Job opportunity: Communities Liaison- part time (grade 14) at Alma Observatory
The Communities Liaison position will provide ongoing support to the relationship of the observatory with the local communities in the area near the ALMA site. The position will collaborate with different community stakeholders, including indigenous communities, cultivating positive relationships with those communities, and executing initiatives of mutual interest. This role will be the point of contact between ALMA and community stakeholders, reporting and advising the Corporate Secretary and advising the ALMA Director on strategic community-related matters. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Build and Maintain Relationships- Establish trust-based, positive relationships between ALMA and local community stakeholders in the II Region, with a special focus on the Likan Antai indigenous communities.- Act as the primary liaison between ALMA and local community representatives, including leaders, elders, and local organizations.Promote Mutual Understanding- Facilitate dialogues to ensure the local communities understand ALMA's mission and projects.- Communicate the interests and concerns of the local communities to the ALMA Director and the Corporate Secretary, advocating for culturally sensitive approaches. Facilitate Community Engagement- Plan and coordinate activities with the local communities, such as workshops, meetings, and consultations.- Design and implement initiatives integrating traditional knowledge and scientific outreach, fostering mutual respect and learning. Support Conflict Resolution- Assist on addressing community grievances or concerns proactively and diplomatically.- Assist and advise on mediating disputes between ALMA and local communities, aiming for fair outcomes for all parties. Conduct Outreach and Education- Support ALMA’s Education and Public Outreach office in the II Region through (i) educational activities to promote understanding of astronomy and ALMA's work, tailored to cultural contexts and (ii) developing materials and presentations that communicate scientific concepts in accessible and relevant ways. Ensure Cultural Sensitivity- Adapt communication and operational approaches to align with the communities' customs, traditions, and working rhythms.- Advocate for ethical practices in all interactions with local groups, ensuring transparency about ALMA's intentions and limitations. Monitor Social and Environmental Impacts- Assess and report on ALMA projects affecting the local environment, culture, and/or community well-being.- Propose strategies to minimize any identified impacts with a view to benefiting the local community. Coordinate Stakeholder Collaboration- In collaboration with the ALMA Executive Representatives, the ALMA Director, and the Corporate Secretary, maintain active communication with all stakeholders involved in community support. Respect Legal and Ethical Boundaries- Report on issues involving indigenous rights, land use, and local governance in compliance with relevant laws, such as Indigenous Law No. 19.253 and ILO Convention 169. Report and Advise- Prepare detailed reports on local community interactions, challenges, and progress in collaboration projects.- Advise on strategies to strengthen relationships with local communities. Develop Communication Strategies- Identify effective communication channels for local community outreach beyond formal methods, considering the preferences and rhythms of the indigenous groups.- Draft communications to ensure clarity and cultural appropriateness. Other related duties as assignedWORKING CONDITIONS· Work is typically performed in an administrative environment, mainly indoors in the Santiago Central Office (SCO), with regular visits to the Operations Support Facility facilities (OSF) (2900m elevation) and occasional trips to the Array Operations Site (AOS) (5000m elevation). Physical health compatible with high-altitude conditions. A successful High-Altitude Medical Exam is a necessary condition of employment.· Frequent travel to the Observatory and II Region.* Deadline for applications: March 18th, 2025 at 12 pm, Chile time.Este aviso se publica dentro del marco de la Ley N° 21.015, que incentiva la inclusión de personas con discapacidad al mundo laboral.This notice is published within the framework of Law No. 21.015, which encourages the inclusion of people with disabilities in the world of work