Office of Public Outreach Division Head

Job Summary

This senior leadership role directs an organizations science communication and public outreach efforts, setting strategic vision and overseeing execution across media relations, informal education, community outreach, and mission-focused communication initiatives. The position ensures that outreach programs, products, and services effectively support major space science missions and align with institutional and sponsor communication objectives.

The role requires high-level relationship building, strategic negotiation, and collaboration with leadership, government partners, scientific communities, and internal and external stakeholders. The Division Head leads long-term planning, resource allocation, staff management, and budget oversight while anticipating emerging trends in science communication and leveraging technology to expand audience reach and impact.

Key Responsibilities

Science Communication & Public Outreach Strategy

• Define and implement strategic direction, policies, standards, and performance expectations for science communication and public outreach functions

• Develop and sustain comprehensive outreach programs, products, and services that support institutional and mission goals

• Anticipate emerging trends and needs in science communication and guide development of innovative outreach initiatives

• Leverage evolving technologies to enhance public engagement and stakeholder communication

Stakeholder Engagement

• Build and maintain strong partnerships with government agencies, mission offices, and scientific communities

• Serve as a senior communication leader and advocate for institutional initiatives

• Gather feedback from diverse audiences to improve outreach products and services

• Translate community input into strategic actions that support mission objectives

Operational & People Management

• Identify and secure resources required to support outreach and communication activities

• Lead hiring, training, performance management, and professional development for a large, multidisciplinary team

• Oversee budget planning, forecasting, allocation, and expenditure approval

• Ensure operational effectiveness, accountability, and alignment with organizational policies

Reporting Structure

• Reports to executive leadership and operates independently on senior-level strategic and operational matters

Minimum Qualifications

Education

• Bachelors degree in Communications, Public Relations, Astronomy, Physics, or a related field

• Advanced degree strongly preferred

Experience

• 15+ years of progressively responsible experience in science communication, science writing, public outreach, or related leadership roles

• Demonstrated expertise in managing large-scale science communication programs with national or international reach

• Proven experience leading editorial processes that balance scientific accuracy, public interest, and news value

• Strong background in strategic messaging, multi-channel communication, and stakeholder alignment

• Demonstrated success in people management, strategic planning, and budget oversight

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Deep knowledge of science communication and public outreach best practices

• Established press and media relationships

• Strategic, visionary leadership capabilities

• Strong understanding of modern communication technologies and platforms

• Excellent written, verbal, and presentation skills

• Ability to build and sustain effective working relationships across diverse internal and external groups