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Astronomical Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Carnegie Science

CASSI 2026

Pasadena, CA · On-site

Carnegie Observatories is one of the top astronomical research institutions in the world with ... Interested students can also work with Carnegie scientists and engineers on the next generation of ...

W. M. Keck Observatory

Mechanical Engineer I

Kamuela, HI · On-site

$94K - $114K/yr

We are seeking a Mechanical Engineer I to join our world-class engineering team supporting one of the most scientifically productive astronomical observatories on Earth. In this role, you will design ...

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M3 Engineering & Technology

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MECHANICAL/PIPING ENGINEER (Material Handling)

Charlotte, NC · On-site

Position Summary M3 Engineering & Technology is seeking a full-time Mechanical / Piping Engineer ... Centered in a region with significant mining and astronomical projects, we are well known both ...

W. M. Keck Observatory

Mechanical Engineer II

Kamuela, HI · On-site

$108K - $132K/yr

Mechanical Engineer II Application Deadline: 8 July 2026 Department: Mechanical Engineering ... astronomical observatories on Earth. In this role, you will design, analyze, maintain, and improve ...

M3 Engineering & Technology

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MECHANICAL/PIPING ENGINEER (Material Handling)

Charlotte, NC · On-site

Position Summary M3 Engineering & Technology is seeking a full-time Mechanical / Piping Engineer ... Centered in a region with significant mining and astronomical projects, we are well known both ...

L3HHCM20

Optics Process Engineer

Rochester, NY · On-site

$84K - $156K/yr

... astronomical, highenergy laser, and earthimaging applications. As an Optical Process Engineer specializing in CNC fabrication, you will play a key role in developing and advancing machining processes ...

W. M. Keck Observatory

Mechanical Engineer I

Kamuela, HI · On-site

$94K - $114K/yr

Mechanical Engineer I Application Deadline: 8 July 2026 Department: Mechanical Engineering ... astronomical observatories on Earth. In this role, you will design, analyze, maintain, and improve ...

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All JobsAstronomical Engineer Jobs

Astronomical Engineer information

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$39K

$101.8K

$137.5K

How much do astronomical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for astronomical engineer in the United States is $101,752.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,000.00 and $116,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $500,000?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as aerospace, petroleum, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Senior roles typically require advanced skills, certifications, and extensive industry experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Astronomical Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Astronomical Engineer, you need a strong background in physics, mathematics, and engineering principles, typically supported by at least a bachelor’s or master’s degree in aerospace, mechanical, or electrical engineering. Familiarity with CAD software, telescope instrumentation, programming languages (such as Python or MATLAB), and relevant certifications (like Fundamentals of Engineering) is highly valued. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective teamwork are critical soft skills for addressing complex challenges and collaborating on scientific projects. These skills are essential for developing advanced astronomical instruments and ensuring accurate, reliable scientific data collection.

What are Astronomical Engineers?

Astronomical Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain instruments, equipment, and technology used in the study of astronomy and space exploration. They work on telescopes, satellites, detectors, and other scientific tools that help astronomers observe and analyze celestial phenomena. Their expertise bridges engineering and astronomy, ensuring that observational instruments are precise, reliable, and capable of advancing our understanding of the universe.

How much does an astronomical engineer make?

Astronomical engineers typically earn a median annual salary of around $80,000 to $120,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Advanced roles or those with specialized skills in optics, instrumentation, or space systems can command higher salaries, especially in research institutions or aerospace companies.

What do astronomical engineers do?

Astronomical engineers design, develop, and maintain equipment and systems used in astronomical research, such as telescopes, sensors, and spacecraft. They often work with complex technical tools, apply principles of physics and engineering, and may be involved in testing and troubleshooting equipment in laboratory or field environments.

What are common challenges Astronomical Engineers face when working on large-scale telescope projects?

Astronomical Engineers often encounter challenges related to integrating complex hardware and software systems, especially when designing or maintaining large-scale telescopes. These projects frequently require close collaboration with astronomers, software developers, and other engineers to ensure precise instrument alignment and data accuracy. Additionally, adapting designs to withstand harsh environmental conditions—such as extreme temperatures or remote locations—can be technically demanding. Effective communication and strong problem-solving skills are essential for overcoming these challenges and contributing to successful projects.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often involves working in high-demand industries, holding managerial positions, or possessing rare technical expertise.

What is the difference between Astronomical Engineer vs Aerospace Engineer?

AspectAstronomical EngineerAerospace Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in astronomy, astrophysics, or engineeringBachelor's or higher in aerospace, aeronautical, or mechanical engineering
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, observatories, space agenciesAircraft, spacecraft design, testing facilities
Industry UsageSpace research, telescope development, astrophysics projectsAircraft, spacecraft, defense, commercial aviation

While both roles involve engineering principles, Astronomical Engineers focus on space research and telescope systems, whereas Aerospace Engineers design and develop aircraft and spacecraft. The credentials, work environments, and industry applications differ, making each role specialized within the broader space and aeronautics fields.

