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Astronomical Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

STScI

Software Engineer, II

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$96K - $132K/yr

We are seeking a Software Engineer, II /Junior Data Engineer to join our Data Management Division ... world's most advanced astronomical public data archives. MAST provides reliable access to ...

University of Toledo

$48K - $65K/yr

... astronomical data reduction and Python programming language Conditions of Employment: To promote the highest levels of health and well-being, the University of Toledo campuses are tobacco-free. Pre ...

The CFHT Corporation

Executive Director

Waimea, HI

... astronomical observatories through a pivotal chapter in its history - one that demands both ... A graduate degree (Master's or doctoral level) in astronomy, astrophysics, engineering, or a ...

University of Toledo

$48K - $65K/yr

... astronomical data reduction and Python programming language Conditions of Employment: To promote the highest levels of health and well-being, the University of Toledo campuses are tobacco-free. Pre ...

The University of Toledo

Post Doctoral Associate

Toledo, OH · On-site

$48K - $65K/yr

... astronomical data reduction and Python programming language Conditions of Employment: To promote the highest levels of health and well-being, the University of Toledo campuses are tobacco-free. Pre ...

AURA

Principal Software Architect

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$155K - $189K/yr

... astronomical facilities. Working closely with scientists, software engineers, data specialists, and operations teams, you will provide hands-on technical leadership, translate complex scientific ...

NOAO

Principal Software Architect

Tucson, AZ · On-site

... astronomical facilities. Working closely with scientists, software engineers, data specialists, and operations teams, you will provide hands-on technical leadership, translate complex scientific ...

Caltech

Network Engineer

Pasadena, CA · On-site

... astronomical community to invaluable scientific data. IPAC, situated within the Division of Physics ... Essential Job Duties As an IPAC Network Engineer, your role will be to: * Collaborate on ...

aui

Systems Engineer II-III

Charlottesville, VA · On-site

The Next Generation Very Large Array (ngVLA) is a transformative astronomical observatory designed ... The system engineer will collaborate with System Architects and Engineers with domain expertise ...

aui

Systems Engineer II-III

Charlottesville, VA · On-site

The Next Generation Very Large Array (ngVLA) is a transformative astronomical observatory designed ... The system engineer will collaborate with System Architects and Engineers with domain expertise ...

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Astronomical Engineer information

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$39K

$101.8K

$137.5K

How much do astronomical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 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 is an astronomical engineer?

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.

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 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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,752 per year, or $48.9 per hour.

Software Engineer, II

STScI

Baltimore, MD • On-site

$96K - $132K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

The Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI), operated by the Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA), is NASA's science operations center for missions including the Hubble and James Webb Space Telescopes. We are seeking a Software Engineer, II /Junior Data Engineer to join our Data Management Division. In this role, you will help build and support the backend data infrastructure that powers the Mikulski Archive for Space Telescopes (MAST)-one of the world's most advanced astronomical public data archives. MAST provides reliable access to scientific data from missions including HST, JWST, Roman, and TESS. This position can support hybrid work (around twice a quarter, in the office). Candidates must reside in or be willing to relocate to our local market. (MD, DE, VA, PA, DC & WV). This position requires US Citizenship or Permanent Residence to meet ITAR requirements.
Responsibilities
Assist in building, maintaining, monitoring, and troubleshooting data pipelines using Apache Airflow to process, transform, and load large-scale datasets.
  • Support PostgreSQL and MPP platform operations, including performance monitoring and routine maintenance.
  • Help build and improve data systems that support scientific research, including relational databases and cloud-based Lakehouse architectures.
  • Monitor data quality, reliability, and system health through logging, alerting, and operational best practices.
  • Collaborate with senior data engineers, scientists, and cross-functional teams to understand requirements and implement scalable data solutions.
  • Participate in testing, documentation, and continuous improvement of data engineering processes.

Preferred Technical Skills
Working knowledge of PostgreSQL or other relational databases.
  • Familiarity with Apache Airflow or an eagerness to learn workflow orchestration tools.
  • Experience with Python programming and SQL.
  • Exposure to AWS cloud services through coursework, internships, personal projects, or professional experience.
  • Understanding of ETL/ELT concepts and data pipeline fundamentals.
  • Familiarity with Git and software development best practices.

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Data Science, or a related field (or equivalent practical experience).
  • 3-7 years of experience in data engineering, software engineering, data analytics, or a related technical role. Internship, research, academic, or personal project experience is encouraged.
  • Strong problem-solving skills, willingness to learn, and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.

You'll Have the Opportunity to Grow Into Designing and optimizing production-scale data pipelines and distributed data systems.
  • Working with advanced technologies such as Trino, Apache Iceberg, Greenplum, and modern Lakehouse architectures.
  • Developing expertise in AWS cloud services, PostgreSQL performance tuning, distributed query engines, and large-scale scientific data processing.
  • Taking ownership of increasingly complex data engineering projects while being mentored by experienced engineers.

Candidates at all levels of seniority will be considered. The level of appointment will be commensurate with the selected candidate's education, skills, and relevant experience.
The salary range for the Software Engineer, II /Junior Data Engineer is $92,500 - $120,000. Applications received by 09/12/2026 will receive full consideration. Applications received after this date will be considered until the position is filled.
Our excellent benefits include:
  • Employer retirement contribution - direct STScI contribution of 10% of your salary from your first day
  • 12 days sick leave, up to 24 days' vacation, and 10 paid holidays
  • Flexible work schedule with healthy work/life balance
  • Comprehensive medical/dental/vision/prescription plans, and more!

Please only use this link to apply - Software Engineer II
Reference #: 0016263
Individuals needing assistance with the employment process can contact us at careers@stsci.edu.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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