Outreach and Education Coordinator

Job Summary
The Ritchie Observatory is a small, community-focused observatory on Bainbridge Island dedicated to inspiring curiosity and wonder in astronomy and the sciences. We offer a variety of educational programs, star parties, planetarium shows, and public lectures to foster engagement with STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) disciplines for learners of all ages.

The Ritchie Observatory is operated by the Battle Point Astronomical Association (BPAA), a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering public interest in astronomy and science education. Located on Bainbridge Island, the observatory serves as the centerpiece for the BPAA’s community programs, educational workshops, and stargazing events.

The Observatory Outreach and Development Coordinator oversees membership programs, manages volunteer engagement, coordinates fundraising efforts, and leads the planning and execution of fundraising and member events. This position also oversees any fundraising consultant contracts and collaborates closely with the Board Chair for fundraising and event initiatives.

Duties

Membership Management:

• Develop and implement strategies to grow and retain membership
• Manage member benefits, renewal campaigns, and membership communications
• Organize membership appreciation events and special programs to foster engagement
• Oversee membership database and the volunteer(s) that help maintain it

Volunteer Program Oversight:

• Recruit and manage volunteers for public programs, fundraising, and observatory operations
• Develop and implement a volunteer engagement plan to promote retention and recognition
• Ensure volunteers have the resources and support needed to fulfill their roles effectively
• Utilize Volunteer Management System to maintain volunteer calendar, manage volunteer applications, and run reports

Fundraising and Development:

• Help to design, plan, and execute fundraising campaigns, including annual giving, grant applications, and donor solicitation efforts
• Oversee fundraising consultant contracts to ensure alignment with the observatory’s goals
• Identify and cultivate donor relationships to build sustained giving.
• Plan and manage all fundraising and donor appreciation events, such as benefit dinners, auctions, and galas
• Collaborate closely with the Board Chair and Board of Directors to support development goals and initiatives

Event Coordination:

• Oversee planning and logistics for fundraising and member events
• Ensure events are well-promoted, engaging, and executed smoothly
• Work closely with the Planetarium Manager and Programming Coordinator to coordinate event schedules and resources
• Create post-event evaluations and implement improvements based on feedback

Communications and Outreach:

• Develop and manage a comprehensive communication plan to promote the observatory’s programs, membership, and fundraising events.
• Oversee website updates, newsletters, social media, and marketing materials.
• Act as the observatory’s primary contact for media and public relations.
• Build partnerships with local schools, community organizations, and media outlets to increase outreach and visibility.

Experience

• Strong organizational, leadership, and project management skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience in fundraising, event planning, and donor relations.
• Experience working with volunteers, members, and diverse community stakeholders.
• Familiarity with customer relationship management (CRM) systems and fundraising platforms is a plus.
• Passion for astronomy, science education, or community engagement is highly desirable.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends as required for events.

Ritchie Observatory is an equal opportunity employer and encourages individuals from diverse backgrounds to contribute to our mission. This position plays a critical role in helping Ritchie Observatory build a vibrant community inspired by the wonders of the universe through its fundraising, membership, and community engagement programs.

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: $26.00 - $28.00 per hour

Expected hours: 20 – 25 per week

Benefits:

• Flexible schedule

Schedule:

• 4 hour shift
• Monday to Friday
• Weekends as needed

Ability to Commute:

• Bainbridge Island, WA 98110 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Bainbridge Island, WA 98110: Relocate before starting work (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $26 - $28