Careers

MOONSHOT MUSEUM MISSION OPERATIONS COORDINATOR 

Reports to: Manager of Operations & Visitor Services

Status: Full Time, Exempt

Salary: starting at $34,000 annually

SUMMARY/ OBJECTIVE: 

Moonshot Museum made history in October 2022 as Pennsylvania’s first space museum and the only museum in the world where visitors can watch a real lunar spacecraft being built while exploring the future of human space exploration. Through immersive exhibitions, engaging educational experiences, and partnerships across the aerospace industry, the museum inspires people of all ages to find their place in the future of space exploration.

Reporting to the Manager of Operations & Visitor Services, the Mission Operations Coordinator provides operational, administrative, admissions, retail, and visitor services support that keeps the museum running smoothly. This position helps maintain museum readiness, supports department operations, coordinates retail and inventory functions, and contributes to an exceptional visitor experience.

The ideal candidate is organized, dependable, proactive, and committed to delivering excellent service while supporting a collaborative team environment.

Essential Knowledge, Skills, & Qualifications

The successful candidate will demonstrate:

• Passion for Moonshot Museum’s mission and commitment to exceptional visitor service.
• Strong organization, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Professionalism, initiative, sound judgment, accountability, and confidentiality.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office 365, Google Workspace, and the ability to quickly learn museum software and technology.
• Experience with Shopify, point of sale systems, inventory management, or similar software preferred.
• One to two years of experience in customer service, retail, hospitality, museum operations, nonprofit administration, or a related field preferred.
• Ability to work independently while contributing to a collaborative team environment.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Operations Administration

• Provide day to day administrative support to the Manager of Operations & Visitor Services.
• Manage departmental email, operational records, reports, spreadsheets, databases, and tracking systems.
• Assist with scheduling, volunteer coordination, purchasing, vendor communication, inventory tracking, and operational documentation.
• Prepare reports, meeting materials, presentations, and departmental forms.
• Maintain organized digital and physical filing systems.
• Support departmental projects and continuous improvement initiatives.

Museum Operations & Visitor Services

• Open and close the museum following established procedures.
• Conduct daily operational readiness walkthroughs and ensure exhibits, technology, admissions, and retail areas are prepared for visitors.
• Welcome visitors, answer phones, respond to general inquiries, and process admissions, memberships, retail purchases, and group payments.
• Maintain clean, organized, stocked, and visitor ready galleries, admissions, retail spaces, public areas, break areas, and restrooms through routine inspections, light cleaning, and replenishment of supplies.
• Monitor facility appearance, report maintenance concerns, and assist with basic exhibit and technology troubleshooting.

Retail & Inventory Operations

• Maintain an attractive, organized, and fully stocked museum store.
• Process retail transactions, fulfill online orders, receive deliveries, organize merchandise, and maintain accurate inventory records.
• Monitor inventory levels, assist with merchandising and seasonal displays, reconcile inventory, and communicate restocking needs.

Programs, Groups, & Events

• Prepare museum spaces, classrooms, materials, and supplies for field trips, outreach programs, museum rentals, and special events.
• Coordinate group check in, attendance verification, payments, and operational logistics.
• Support event setup, admissions, retail operations, guest services, and event breakdown.
• Assist educators, Mission Specialists, volunteers, and partners with operational needs before, during, and after programs.

Team Support

• Participate in staff meetings and training.
• Cross train in operational responsibilities to support departmental coverage.
• Recommend improvements to operational workflows and the visitor experience.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• One to two years of relevant customer service, administrative, retail, hospitality, museum, or nonprofit experience preferred.
• Strong computer proficiency and ability to learn new software systems.
• Ability to work the required schedule, including occasional evenings, weekends, holidays, and special events.
• Ability to lift up to 30 pounds and remain standing and moving throughout much of the workday.

Physical & Work Environment

This position requires standing, walking, lifting up to 30 pounds, bending, reaching, climbing stairs, and performing light cleaning and organizational tasks throughout the museum. The Mission Operations Coordinator works in a dynamic public environment with visitors, school groups, volunteers, educators, vendors, and community partners. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Professional Expectations

The Mission Operations Coordinator is expected to:

• Demonstrate professionalism, reliability, accountability, and initiative.
• Produce accurate, high quality work while protecting confidential information.
• Communicate respectfully with visitors, volunteers, vendors, and colleagues.
• Take ownership of assigned responsibilities and support departmental priorities.
• Maintain clean, organize, safe, and visitor and employee ready spaces.
• Contribute to a positive, collaborative workplace culture.

Why Join Moonshot Museum?

Every team member plays an important role in inspiring the next generation of explorers, innovators, and problem solvers. As the Mission Operations Coordinator, you’ll gain experience in museum operations, visitor services, admissions, retail management, nonprofit administration, and event logistics while helping deliver memorable experiences at one of the most innovative museums in the world.

We are looking for someone who wants to become a trusted member of our team and grow within a mission driven organization. If you are dependable, organized, service oriented, and committed to operational excellence, we encourage you to apply.

To Apply:

Submit and application via LinkedIn Jobs or email a cover letter and resumé to jobs@moonshotmuseum.org.

Employees of the Astrobotic Foundation must also be capable of completing and passing:

·      Pennsylvania State Police (PA Access to Criminal History) PATCH Record Check

·      Pennsylvania Child Abuse History Certification Check

·      FBI Fingerprint Clearance

It is Moonshot Museum’s policy to hire and promote qualified people and administer all terms and conditions of employment without discrimination due to race, religion, color, sex (including pregnancy, sex assigned at birth, sexual orientation, transgender identity, gender transition, gender expression, and gender identity), national origin, ancestry, place of birth, disability, age, genetic information, use of a guide or support animal, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, or other protected-class status.

Moonshot Museum does not discriminate based on disability in admission or access to, or employment in, its programs and activities. If you need a reasonable accommodation to enable you to complete the application process, please send a request via email to jobs@moonshotmuseum.org.

Moonshot Museum Summer Internship Program

Location: Pittsburgh, PA (Hybrid – onsite, community-based, and remote work)

Eligibility: High School and College Students

Company Description

Moonshot Museum is Pennsylvania’s first museum dedicated entirely to space exploration. The museum’s mission is to make space accessible to all and inspire individuals to shape the future of human space exploration and settlement. Through engaging programming and interactive exhibits, the museum aims to spark curiosity and innovation in STEAM fields. Located in Pittsburgh, PA, Moonshot Museum partners with space industry leaders to provide visitors with unique behind-the-scenes experiences and educational opportunities.

Program Structure

College Track:

• Duration: 10 weeks
• Expected Commitment: 10–12 hours/week
• Compensation: $1,400–$1,600 stipend

High School Track:

• Duration: 8 weeks
• Expected Commitment: 8–10 hours/week
• Compensation: $800–$1,000 stipend

Category: Education & Programs

Primary: Mike Hennessy, Manager of Learning & Programs

Secondary: Stephanie Carlson, Lead Navigator

Role Description

The STEAM Programs & Space Education Intern is a full-time hybrid role based in Pittsburgh, PA, with some work-from-home flexibility. The intern will assist in the development, coordination, and delivery of STEAM-based educational experiences and programs for museum visitors of various ages. Tasks include supporting program management, conducting training for participants, assisting in visitor engagement, providing high-quality customer service, and analyzing program feedback for continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• High school or college student with interest in STEM, education, or youth engagement
• Must be based in the Pittsburgh region
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Comfortable engaging with diverse audiences
• Reliable and able to work both independently and as part of a team
• Experience in Program Management and an ability to organize and coordinate multiple educational initiatives effectively.
• Excellent Communication skills, both written and verbal, to engage with diverse audiences and convey complex information clearly.
• Ability to guide and support participants in educational activities.
• Strong Customer Service skills to create positive visitor experiences and respond to inquiries with professionalism.
• Passion for space exploration and STEAM education is highly desirable.

Application Questions

1. What draws you to Moonshot Museum, and how do you see this experience contributing to your personal and professional growth?
2. Moonshot Museum is focused on making space accessible to all. What does access mean to you, and how would you help create that experience for visitors?
3. Describe a time when you had to explain something new or complex to someone. How did you approach it?
4. Tell us about a time you took initiative without being asked. What did you do and what was the outcome?
5. This role involves engaging with visitors of all ages and backgrounds. How would you make someone feel comfortable and included in a learning experience?
6. Describe a time you worked as part of a team to achieve a goal. What role did you naturally take on, and why?
7. What is one skill you are currently working to improve, and how are you actively developing it?

Program Details 

• Hybrid structure: onsite at Moonshot Museum, community-based programming, and remote work

Interns will have opportunities to contribute across multiple departments, ensuring a well-rounded, hands-on experience aligned with Moonshot Museum’s mission and impact.

How to Apply

Applicants should submit their resume (or CV, if applicable) and responses to the application questions to jobs@moonshotmuseum.org with the subject line: STEAM Programs & Space Education Intern

Moonshot Museum Summer Internship Program

Location: Pittsburgh, PA (Hybrid – onsite, community-based, and remote work)

Eligibility: High School and College Students

Company Description

Moonshot Museum is Pennsylvania’s first museum dedicated entirely to space exploration. The museum’s mission is to make space accessible to all and inspire individuals to shape the future of human space exploration and settlement. Through engaging programming and interactive exhibits, the museum aims to spark curiosity and innovation in STEAM fields. Located in Pittsburgh, PA, Moonshot Museum partners with space industry leaders to provide visitors with unique behind-the-scenes experiences and educational opportunities.

Program Structure

College Track:

• Duration: 10 weeks
• Expected Commitment: 10–12 hours/week
• Compensation: $1,400–$1,600 stipend

High School Track:

• Duration: 8 weeks
• Expected Commitment: 8–10 hours/week
• Compensation: $800–$1,000 stipend

Category: Operations

Primary: Sonjia Hoston, Manager of Operations & Visitor Services

Secondary: Stephanie Carlson, Lead Navigator

Company Description

Moonshot Museum is Pennsylvania’s only museum dedicated exclusively to space exploration, inspiring the next generation to lead the future of human space exploration and settlement. Located in Pittsburgh, PA, it engages visitors with innovative exhibits and interactive experiences that make space accessible to all. With a mission to ignite curiosity and creativity, Moonshot Museum serves as a hub for learning and discovery about the universe and humanity’s role within it.

Role Description

This is a hybrid internship role for a Visitor Experience & Mission Operations Intern located in Pittsburgh, PA, with some work-from-home flexibility. The intern will assist in delivering exceptional visitor experiences, support operational tasks, and help facilitate educational programming. Responsibilities include welcoming visitors, providing museum tours or interpretation, managing ticketing and gift shop operations, and assisting with event planning and execution.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Welcome visitors and assist with admissions and check-in
• Provide guidance and support visitor flow throughout the museum
• Assist with setup and breakdown of programs and events
• Support organization of materials and operational spaces
• Contribute to a positive, efficient, and engaging visitor experience

Qualifications

• Strong communication and customer service skills to engage with diverse audiences and ensure a positive visitor experience
• Organization and multitasking skills to manage operational duties and support events effectively
• Interest in space exploration, STEAM education, and public engagement
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team in a fast-paced environment
• Previous experience in museums, customer service, or education is a plus
• Flexible schedule, including occasional availability on evenings or weekends, as needed

Application Questions

1. What draws you to a visitor experience and operations role at Moonshot Museum, and how do you see yourself contributing to the overall guest experience?
2. At Moonshot Museum, every visitor interaction matters. How would you create a welcoming, engaging, and memorable experience for someone visiting for the first time?
3. Describe a time when you had to manage multiple responsibilities at once. How did you stay organized and ensure everything was completed effectively?
4. Tell us about a time you supported an event, program, or activity. What was your role, and what did you learn from that experience?
5. This role often requires working in fast-paced or high-traffic environments. How do you stay calm, focused, and professional under pressure?
6. Describe a situation where you had to assist or support someone (customer, peer, or guest). How did you handle it, and what was the outcome?
7. What does strong teamwork look like to you, and how do you contribute to a positive and efficient team environment?
8. What is one skill you are currently working to improve, and how are you actively developing it?

Program Details

• Hybrid structure: onsite at Moonshot Museum, community-based programming, and remote work
• Opportunities to contribute across departments for a well-rounded, hands-on experience aligned with Moonshot Museum’s mission

How to Apply

Submit your resume (or CV) and responses to the application questions to:

jobs@moonshotmuseum.org with the subject line: Visitor Experience & Mission Operations Intern

Moonshot Museum Summer Internship Program

Location: Pittsburgh, PA (Hybrid – onsite, community-based, and remote work)

Eligibility: High School and College Students

Company Description

Moonshot Museum is Pennsylvania’s first museum dedicated exclusively to space, with a mission to make space exploration accessible and inspire visitors to shape the future of human space exploration and settlement. As a forward-thinking institution, the museum emphasizes education, creativity, and innovation in the field of space sciences. Through immersive exhibits and hands-on experiences, Moonshot Museum aims to spark curiosity and provide opportunities for individuals to imagine themselves as part of the space economy. Joining the museum means being a part of a team committed to empowering future space explorers and innovators.

Program Structure

College Track:

• Duration: 10 weeks
• Expected Commitment: 10–12 hours/week
• Compensation: $1,400–$1,600 stipend

High School Track:

• Duration: 8 weeks
• Expected Commitment: 8–10 hours/week
• Compensation: $800–$1,000 stipend

Category

Communications & Marketing

Primary: Sonjia Hoston, Manager of Operations

Secondary: Mike Hennessy, Manager of Learning & Programs

Role Description

This is an internship position for a Digital Media & Space Communications Intern. The intern will assist with the development and implementation of digital strategies, manage various digital channels, create engaging social media content, and support marketing campaigns aligned with the museum’s mission. Responsibilities include analyzing digital performance metrics, assisting with project coordination, and supporting communication initiatives to promote the museum’s mission. This is a hybrid role; while based in Pittsburgh, PA, there is flexibility for remote work on certain tasks.

Qualifications

• High school or college student interested in communications, marketing, media, or a related field
• Must be based in the Pittsburgh region
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to contribute to effective messaging and outreach
• Creative thinker with an interest in storytelling and digital content
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret digital performance metrics and identify trends
• Knowledge of digital strategy and digital marketing concepts, tools, and best practices
• Project management skills to support the planning and execution of campaigns and initiatives
• Proficient in social media platforms, content creation tools, and or analytics software
• Ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively in a team environment
• Organized, adaptable, and comfortable working in a fast-paced environment

Preferred:

• Experience with social media, content creation, or digital marketing tools
• Interest in STEAM, science communication, or the aerospace industry
• Currently pursuing or recently completed a degree in Marketing, Communications, Media Studies, or a related field
• Passion for space exploration and education

What You’ll Gain

• Hands-on experience in digital storytelling and content creation
• Exposure to science communication and STEAM outreach
• A portfolio of work connected to real programs and initiatives
• Insight into how organizations build brand, share impact, and engage audiences

Application Questions

1. What draws you to digital storytelling and communications at Moonshot Museum, and how do you see your voice or perspective contributing to our mission?
2. Moonshot Museum is focused on making space accessible to all. How would you translate that mission into engaging digital content for different audiences?
3. Share an example of content you’ve created (social media, video, writing, design, etc.). What was your goal, and how did you measure its impact or success?
4. Describe a time when you had to communicate an idea, story, or message to an audience. How did you approach it, and what was the outcome?
5. If you were asked to promote a new Moonshot program or event, what type of content would you create and why?
6. How do you stay current with trends in social media, digital marketing, or content creation, and how would you apply that to this role?
7. Describe a time you managed multiple tasks, deadlines, or projects at once. How did you stay organized and ensure quality work?
8. What is one skill you are currently developing related to communications, marketing, or content creation, and how are you improving it?

Program Details

• Hybrid structure: onsite at Moonshot Museum, community-based programming, and remote work
• Opportunities to contribute across multiple departments for a well-rounded, hands-on experience aligned with Moonshot Museum’s mission and impact

How to Apply

Submit your resume (or CV) and responses to the application questions to:

jobs@moonshotmuseum.org with the subject line: Digital Media & Space Communications Intern

Moonshot Museum Summer Internship Program

Location: Pittsburgh, PA (Hybrid – onsite, community-based, and remote work)

Eligibility: High School and College Students

Company Description

Moonshot Museum, located in Pennsylvania, is the state’s first museum dedicated solely to space exploration. Its mission is to make space accessible to all and inspire individuals to shape the future of human space exploration and settlement. The museum fosters learning opportunities and experiences for diverse audiences, enabling people to explore the possibilities of space and innovation in meaningful ways.

Program Structure

College Track:

• Duration: 10 weeks
• Expected Commitment: 10–12 hours/week
• Compensation: $1,400–$1,600 stipend

High School Track:

• Duration: 8 weeks
• Expected Commitment: 8–10 hours/week
• Compensation: $800–$1,000 stipend

Category: Community Partnerships & Outreach

Primary: Stephanie Carlson, Lead Navigator

Secondary: Sonjia Hoston, Manager of Operations

Role Description

This Community Engagement & Space Workforce Intern position is a hybrid internship located in Pittsburgh, PA, with opportunities for some remote work. The intern will assist in developing and delivering community-focused programs, engage with museum visitors, and support outreach initiatives. Responsibilities include fostering relationships with community organizations, assisting in event coordination, managing communication strategies, and supporting educational programming related to the space industry.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Assist with outreach coordination and partner communication
• Support community events and external programming
• Help prepare materials for outreach and workforce initiatives
• Track and support partnership engagement activities
• Contribute to efforts focused on increasing access to STEM careers
• Engage with visitors and community stakeholders during programs and events

Qualifications

• High school or college student interested in community engagement, education, leadership, or public service
• Must be based in the Pittsburgh region
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and customer service skills
• Experience or interest in community engagement or community-focused work
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail and ability to manage multiple tasks
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment
• Interest in science, education, public engagement, or workforce development
• Familiarity with or interest in space exploration and STEM fields

Preferred:

• Experience with community service, leadership roles, or outreach initiatives
• Interest in workforce development or education systems
• Enrollment in or recent completion of a degree in Communications, Education, Public Relations, or a related field

What You’ll Gain

• Exposure to workforce development and STEAM career pathways
• Experience supporting partnerships and community engagement initiatives
• Insight into how access to the space industry is expanded
• Professional communication, coordination, and relationship-building skills

Application Questions

1. What draws you to community engagement and outreach work, and how do you see this role connecting to your personal or professional goals?
2. Moonshot Museum is focused on expanding access to space and STEAM opportunities. What does access mean to you, and how would you help create it for communities that may not traditionally have it?
3. Describe a time when you built or contributed to a relationship within your school or community. What was your role, and what was the outcome?
4. Tell us about a time you were involved in planning or supporting an event, program, or initiative. How did you contribute, and what did you learn from that experience?
5. This role involves engaging with diverse audiences and community partners. How would you approach connecting with individuals or organizations who may be unfamiliar with Moonshot Museum?
6. Describe a situation where you had to communicate clearly or represent a group, organization, or idea. How did you ensure your message was understood?
7. Community engagement work often involves managing multiple relationships and responsibilities. How do you stay organized and follow through on commitments?
8. What is one skill you are currently working to improve related to leadership, communication, or community engagement, and how are you developing it?

Program Details

• Hybrid structure: onsite at Moonshot Museum, community-based programming, and remote work
• Opportunities to contribute across multiple departments for a well-rounded, hands-on experience aligned with Moonshot Museum’s mission and impact

How to Apply

Submit your resume (or CV) and responses to the application questions to: jobs@moonshotmuseum.org with the subject line: Community Engagement & Space Workforce Intern