Job Information
Job Title: Specialist - Astronomy
Reports To: Astronomy Supervisor
Division: RSSE
Department: Akun
Job Grade: Specialist I
Job Code: SP4
About Red Sea Sport & Entertainment
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 operating across The Red Sea destination, including both inland and island locations. The primary purpose of this role is to ensure the full readiness, operation, and delivery of high-quality astronomy experience assets, supporting the creation of memorable, premium guest experiences.
This position combines guest-facing operational delivery with back-of-house technical and asset management responsibilities. The Astronomy Specialist is accountable for the preparation, setup, operation, maintenance, and mobility of astronomy equipment to ensure safe, seamless, and engaging astronomy experiences for guests and guides alike.
Asset readiness is critical to delivering exceptional visitor impressions. The role requires a high level of technical expertise in handling a wide range of optical equipment, including manual and computerized telescopes with various mounts, as well as proficiency in both visual observation and astrophotography techniques.
The Astronomy Specialist will work closely with astronomy guides and internal teams to support smooth daily operations, assist in the development of astronomy programs, and contribute to the growth of a diverse and innovative inland and island-based astronomy offering across The Red Sea destination. All activities must be delivered in line with Red Sea Global policies, safety standards, and sustainability principles.
Job Responsibilities
General
- Report directly to the Senior Astronomy Guide and support the smooth delivery of astronomy tours and experiences, particularly in relation to observation tools and assets.
- Assist in the development and refinement of operational procedures for astronomy tours, events, festivals, and experiences.
- Ensure astronomy structures, venues, and assets are maintained to a professional and guest-ready standard at all times.
- Work across multiple destinations within The Red Sea, including inland and island locations.
- Support trip planning, coordination, and preparation of equipment, logistics, and vehicles.
Experience Development & Growth
- Collaborate with the Astronomy Supervisor and guides to develop and enhance astronomy tours, events, festivals, and experiences, including optics selection and assessment.
- Coordinate with procurement and back-of-house teams for the acquisition and replacement of astronomy tools and equipment.
- Support cross-functional collaboration with RSG departments during delivery phases to ensure operational targets and project milestones are achieved.
- Develop strong familiarity with planned astronomy programs, observation sites, and astronomy structures across the destination.
- Stay updated on relevant standards, policies, and operational updates across RSSE and astronomy activities.
- Contribute to the identification and exploration of new locations suitable for high-end astronomy experiences.
- Support the growth of unique, world-class astronomy and stargazing destinations across The Red Sea.
Operational Delivery
- Support and deliver astronomy experiences across inland and island destinations.
- Provide clear and engaging pre-experience briefings to guests.
- Lead guests at observing locations, ensuring their safety while sharing accurate and engaging astronomy knowledge.
- Educate guests on environmental responsibility, dark-sky conservation, and the protection of natural habitats.
- Apply safety protocols, including first aid readiness, emergency planning, and risk assessments.
- Ensure all venues, telescopes, binoculars, and related assets are clean, functional, and well-maintained at all times.
- Operate both powered and manual telescopes of varying sizes, structures, and mounts.
- Configure lenses, filters, and optical components to achieve optimal celestial viewing conditions.
- Lead stargazing, telescope viewing, and astrophotography sessions.
- Provide scientific context and explanations of observed celestial objects and optical equipment usage.
- Conduct routine, deep, and annual maintenance of telescopes, lenses, mirrors, and optical components, including collimation and alignment.
- Perform software updates on computerized telescopes to maintain up-to-date databases.
- Maintain accurate asset registers, inventory records, and warranty documentation.
- Support the development and equipping of observatories and observing locations.
- Participate in the planning and delivery of astronomy events and festivals.
- Communicate effectively with astronomy team members, RSSE management, and Tour Assistants regarding schedules, guest feedback, site conditions, and logistics.
- Remain actively engaged with the global astronomy community, emerging discoveries, and technological advancements.
Policies, Systems & Reporting
- Adhere to all functional policies, procedures, SOPs, and instructions to ensure consistent and controlled operations.
- Assist in the preparation of timely reports and operational updates in line with corporate standards.
- Provide constructive feedback and operational insights to management.
- Demonstrate a strong understanding of SOPs and RAMS methodologies.
Safety, Quality & Environment
- Apply all safety, quality, and environmental management systems to ensure compliance, guest safety, and responsible environmental practices.
- Participate in regular operational review sessions with astronomy guides to continuously enhance experience delivery.
Continuous Improvement
- Contribute to identifying opportunities for continuous improvement in systems, processes, and practices, aligned with international best practices, efficiency, and service excellence.
Job Requirements
Qualifications & Experience
- Bachelor's degree in Astronomy, Physics, Tourism, Hospitality, Environmental Studies, Business Management, or a related field.
- Minimum of 2 years experience within the tourism industry (experience in Saudi Arabia is an advantage).
- Minimum of 2 years hands-on experience working with optical instruments.
- Proven track record in astronomy-related roles.
- Experience operating manual and computerized telescopes, including large-aperture systems.
- Demonstrated experience in routine and deep telescope maintenance, mirror cleaning, and collimation.
- Knowledge of astronomy tours, events, festivals, and experience design.
- Experience in astrophotography and relevant equipment.
- Wilderness First Aid or internationally recognized First Aid certification.
Essential Skills
- Excellent written and spoken Arabic and English.
- Strong customer service mindset with a proactive, can-do attitude.
- High attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
- Ability to work effectively with diverse cultures, nationalities, and age groups.
- Ability to operate independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
- Professional demeanor suitable for high-end and luxury hospitality settings.
- Strong problem-solving skills and ability to manage guest expectations and feedback.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
- Strong interest in astronomy science, education, research, and conservation.
- Willingness to work night shifts, late hours, and travel across The Red Sea destinations.
Desirable Skills
- Additional spoken languages beyond Arabic and English.
- Previous experience in astronomy-focused business or tour operations.
- Health and safety experience within tour operations.
- Experience delivering tours across diverse geographic locations.
- Background or strong interest in environmental, social, or conservation initiatives.
Job Context
- Requires advanced technical knowledge of astronomy, optics, and photographic techniques.
- Involves frequent nighttime operations and travel across remote destinations.
- Requires the ability to understand guest needs and deliver tailored, premium experiences that exceed expectations.
- Demands strong physical and technical capability to set up, transport, and retrieve sensitive equipment efficiently and safely.
