge of the methods, procedures and techniques for developing and presenting interpretive programs and activities.
• Working knowledge of astronomy, space science and sustainability is an asset.
• Working knowledge of departmental goals and objectives.
• Ability to effectively present/deliver established interpretive programs and activities to children and adults.
• Ability to memorize scripts and educational materials for presentations/shows/programs.
• Ability to research subjects related to presentations.
• Able to work independently and in teams.
• Able to work under time constraints and in a timely manner.
• Prior customer service skill/experience is an asset.
• Basic knowledge of arts and crafts is an asset.
• Able to communicate effectively with children and adults; while leading group activities and providing instruction using educational, interpretive and persuasive techniques to promote the interest of the HR MacMillan Space Centre initiatives and events.
• Able to establish and maintain effective working relationships with a variety of internal and external contacts.
• Working knowledge of HR MacMillan Space Centre policies, regulations and equipment as they relate to the work performed.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Teams and Zoom is an asset.
• Must have the ability to maintain confidential information regarding clients, other employees; and the ability to adhere to the Space Centre’s confidentiality Agreement.
• Ability to perform supervisory duties and assisting in the training of junior staff, interpreters, volunteers and seasonal workers (i.e. temporary workers, interns and work experience students).
• Able to successfully complete training in various formats of our programming.
Working conditions
• Must be able to work on-site at the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre.
• Work atmosphere is professional and cordial.
• Regular travel may be required for the employee to the job sites of the Space Centre’s client(s) to deliver portable shows/programs to schools/environments that are within residential zones.
• The employee will report to the Learning Services Director.
Abilities and Physical Demands:
• Physically and emotionally fit to work.
• Able to deal with stressful plus emotionally demanding work as you will be engaging with and providing customer service for teachers, students, and the general public.
Compensation and Benefits:
• Salary starting at $23.38 (Pay Grade 16).
Work schedule:
• 5 days per week
• Mornings, Days, Evenings, and/or Overnight shifts on Weekdays or Weekends
• Onsite and outreach.
Training:
• On-site and on-the-job training
Salary/Wage
23.38
Job Application Process
To Apply, please email Resume to the HR and Operations Director (Monty Puaar): careers@spacecentre.ca
Apply Now