Hawaii Community Outreach Specialist

Job Summary
The Hawaii Community Outreach Specialist is responsible for building and maintaining relationships with key stakeholders as well as grassroot residents in Hawaii, especially Native Hawaiian communities on the Big Island. The person in this position will serve as TMT’s liaison, coordinate initiatives designed to promote TMT partnership with community, and administer programs aimed at addressing the needs of the local community. This person may also manage charitable giving programs and participates in local charity events.

Under the leadership of the TMT Project Manager and his delegees, the Hawaii Community Outreach Specialist will coordinate efforts with local observatories to serve the local community and contribute to the social, economic, health, educational, and cultural advancement of native Hawaiians.

Job Duties

• Listen to, seek information from, and engage all aspects of the community
• Provide insights by engaging with stakeholders in dialogues that inform and further the vision and mission of TMT
• Under the leadership of TMT Project Manager and his delegees, develop and implement community engagement strategies
• Plan, coordinate, and promote community participation in TMT events and activities
• Create and cultivate relationships with local residents and organizations
• Participate in local community volunteer works and charity events, such as at ‘Imiloa and The Food Baskets, and/or volunteering at local schools.
• Attend local events and meetings on behalf of TMT; listen and collect inputs on how TMT can be a better neighbor
• Evaluate and monitor engagement activities to ensure consistency with the values and direction given by TMT Hawaiian Engagement Committee
• Monitor and report to TMT management and TIO Board any critical news, issues or local development related to TMT

Key Attributes

• Good listener, strong interpersonal skills
• Effective and engaging communicator
• Ability to build bridges with a diverse group of stakeholders
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Excellent time management and multi-tasking skills
• Passionate about partnership with the community and promoting community-based astronomy

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in science, sociology, social work or a related field, or a minimum of 3 years of work experience in community engagement with low-income populations
• Demonstrated ability to cultivate and build relationships with organizations and residents
• Expert knowledge of Hawaiian culture, history, and familiarity with Hawaiian language
• Familiarity with astronomy

Residence within the Hilo area is required. Significant travel may be required to local communities, charity organizations and observatory locations.