About the job

High School Student Assistant - Public Affairs

Application Deadline: 16 October 2026

Department: Public Affairs

Employment Type: Temporary

Location: W.M. Keck Headquarters

Reporting To: Department Supervisor/Manager

Compensation: $16.00 - $18.52 / hour

Description

Launch your professional journey with hands-on experience at W. M. Keck Observatory! The Student Assistant in Public Affairs is a great opportunity for high school students to build real-world workplace skills while supporting meaningful projects in a collaborative, in-person environment. In this role, students will assist with administrative, organizational, technical, and project-based tasks while gaining exposure to teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and career pathways in a professional setting.

Why Choose W. M. Keck Observatory:

• Competitive starting salary ranging from $16.00/hr to $18.52/hr.

• Be a part of a dedicated team working on the frontiers of astronomy.

About W. M. Keck Observatory: With acknowledgment and profound respect for the cultural, ecological, and scientific significance of Maunakea, W. M. Keck Observatory offers astronomers a unique vantage point to explore the universe. Our twin telescopes are at the forefront of astronomical discovery, offering transformative insights into the cosmos. We are dedicated to service, stewardship, and our community, all while advancing our mission to unlock the mysteries of the universe. Join us in this endeavor!

What the Student Assistant in Public Affairs does:

The Student Assistant position provides high school students with the opportunity to gain meaningful, hands-on professional experience in a collaborative workplace environment. Students support departmental activities through a variety of administrative, organizational, technical, or project-based tasks while learning workplace skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.

Required Qualifications

*Education *o   High school student in good academic standing. *Skills *o   Basic computer skills. o   Ability to follow instructions and complete assigned tasks. o   Willingness to learn and participate in a professional work environment. *Technical Competencies *o   Ability to work part-time during the school year and during the summer. o   Ability to perform work in person at the workplace.