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Astronomer Jobs in Springfield, VA (NOW HIRING)

Varsity Tutors

Astronomy Tutor

Alexandria, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

About the Job The Varsity Tutors Live Learning Platform has thousands of students looking for online Astronomy tutors nationally. As a tutor on the Varsity Tutors Platform, you'll have the ...

Varsity Tutors

Astronomy Tutor

Fairfax, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

About the Job The Varsity Tutors Live Learning Platform has thousands of students looking for online Astronomy tutors nationally. As a tutor on the Varsity Tutors Platform, you'll have the ...

Varsity Tutors

Astronomy Tutor

Leesburg, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

About the Job The Varsity Tutors Live Learning Platform has thousands of students looking for online Astronomy tutors nationally. As a tutor on the Varsity Tutors Platform, you'll have the ...

Varsity Tutors

Astronomy Tutor

Rockville, MD · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

About the Job The Varsity Tutors Live Learning Platform has thousands of students looking for online Astronomy tutors nationally. As a tutor on the Varsity Tutors Platform, you'll have the ...

Varsity Tutors

Astronomy Tutor

Washington, DC · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

About the Job The Varsity Tutors Live Learning Platform has thousands of students looking for online Astronomy tutors nationally. As a tutor on the Varsity Tutors Platform, you'll have the ...

Varsity Tutors

Astronomy Tutor

College Park, MD · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

About the Job The Varsity Tutors Live Learning Platform has thousands of students looking for online Astronomy tutors nationally. As a tutor on the Varsity Tutors Platform, you'll have the ...

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All JobsAstronomer JobsAstronomer Jobs in Springfield, VA

Astronomer information

What is an astronomer?

Astronomers are scientists who study celestial objects, such as stars, planets, galaxies, and the universe as a whole. They use telescopes and other instruments to observe and analyze phenomena beyond Earth's atmosphere. Their work helps us understand the origins, evolution, and properties of objects in space, as well as fundamental questions about the nature of the universe. Astronomers often work in research, education, or observatories, and may specialize in areas like astrophysics, cosmology, or planetary science.

What do astronomers do?

Astronomers study the universe, from the planets and stars in our solar system to the Milky Way and galaxy beyond. Their job is to discover how everything works together and research the origins and effects of heavenly anomalies, such as black holes, asteroids, and pulsars. What an astronomer does on a day-to-day basis will vary significantly based on their specialty. For instance, planetary astronomers study the rotation and life cycles of planets, moons, and asteroids. Stellar astronomers focus on the life cycle of stars, including the study of black holes, supernovas, nebulae, and star creation. An astronomer may also study the sun and its magnetic field and storms or focus solely on the Milky Way and galaxy. Astronomers wishing to focus on a broader, more all-encompassing view of the universe often choose to enter the field of cosmology which involves immersion into the history of the universe, as well as active research and hypothesis on current theories, such as dark matter, string theory, and multiverses.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an astronomer?

To thrive as an Astronomer, you need a strong background in physics, mathematics, and computer science, usually with a Ph.D. in astronomy or a related field. Expertise in data analysis software, telescope operation, and programming languages like Python or MATLAB is commonly required. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are standout soft skills for interpreting data and sharing findings. These skills are essential for conducting rigorous research, collaborating with international teams, and advancing our understanding of the universe.

What are some common challenges astronomers face when working on research projects?

Astronomers often encounter challenges such as securing telescope time, managing large volumes of data, and adapting to rapidly advancing technologies. Collaboration with international teams is common, requiring effective communication across different time zones and cultures. Additionally, astronomers need to stay updated on the latest research, which can be demanding given the fast-paced nature of the field. Overcoming these hurdles is key to making significant scientific contributions.

What is the difference between Astronomer vs Astrophysicist?

