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Astronomical Instrumentation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Aura Astronomy

Instrumentation Manager

Boulder, CO · On-site

$155 - $187/hr

S. institutions and 3 international affiliates, operates world-class astronomical observatories ... The Instrumentation Manager works with and takes direction from the Program Scientist for ...

AURA

Instrumentation Manager

Boulder, CO · On-site

$155K - $187K/yr

S. institutions and 3 international affiliates, operates world-class astronomical observatories ... The Instrumentation Manager works with and takes direction from the Program Scientist for ...

Caltech

Electronics Engineer

Pasadena, CA · On-site

While fostering a community of respect, learning, and individual growth, the OIR group designs, fabricates, and commissions astronomical instrumentation systems for ground-based observatories such as ...

Caltech

Electronics Technician

Pasadena, CA · On-site

Job Summary Caltech Optical Observatories is seeking an electronics Technician to join its Optical/Infrared Instrumentation Development group to provide high-performance astronomical instrumentation ...

Giant Magellan Telescope

Project Scientist

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$155K - $240K/yr

... astronomical instrumentation Job Duties Work with the Chief Scientist to provide scientific leadership for the GMT Project. Specific areas of support will include: * The scientific and logistical ...

The Pennsylvania State University

D. in a related field with strong research experience in astronomical instrumentation or nanofabrication will be considered. Experience with nanofabrication is desired. Applicants must have ...

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Astronomical Instrumentation information

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How much do astronomical instrumentation jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for astronomical instrumentation in the United States is $28.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.67 and $29.33 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is astronomical instrumentation?

An Astronomical Instrumentation job involves designing, developing, and maintaining scientific instruments used in observational astronomy. Professionals in this field work with telescopes, detectors, spectrographs, and other advanced equipment to enhance astronomical research. They may collaborate with astronomers, engineers, and software developers to ensure optimal performance of instruments used in ground-based and space-based observations. These specialists often work in research institutions, observatories, and aerospace agencies to push the boundaries of astronomical discovery.

What does astronomical instrumentation do?

Professionals in astronomical instrumentation often work on designing, building, and testing innovative devices used in observatories or space missions, such as telescopes, detectors, and spectrometers. Daily responsibilities may include collaborating with astronomers, engineers, and software developers to integrate new technologies, troubleshoot instrument issues, and optimize performance. Such roles can also involve project management tasks, creating technical documentation, and occasionally providing on-site support during instrument deployment. This work is typically performed in a research laboratory or observatory setting, blending hands-on engineering with scientific collaboration.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in astronomical instrumentation?

To thrive in Astronomical Instrumentation, you need a strong background in physics, optics, electronics, and engineering, usually supported by a relevant degree or advanced studies. Familiarity with specialized software (such as LabVIEW, MATLAB, or CAD), precision measurement tools, and laboratory equipment is typically required, and certifications in optics or electronics can be an asset. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective collaboration are important soft skills in this field. These qualifications are essential for designing, developing, and maintaining complex astronomical instruments critical to modern research and discovery.

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What states have the most Astronomical Instrumentation jobs?

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Astronomical Instrumentation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Astronomical Instrumentation job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,888 per year, or $28.8 per hour.

Instrumentation Manager

National Solar Observatory

Boulder, CO • On-site

$155K - $187K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 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 hiring a DKIST Instrumentation Manager who will be responsible for managing major upgrades of existing DKIST instrumentation and for the implementation of new instrumentation developments. The Instrumentation Manager works with and takes direction from the Program Scientist for Instrumentation to establish and implement instrumentation program priorities. The Instrumentation Manager manages a team of engineers and technicians that accomplish prioritized instrumentation tasks. The Instrumentation Manager also works with the Instrumentation Operations Manager on the implementation of upgrades and new developments for the telescope on the summit. The Instrumentation Manager functionally reports to the DKIST Program Scientist for Instrumentation. This position will be located at the NSO headquarters in Boulder, Colorado.
Essential Functions
  • Lead a team of engineers and technicians to develop and implement major upgrades to the current suite of operational DKIST instruments.
  • Work in close collaboration with the DKIST Program Scientist for Instrumentation to implement new instrumentation concepts to meet DKIST future science mission needs.
  • Work with the Instrumentation Operations Manager on the implementation of new instrumentation initiatives on the summit.
  • Manage resources and delegate instrumentation tasks and as required.
  • Develop program plans for new instrument development projects involving all relevant stakeholders.
  • Manage instrumentation project performance using appropriate systems, tools and techniques (e.g., Atlassian Confluence and JIRA). Ensure instrument projects are executed within schedule, scope and budget
  • Maintain project documentation, manage instrument vendor contracts, and manage project risk.
  • Communicate regularly with the Program Scientist for Instrumentation and DKIST Management about project progress, changes, issues, and solutions. Provide regular updates on program status, including schedule and budget.
  • Maintain effective communication with other DKIST operations teams.
  • Coordinate work, schedules and resources within the instrumentation team and other DKIST operations teams.
  • Adhere to established safety and other pertinent DKIST guidelines and procedures
  • Responsible for ensuring compliance with government award terms and conditions assigned to this position or subordinates of this position.
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Requirements
  • Degree in engineering, physics, astronomy or other relevant field, or equivalent experience.
  • 10+ years of experience with managing complex science projects, including preparation and management of performance, budget, schedule and risk.
  • Experience preparing and coordinating technical procurements of varying scale ($K - $M)
  • Experience managing teams of engineers and technicians.
  • Ability to apply project management practices and relevant project management tools.
  • Familiarity with Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) tools and the development of instrumentation maintenance plans
  • Excellent organizational skills and good written and verbal communication skills.
  • Experience with managing development and/or operations of telescope and instrument systems, or systems of similar nature and complexity
  • Familiarity with astronomical observatories and observing practices.
  • Ability to speak and write effectively in English, including preparation of comprehensive reports
  • Basic computer skills

Preferences
  • Advanced degree in engineering, physics, astronomy or other relevant field, or equivalent experience.
  • Experience in the development or support of astronomical instrumentation.
  • Experience and interest in ground-based observational solar research and science analysis

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
  • Ability to work at 10,000' elevation, sometimes during inclement weather, is required.
  • There will be occasional working at height utilizing fall protection equipment, ladders and scaffolding.
  • Regular travel between Boulder, CO and Maui, HI. Occasional domestic and international travel will be necessary.

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Salary Range: $155,000-$187,000 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 September 4, 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.
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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