What cities are hiring for Astronomical Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Astronomical Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Astronomical Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Astronomical Engineer jobs include:
Astronomical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Astronomical Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Internship, 2% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 62% Contract, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,752 per year, or $48.9 per hour.
Senior Software Engineer

Senior Software Engineer

National Solar Observatory

Maui, HI • On-site

$125K - $167K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

The NSF Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope (DKIST), operated by the National Solar Observatory (NSO), is the world’s largest and most advanced solar telescope, designed to help answer fundamental questions about our Sun and its complex magnetic fields. DKIST, which completed construction and began operations in November 2021 on the summit of Haleakala, Maui, Hawaii is a major program within the NSO. The NSO, an NSF national research and development center dedicated to solar science, is managed by the Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA). AURA, a consortium of 49 U.S. institutions and 3 international affiliates, operates world-class astronomical observatories. Its role is to establish, nurture, and promote public observatories and facilities that drive innovative astronomical research.

We are seeking a Senior Software Engineer to provide technical leadership and hands-on development for our High-Level Software (HLS) systems supporting advanced telescope and instrumentation platforms. This role will solve complex technical challenges, guide engineers and partners, and contribute directly to system design, development, and operations at the DKIST facility.

You will play a key role in delivering robust, scalable software systems that support scientific discovery, collaborating closely with cross-functional teams across engineering and operations.

Essential Functions
Technical Leadership & Development
  • Design, develop, test, deploy, and maintain high-level software systems for telescope and instrument applications
  • Lead complex engineering efforts and provide technical direction to team members and collaborators
  • Architect and implement scalable, multi-threaded, distributed systems
  • Support system integration across observatory platforms
Collaboration & Execution
  • Partner with engineering teams, operations staff, subcontractors, and stakeholders to deliver solutions
  • Plan and execute work aligned with technical, schedule, and budget requirements
  • Identify and resolve complex problems with minimal direction
  • Recommend and implement improvements to systems and processes
Documentation & Quality
  • Maintain comprehensive documentation (design specs, APIs, test plans, user guides)
  • Ensure high-quality software delivery through testing and best practices
  • Support CI/CD pipelines and automated testing frameworks
Operations Support
  • Provide software support for summit and science operations as needed
  • Participate in system upgrades and new initiatives
Compliance & Safety
  • Adhere to safety standards and organizational policies
  • Ensure compliance with government award requirements (if applicable)
  • Promote a respectful, inclusive, and collaborative work environment
Requirements
  • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent experience)
  • 10+ years of software development experience, including:
    • 5+ years with Java (including Swing)
    • Experience building multi-threaded, distributed systems
    • At least 1 year of Python
  • Experience with Linux-based development environments
  • Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to work from high-level objectives
  • Experience with databases (PostgreSQL or similar)
  • Familiarity with Agile development practices
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills

This position involves access to technical data that is subject to U.S. export control laws, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Pursuant to these regulations, only U.S. persons (as defined in the regulations) are eligible for access to the controlled technical data. A "U.S. person" includes a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, lawful permanent resident (green card holder), or person granted asylum or refugee status. Applicants must be eligible to access export-controlled information as defined by U.S. law.

Preferences
  • Experience in scientific, engineering, or large-scale technical environments
  • Knowledge of distributed control systems or observatory/telescope systems
  • Experience with:
    • Middleware frameworks (e.g., EPICS, TANGO, DDS, ICE)
    • High-throughput data systems (GB/s scale)
    • CI/CD pipelines and automated testing
    • Cloud platforms (AWS, GCP)
    • Container technologies (Docker, Kubernetes)
  • Familiarity with motion control systems (e.g., Beckhoff, Omron, Delta Tau)
  • Experience managing vendors or technical contractors
Work Environment & Physical Requirements
  • Primarily office-based with extended computer use
  • Occasional lifting (up to 25 lbs)
  • Periodic work at high-elevation observatory site (~10,000 ft)
  • Frequent communication and collaboration with team members

Salary Range: $125,000 - $167,000 per year. The final salary will depend on skills, qualifications and experience.

AURA offers an excellent benefits package including paid time off and retirement plan contributions, competitive salary commensurate with experience, and a very attractive work environment. Details on benefits can be found at Benefits by Location - Aura Human Resources 

Apply by July 5, 2026 for priority consideration. This position will remain open until it is filled. Please submit a cover letter and a CV or resume, PDF files preferred. Please name any attachments with the following format: LastName DocName.

Individuals needing assistance with the employment process can request assistance here.

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