AspectAstronomerAstrophysicist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Astronomy, Physics, or related field; often a Ph.D. for research rolesBachelor's or Master's in Physics, Astronomy, or related; Ph.D. common for research
Work EnvironmentObservatories, research institutions, universities, planetariumsResearch labs, universities, government agencies, space agencies
Industry UsageAcademic, research, public outreachResearch, academia, space exploration, theoretical modeling

Both astronomers and astrophysicists often share similar educational backgrounds and work environments. However, astronomers typically focus on observational data and public outreach, while astrophysicists tend to emphasize theoretical modeling and space research. The choice between the two depends on whether you prefer hands-on observation or theoretical work within the field of space sciences.

Is astronomer a high paying job?

Astronomers typically earn a median annual salary of around $100,000, but salaries can vary based on experience, education, and location. While some positions in academia or research institutions may offer lower pay, those in industry or with advanced degrees tend to earn higher salaries.

What jobs do astronomers get?

Astronomers typically work in research institutions, universities, government agencies, or observatories, focusing on studying celestial objects and phenomena. They often conduct data analysis, develop models, and publish scientific findings, using tools like telescopes and computer simulations. Many astronomers also work in education or science communication roles.
More about Astronomer jobs

What cities near Springfield, VA are hiring for Astronomer jobs?

Cities near Springfield, VA with the most Astronomer job openings:

Astronomer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Astronomer job openings in Springfield, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 55% Physical, 12% Hybrid, and 33% Remote job distribution.

Radio Astronomer

Computational Physics Inc

Washington, DC • On-site

$75 - $95/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Computational Physics, Inc. (CPI) is looking for a Radio Astronomer to support our customers at USNO, Washington DC.

About the Position

The successful candidate will support the Radio Optical Reference Frame Division in its mission to define and maintain the celestial reference frame. The candidate will support efforts to improve astrometric and geodetic data products through the development and evaluation of future Very Long Baseline Interferometry (VLBI) capabilities. Work will include: simulation and analysis of network geometry, group delay measurements, calibration techniques, and systematic errors. Travel to Socorro, NM is expected and additional travel to conferences and workshops may be required.

About the USNO

The USNO is responsible for the production and dissemination of precise time, astrometry, and Earth orientation parameters for the Department of Defense (DoD) and Intelligence Community. As the DoD Celestial Reference Frame manager, USNO collects, manages, validates and disseminates celestial data, and is the authoritative source for all celestial data for the DoD. To support this mission, USNO deploys and operates astronomical telescopes at multiple locations around the world. Its analytic products support Navy, DoD and other U.S. Government needs, such as those of NASA, NOAA and other agencies, as well as the needs of non-U.S. Government users worldwide. The USNO plays an important role in the world scientific community for research on stellar dynamics, active galactic nuclei, celestial reference frames and geodesy.

Required Qualifications
  • PhD in astronomy or physics with an emphasis on radio interferometry, or postdoctoral work with this experience.
  • Experience with either the Common Astronomy Software Applications (CASA) or Astronomical Image Processing System (AIPS) packages.
  • Proficiency with Python programming and standard software development practices.
  • A peer-reviewed publication record commensurate with a recent PhD or postdoctoral fellow.
  • U.S. Citizenship is required for this position.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI clearance.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Expertise in VLBI is highly desirable. Especially astrometric/geodetic VLBI.
  • Expertise in interferometric calibration is highly desirable.
  • Experience using the Very Long Baseline Array (VLBA) or VLBA-derived data is highly desirable.
  • Experience simulating interferometric networks, observations, or experiments is highly desirable.
  • Experience using GIS software packages, such as ArcGIS, is desirable.
Benefits
  • Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits.
  • Positive, upbeat, and transparent company culture with opportunities for self-development and career advancement.
  • Employee-owned small business that allows team members to learn from each other and take ownership.
  • Professional development support including conference attendance and certification training.
  • 401(k), Profit Sharing and an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP).
  • Disability insurance (short-term and long-term).
  • Flexible schedule.
  • Flexible spending account.
  • Health, Dental and Vision insurance.
  • Life insurance.
  • Paid time off.
  • Parental Leave.
  • Tuition reimbursement.
Equal Opportunity

CPI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.

If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please contact us and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Requests for accommodation will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

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