New

Communications Specialist

California Institute of Technology
vision insurance, parental leave, paid time off, sick time, tuition reimbursement
United States, California, Pasadena
May 21, 2025
Caltech is a world-renowned science and engineering institute that marshals some of the world's brightest minds and most innovative tools to address fundamental scientific questions. We thrive on finding and cultivating talented people who are passionate about what they do. Join us and be a part of the diverse Caltech community. Job Summary Caltech/IPAC's Communication and Education team is seeking a limited term, full-time Communications specialist with a focus on communicating the science and engineering designs of space telescopes. This two-month summer position is for a candidate with an understanding of Architectural Engineering, and a desire to expand their experience and impact in public outreach, communications and education. This will be an in-person work opportunity on the Caltech campus during July and August 2025. IPAC, part of the Physics, Math, and Astronomy Division at Caltech (www.caltech.edu), provides science operations, user support, data and archive services, and scientific vision to maximize discovery with observatories both in space and on the ground. The IPAC Communications and Education team works with researchers at IPAC, JPL and international partnerships to develop, document and communicate mission stories and general science education via press releases, imagery, audio, video, and VR experiences. IPAC has stories to tell, and we invite you to be a part of the team that finds and tells these stories! Job Responsibilities As a Communications specialist, you will work collaboratively in an active, creative, and strategic environment with team members and scientists and project members from the missions and projects with IPAC involvement. Your collaborative work will develop communications that may include interactives, features, graphics, multimedia and more. The goals include representing both science drivers and engineering design choices of select space-telescope missions with IPAC involvement. Basic Qualifications If you have the following in your background, then we want to hear about your interest in joining our team: At least 2 years of undergraduate studies in engineering design or architectural engineering. Training or experience in electrical, lighting, mechanical, and structural systems, and how systems interact. Strong teamwork, collaboration, verbal and written communication, along with demonstrated creativity and problem-solving capabilities. Experience or training in graphic design. A passion for science communication and community engagement. Preferred Qualifications Beyond these basic qualifications, there are a set of skills and experiences which will add to your ability to contribute to the roles and responsibilities of an IPAC/ICE Communications specialist. The following might give you a head-start here, but even if these do not describe you or your experience, we would still like to hear from you: Entry level or beyond experience with Python, Excel, Microsoft Word Entry level or beyond experience AutoCAD and Adobe Photoshop Experience working with scientists to develop content for the general public. Required Documents Resume. Optional Document Cover letter. Hiring Range $18.50 - $21.25 Per Hour The salary of the finalist(s) selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, internal equity, experience, education, specialty and training. As one of the largest employers in Pasadena, CA, Caltech is committed to providing comprehensive benefits to eligible employees and their eligible dependents. Our benefits package includes competitive compensation, health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement savings plans, generous paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick time, parental leave, bereavement, etc.), tuition reimbursement, and more. Non-benefit eligible employees will have access to some benefits such as onsite counseling and sick time. Learn more about our benefits and staff perks. EEO Statement We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Caltech is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor. To read more Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) go to eeoc_self_print_poster.pdf. Disability Accommodations If you would like to request an accommodation in completing this application, interviewing, or otherwise participating in the employee selection process, please direct your inquiries to Caltech Recruiting at employment@caltech.edu.