Specialist - Astronomy

Job Information

Job Title: Astronomy Specialist
Reports to: Astronomy Supervisor
Division: RSSE
Department: Akun
Job Grade: Specialist I
Job Code: SP4

Job Purpose

The Astronomy Specialist is a site-based role responsible for supporting the readiness, maintenance, and delivery of astronomy experience assets across The Red Sea destinations, including both inland and island locations. This position combines guest-facing duties with back-of-house operational responsibilities.

The specialist ensures all astronomy equipment—including manual and computerized telescopes of various mounts—is fully functional, properly maintained, and prepared for guest use. The role requires expert knowledge in visual and photographic observation techniques, as well as routine and deep maintenance of telescopes and binoculars.

In addition, the Astronomy Specialist will collaborate closely with the astronomy team to support smooth daily operations, contribute to developing astronomy experiences, and assist in delivering exceptional guest programs in alignment with Red Sea Global standards and regulations.

Job Responsibilities

General

• Report to the Senior Astronomy Guide and support the daily operations of astronomy tours and experiences.

• Assist in developing procedures related to astronomy tours, events, festivals, and experiences.

• Maintain a professional appearance of all astronomy structures and assets.

• Work across multiple destinations within The Red Sea region.

• Support trip planning, equipment preparation, and vehicle coordination.

Experience Growth

• Work with the Astronomy Supervisor and guides to enhance and develop astronomy tours, events, festivals, and experiences, including optics selection and assessment.

• Collaborate with procurement and back-of-house teams on equipment acquisition.

• Support delivery-phase activities, ensuring operational readiness and aligned project outcomes.

• Build a strong understanding of all planned astronomy experiences, structures, and observation sites.

• Stay informed about relevant RSSE standards and updates.

• Contribute to the development of unique astronomy experiences across The Red Sea.

• Participate in site exploration to identify optimal experience locations and ensure premium guest delivery.

Operational

• Support operations and delivery of all inland and island-based astronomy experiences.

• Provide pre-experience briefings to guests.

• Guide guests during observation sessions, share astronomy insights, and ensure safety.

• Promote environmental and dark sky conservation by educating guests on responsible behavior.

• Follow all safety protocols including first aid, risk assessments, and emergency procedures.

• Maintain all equipment in clean, functional condition, including venues and associated assets.

• Operate powered and manual telescopes of various types and dimensions.

• Customize lens and filter setups to provide optimal celestial viewing.

• Lead stargazing, telescope viewings, and astrophotography activities.

• Explain telescope and binocular usage and provide scientific context for observed objects.

• Conduct routine and deep maintenance on optical instruments and equipment.

• Support development and equipping of Red Sea observatories and observation sites.

• Participate in planning and execution of astronomy events and festivals.

• Ensure all venues are prepared and fully operational prior to guest arrival.

• Coordinate program design, telescope operation, and equipment needs with the astronomy team.

• Report schedules, guest feedback, site conditions, and logistics to RSSE senior managers.

• Work with Tour Assistants to set up and break down telescopes and other essential components.

• Communicate with Tour Assistants regarding timing, guest lists, and experience plans based on moon phases and weather.

• Stay updated on astronomy discoveries and advancements; ensure telescope software and versions are current.

• Perform checks on eyepieces and filters to ensure optimal condition.

• Maintain astrophotography equipment and produce regular photographs.

• Manage asset sheets, inventory, warranties, and vendor coordination for astronomy tools.

Policies, Systems, Processes, Standards & Reports

• Adhere to all relevant functional policies, processes, SOPs, and instructions to ensure consistent and controlled work execution.

• Support the preparation of accurate reports and statements in line with corporate requirements.

• Provide feedback and support to management.

• Understand and follow company SOPs and RAMS methodologies.

Safety, Quality & Environment

• Apply all safety, environmental, and quality management procedures.

• Participate in regular review sessions with astronomy guides to update experience delivery operations.

Continuous Improvement

• Contribute to the continuous improvement of departmental systems, processes, and practices, incorporating international best practices, cost efficiency, and enhanced productivity.

Job Stakeholders (Relationship)

Internal:
(As determined by RSSE internal structure)

External:
(As applicable to vendors, partners, or guests)

Job Requirements

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Tourism, Hospitality, Business Management, Astronomy, Physics, Environment, or a related field.

• Minimum 2 years of experience in the tourism industry (experience in Saudi Arabia preferred).

• Minimum 2 years of experience handling optical instruments.

• Proven track record in astronomy-related activities.

• Experience operating telescopes of various types and large apertures.

• Experience in routine and deep telescope maintenance, including mirror collimation.

• Knowledge of astronomy tour concepts, events, festivals, and experience development.

• Strong understanding of astronomy optics and observation techniques.

• Experience in astrophotography and relevant tools.

• Wilderness First Aid or internationally recognized First Aid certification.

Essential Skills

• Excellent written and spoken Arabic and English.

• Strong customer service orientation and a proactive “can-do” attitude.

• Flexible, open-minded, self-motivated, and able to meet deadlines.

• Strong knowledge of the tourism industry and high-end experience delivery.

• Good knowledge of astronomy equipment.

• Excellent time management and attention to detail.

• Ability to work effectively with diverse cultures, nationalities, and age groups.

• Ability to operate in luxury resort environments and follow hospitality standards.

• Strong judgment, discretion, and confidentiality.

• Proficient in Microsoft Office.

• Keen interest in astronomy, research, conservation, and education.

• Ability to assist with astronomy program administration and planning.

• Ability to manage guest requests and resolve complaints professionally.

• Serve as a role model for colleagues.

• Adaptable to changing environments and capable of working independently or collaboratively.

Desirable Skills

• Additional spoken languages besides Arabic and English.

• Background in astronomy-related business operations.

• Experience in tour operations, health & safety, and diverse geographic locations.

• Interest or background in astronomy, environmental, or social conservation.

Job Context

• Highly knowledgeable in astronomy and advanced understanding of optical and photographic elements.

• Skilled with manual and computerized telescopes and binoculars.

• Strong grasp of experience program design and balance.

• Ability to anticipate guest needs and exceed expectations through experience delivery.

• Capable of efficient setup and retrieval of assets.

• Willingness to work nights, late nights, and travel across Red Sea sites for observations and specialized equipment use