"Planetarium & VR Program Instructor - Framingham State University"

Job Details

Location: Framingham, MA Category: Contract/Hourly Posted On: Fri Aug 22 2025

Job Description

GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES: The Instructor is a critical staff member of FSU's McAuliffe Simulation Laboratory (MSL). The McAuliffe Simulation Laboratory consists of a state-of-the-art digital planetarium and newly installed CAVE stereoscopic wall-projection virtual reality rooms.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED: Planetarium and Media Technologies Manager

SUPERVISION EXERCISED: N/A

EXAMPLES OF SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Perform and facilitate daily programs and activities for K-12 students and out-of-school time groups. Assist with hosting FSU undergraduate courses in collaboration with the Planetarium Manager and Faculty.
• Assist with the maintenance and operation of the computer systems of the MSL.
• Work with McAuliffe Center staff to revise and develop new VR-compatible planetarium shows using Unreal Engine and the Center's Sky-Skan planetarium platform. Prepare realtime 3D visuals, audio content, and special effects.
• Work with student interns and outside development organizations that support the work of the Center. Set a positive, professional example for junior staff and third-party groups.
• Assist with planning, facilitating, and executing major public programs, concerts, conferences, talks, and other special events at the Christa McAuliffe Center.
• Communicate effectively with K-16 students, University staff, teachers, community agencies, and the public as required by the role.
• Work with McAuliffe Center staff to assist in facilitating and planning weekend and summer science programs for K-12 students and teachers.
• Need to be available to occasionally work evening and weekends.
• Accountable for ensuring that affirmative action, equal opportunity and diversity are integrally tied to all actions and decisions in areas of responsibilities.

WORKING CONDITIONS: May have some lifting and moving. Must be available to work evening and weekend shifts.

Job Requirements

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• At least one of the following: Bachelor's degree or work experience in astronomy, physics, computer science, 3D content development, or a related field; Experience writing, programming, and deploying planetarium shows or virtual reality content; Strong knowledge of astronomy, physics, or 3D content development demonstrated through published work or other significant work experience and accomplishments.
• At least one of the following: Experience working in a major realtime 3D engine, such as Unreal Engine (preferred), Unity, Godot, or similar; Experience working with 3D modeling tools such as Blender (preferred), Cinema4D, Maya, 3ds Max, Zbrush, or similar; Good multimedia production skills, including basic image editing, audio editing, and familiarity with common 3D object formats.
• Commitment to a high standard of educational practice and scientific integrity.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: Candidates who are bilingual in English and Spanish or English and Portuguese are strongly encouraged to apply.

Additional Information

This is a part-time, non-benefited contract position, not to exceed 18 hours per week. The scheduled hours are [insert scheduled hours or flexible]. The pay rate is $25.00-$35.00 per hour. Framingham State University is an equal opportunity employer. The University considers all qualified candidates without regard to race, color, sex, age, national origin, disability status, Veteran status, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, genetic information, or any other characteristics protected by law. Members of underrepresented or minoritized groups, women, veterans, persons with disabilities, and all persons committed to equity, diversity, and inclusive excellence are strongly encouraged to apply.