Current Vacancies
Volunteer Coordinator
Join our team as Volunteer Coordinator and help shape a rewarding volunteering experience for the people who bring Jodrell Bank to life for our visitors. This role will lead recruitment, training and recognition for our volunteers, as well as our Work Experience Programme, at one of the world’s most remarkable radio astronomy sites. For further details and to apply, please visit here.
Closing date: 29 October 2026
To see all vacancies and apply, please visit the University of Manchester jobs page.
Please note: Jodrell Bank is rurally located and applicants will need access to personal transport.
Volunteering at Jodrell Bank
We currently have openings for Visitor Engagement Volunteers.
Our Visitor Engagement Volunteers are key to delivering extraordinary guest experiences. They provide essential orientation, exceptional customer service, and engaging interactions making each day truly special.
The role involves:
- Making visitors feel welcome and answering questions.
- Helping to direct visitors around the site.
- Helping with craft activities.
- Talking to visitors about the science of the site.
- Helping with day and evening events.
To register as a volunteer, please click the button below. If you have any further queries about volunteering at Jodrell, please contact becky.cowie@manchester.ac.uk.
Please note: The volunteer opportunities are focused on public engagement with science. It does not include access to the Observatory or involvement in its scientific work.
Work Experience
Please note that all placements for the 2026/27 academic year are now fully booked.
Designed for year 10 and year 12 students, the work experience is based at Jodrell Bank Centre for Engagement and focuses on our public engagement activities, interacting with schools and members of the public to educate them on the history and work of our site.
Typical activities.
- Shadowing the Engagement team, directing members of the public, and supporting school groups.
- Assisting with presenting films, talks, and shows.
- Working in visitor centre galleries, answering visitors’ questions, and giving directions.
The work experience runs over four days (Tuesday to Friday).
Please note: This work experience is focused on public engagement with science. It does not include access to the Observatory or involvement in its scientific work. The Department of Physics and Astronomy’s work placement programme is specifically designed for undergraduate students in their penultimate year of study.