Astronomy Docent_Graduate & Undergraduate Students | Judy & Stanley Frankel Detroit Observatory at the University of Michigan 

The University of Michigan’s historic Detroit Observatory is dedicated to education and outreach on the celebratory and critical history of the University (including the University as a case study for broader historical issues) and historic and contemporary astronomical sciences. Our student docent program — open to undergraduate and graduate U-M students — plays a vital role in fulfilling this mission. Docents assist with events, programs and presentations for groups and visitors, development of exhibits and presentations, facilitation of visitors’ experiences, and generally supporting the work of the Observatory. More information about the Observatory can be found at https://detroitobservatory.umich.edu.

This posting concerns docents who would be primarily involved with astronomy-related programming and operation of the Observatory's telescopes. 

All student docents receive extensive paid training in information and operations relevant to their positions, including U-M and Observatory history, presentation techniques, tour guidance, Observatory technology, customer service, and more.

Responsibilities of Astronomy

Astronomy Docents will be asked to perform some or all of the following duties. Student preferences and abilities as well as Observatory needs will be taken into account in the assignment of duties.

• Greet and assist visitors to the Observatory

• Act as tour guides and presenters for tours of the Observatory

• Operate historic Fitz refracting telescope and portable telescopes

• Assist in development of educational programs on telescopes and other technology in the Observatory

• Assist with Observatory events, including set-up/take-down, registration, on-site event support

• Provide office assistance and scheduling support

• May occasionally assist fellow docents with work in other areas

Required Qualifications

• Enthusiasm for Astronomy, Science, and History

• Enjoys working with the public and students

• Enjoys learning and sharing what they learn

• Able to communicate effectively with diverse audiences

• Available at least 10 hours/week on average over at least two days a week

• Available to work occasional evenings and weekends

• Willingness to have a flexible schedule

Appointment Information

• Graduate pay is $17/hour and undergraduate pay is $15/hour

• Position hours are based on the needs of the department and budgets

• All combined U-M appointment working  hours cannot exceed 29 hours per week

• Upon graduation, a student may only work an additional 6 months for the Observatory