Visitor Services Manager

The International Dark Sky Discovery Center (IDSDC) seeks an enthusiastic and adaptable Visitor Services Manager to help launch our soft opening phase and build the foundation for a world-class visitor experience. This position is ideal for someone who thrives in a dynamic environment and is excited to shape systems and experiences from the ground up.
As our first full-time hire beyond the executive team, the Visitor Services Manager will play a pivotal role in shaping how the public engages with IDSDC. Responsibilities include daily visitor operations, gift shop management, customer service, volunteer coordination, and responding to and managing facility rental requests and events. This role will evolve alongside the Center’s phased opening, with opportunities to grow and specialize as organizational needs change.

Key Responsibilities

Visitor Experience

• Serve as the primary point of contact for guests during public hours and special events.
• Monitor visitor flow, provide on-site support, and ensure a welcoming and accessible environment.
• Respond to guest feedback and maintain a high standard of service.

Admissions and Retail Operations

• Manage the front desk and gift shop, including setup, point of sales, purchasing, merchandising, and vendor relations.
• Track inventory and support the development of a retail strategy aligned with IDSDC’s mission.
• Train, schedule, and supervise volunteers to support daily operations.

Facility Rentals & Event Coordination

• Respond to inquiries about facility rentals for private and community events.
• Conduct site visits, coordinate logistics, and serve as the point of contact for rental clients.
• Track contracts, payments, and event follow-ups to ensure high satisfaction and repeat business.
• Support logistics for public programs, school visits, and special events as needed.

 

Operations & Facilities Coordination

• Maintain readiness of public-facing spaces, including safety, cleanliness, signage, and accessibility.
• Communicate facility-related needs to Executive Director and assist with vendor coordination during ongoing construction.

 

Qualifications

• Experience in visitor services, customer service, retail operations, event coordination, or related fields.
• Experience supervising volunteers or staff preferred.
• Strong interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills.
• Comfort with POS systems and office software (Google Workspace or Microsoft Office).
• A proactive, flexible mindset suited to a startup or phased-opening environment.
• Interest in astronomy, nature or informal science education a plus.
• Willingness to work evenings and weekends as programs expand.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods and lift up to 30 pounds.
• Frequent public interaction and computer-based tasks.
• Involves some work during nighttime hours aligned with programming and events.

 

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary: $70,000.
• Full benefits package including health insurance, paid time off, retirement, professional development opportunities, and more.

 

Growth Opportunity

This role offers significant opportunity for growth as IDSDC moves from soft opening to full-scale operations over several months. The successful candidate will have the chance to shape evolving systems and may take on increasing responsibility in areas such as visitor operations, facility rental strategy, and departmental leadership over time.

To Apply

If this opportunity excites you, even if you’re not sure you meet all the requirements, please submit a resume and cover letter outlining your interest and relevant experience to kcarlisle@darkskycenter.org.

Posted 06.25.2025. Open until filled.
 
International Dark Sky Discovery Center is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identify, national origin, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics.