Astronomy Specialist

Devision: Sports and Entertainment

Department: AKUN

Compnay: Sports and Entertainment Compnay

From Land to Sea – Active Experiences in Nature's Purest Form

Red Sea Sports & Entertainment (RSSE) is a dedicated subsidiary of Red Sea Global (RSG), responsible for designing and delivering outstanding land and marine experiences at The Red Sea destination. RSSE manages and operates a diverse portfolio of sports, adventure, and leisure offerings, including water sports through Galaxea, adventure activities via Akun, and leisure experiences delivered by WAMA.

RSSE plays a key strategic role in the partnership between Red Sea Global and the Saudi Olympic & Paralympic Committee, united by a shared ambition to promote inclusive, accessible, and world-class sports and recreational experiences.

Guided by a purpose-driven approach and a strong commitment to people and the planet, RSSE delivers innovative programs aligned with Saudi Vision 2030, supporting the Kingdom's ambition to become a global leader in regenerative tourism.

Job Purpose

The Astronomy Specialist is a site-based role responsible for supporting the planning, readiness, and delivery of world-class astronomy experiences across The Red Sea destination, including both inland and island locations.

This role plays a critical part in ensuring all astronomy-related assets, equipment, and observation sites are fully operational and guest-ready, contributing to the delivery of exceptional, immersive, and educational stargazing experiences.

The position combines guest-facing responsibilities with technical and operational duties. The Astronomy Specialist is expected to demonstrate advanced expertise in operating a wide range of optical instruments—including manual and computerized telescopes—while maintaining the highest standards of safety, service excellence, and asset care.

In addition, the role supports the development and execution of astronomy programs, events, and experiences, while contributing to environmental awareness and dark-sky conservation initiatives aligned with Red Sea Global's vision.

Key Responsibilities

1. General Responsibilities

• Support the Senior Astronomy Guide in the effective delivery of astronomy tours, experiences, and operations.
• Assist in the development and implementation of operational procedures for astronomy-related programs, events, and festivals.
• Maintain the professional presentation and functionality of all astronomy facilities, assets, and observation sites.
• Operate across multiple destinations within The Red Sea as required.
• Support trip planning, logistics coordination, and preparation of equipment and vehicles.

2. Experience Development & Program Growth

• Collaborate with Astronomy Supervisors and Guides to enhance and expand astronomy experiences, including optics selection and evaluation.
• Support procurement activities related to astronomy tools and equipment.
• Contribute to cross-functional collaboration with internal departments to ensure seamless delivery of projects and operational readiness.
• Develop familiarity with all astronomy programs, observation sites, and infrastructure across the destination.
• Assist in identifying and evaluating new locations for astronomy experiences to ensure premium guest experiences.
• Contribute to the continuous development of innovative, high-end astronomy offerings aligned with destination objectives.

3. Operational Responsibilities

• Support the delivery of astronomy experiences across inland and island locations.
• Conduct pre-experience briefings and guide guests through astronomy activities, ensuring safety and engagement.
• Operate telescopes and binoculars for visual observation and astrophotography activities.
• Provide informative, engaging explanations of celestial objects and astronomy concepts tailored to diverse audiences.
• Ensure all equipment and venues are clean, functional, and prepared prior to guest use.
• Perform routine inspections, maintenance, and calibration of optical instruments, including collimation and software updates.
• Support setup, dismantling, and transportation of telescopes and related equipment across sites.
• Collaborate with Tour Assistants on logistics, timing, and program execution based on environmental conditions (e.g., moon phases, weather).
• Maintain accurate inventory records, asset tracking, and warranty documentation.
• Participate in the development and delivery of astronomy events, observatories, and festivals.
• Capture and maintain astrophotography outputs using specialized equipment.
• Stay updated on advancements in astronomy and related technologies to enhance program delivery.

4. Health, Safety, Environment & Quality

• Ensure full compliance with safety protocols, including risk assessments, emergency planning, and first aid readiness.
• Promote environmental stewardship and dark-sky conservation by educating guests on responsible practices.
• Adhere to all company policies, SOPs, and RAMS to ensure safe and consistent operations.
• Participate in regular operational reviews and continuous improvement initiatives.

5. Reporting & Communication

• Provide timely updates to senior management on operations, guest feedback, and site conditions.
• Prepare reports and documentation in line with corporate standards.
• Maintain effective communication with team members to ensure seamless coordination and execution.

Job Requirements

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Astronomy, Physics, Tourism, Hospitality, Environmental Science, or a related field.
• Minimum of 2 years experience in tourism, astronomy, or a related field (experience within Saudi Arabia is an advantage).
• Proven experience in operating and maintaining a variety of telescopes (manual and computerized), including large-aperture systems.
• Hands-on experience with optical instruments, including maintenance, mirror alignment (collimation), and calibration.
• Experience in astrophotography and related tools.
• Familiarity with astronomy programs, events, and experiential tourism concepts.
• Valid First Aid or Wilderness First Aid certification from a recognized provider.

Core Competencies

• Strong communication skills in both Arabic and English (written and spoken).
• Excellent customer service skills with the ability to engage high-end clientele.
• Strong technical knowledge of astronomy equipment and observational techniques.
• High attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Ability to work in dynamic, remote, and multi-site environments.
• Strong teamwork and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work across cultures.
• Self-motivated, adaptable, and capable of working independently.
• Professional demeanor aligned with luxury hospitality standards.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.

Desirable Skills

• Additional language proficiency.
• Experience in tourism operations across diverse geographic locations.
• Background in astronomy-related business or program development.
• Knowledge of health and safety practices in tour operations.
• Interest or background in environmental conservation and sustainability.

Job Context

• Advanced knowledge of astronomy principles, optics, and observational techniques.
• Strong understanding of guest experience design and delivery.
• Ability to balance technical execution with exceptional guest engagement.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings and late nights.
• Ability to travel frequently across The Red Sea destination.