Description of the position
In this part-time position, you, as the CASCA Westar Coordinator, will manage the revamped Westar Exchange program. You will establish and maintain long-term relationships with underserved communities; help to plan and support exchanges between CASCA astronomers and these communities; and work with the Westar subcommittee and other groups across Canada doing similar outreach.
Your responsibilities:
- Making connections with underserved communities, and maintaining these relationships
- Learning the important customs, practices, and protocols of these communities
- Liasing with the CASCA Westar subcommittee and other groups across Canada doing similar outreach work.
- Working with underserved communities to arrange visits (online or in-person) of CASCA astronomers
- Helping CASCA astronomers to prepare for their visits, including travel and accommodation, and carrying out or arranging appropriate training (EDI, Indigeneity, cultural sensitivity)
- Debriefing the astronomers after their visits, to help improve future visits
- Putting out calls to the Canadian astronomical community to find those interested in becoming Westar visitors
- Maintaining/updating the Westar Exchange website
- Time permitting, doing fundraising to sustain the Westar Exchange program
Qualifications and requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in physics, astronomy, journalism, communication, education, Indigenous studies or another relevant discipline
- Experience in working with underserved communities
- Familiarity with EDI principles
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Patience and ability to work with diverse groups of people
- Basic familiarity with Office software
- A computer with Office software and internet access
- Proficiency in written and spoken French and English
- Knowledge of website editing, video or graphic software, and social medial management would be an asset
- Fundraising experience would be an asset
- Knowledge of astronomy would be an asset
- We encourage applications from women, visible and ethnic minorities, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, and persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity
Location:
This position is fully remote.
Hours per week, Salary, and Length of position:
This is initially a three-year position. The annual salary will be $12,000 in the first year, corresponding to 8 hours/week. In the second and third years the salary will be $9000, corresponding to 6 hours/week. This position is renewable subject to the availability of funds and satisfactory performance.
Anticipated Start Date:
The anticipated start date for this position is Oct 1, 2023
Application Process and Closing Date:
Please email a CV and cover letter to Westar Chair Terry Bridges (tbridges@okanagan.bc.ca), with the title “CASCA Westar Coordinator Application”. Your cover letter should include an EDI statement, and your experience with outreach and fundraising. Interviews will be conducted online (Zoom, Skype, or telephone) after the closing date.
The closing date for applications is Aug 1, 2023.