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Astronomical Instrumentation 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 experts in observational and theoretical astronomy and a world-class instrumentation group. Students will ...

AURA

Software Engineer II

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$92K - $102K/yr

Collaborate with hardware and instrumentation teams to integrate software and hardware interfaces ... Familiarity with scientific computing workflows, observational instruments and astronomical data ...

Lockheed Martin

Instrument Scientist

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

... instrumentation, or with numerical modeling of astronomical and/or solar phenomena observed by such instruments. • US citizenship or Green Card holder. Desired skills • Emerging leader in the ...

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How much do astronomical instrumentation jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 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 are the most common projects or responsibilities for someone working in astronomical instrumentation?

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 is an Astronomical Instrumentation job?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Astronomical Instrumentation position, and why are they important?

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.

More about Astronomical Instrumentation jobs
What states have the most Astronomical Instrumentation jobs? States with the most job openings for Astronomical Instrumentation jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Astronomical Instrumentation jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Astronomical Instrumentation jobs are:
Astronomical Instrumentation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Astronomical Instrumentation job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 18% As Needed, 5% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 51% Contract, and 13% 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.
CASSI 2026

CASSI 2026

Carnegie Science

Pasadena, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Description
Carnegie Observatories is seeking undergraduate students interested in focused astronomical research projects, to be conducted over summer 2026. Prior research experience is not required to apply for/participate in the Carnegie program.
Carnegie Observatories is one of the top astronomical research institutions in the world with experts in observational and theoretical astronomy and a world-class instrumentation group. Students will have the chance to work with senior researchers on topics such as the first galaxies in the Universe, accreting black holes, dark matter, exoplanets, and the life and death of stars. Interested students can also work with Carnegie scientists and engineers on the next generation of cameras and spectrographs for our telescopes.
Students will work for 10 weeks in the summer from June 15 - August 21, 2026 with scientists at Carnegie Observatories on projects spanning the field of astronomy. Selected students will receive a $7000 stipend for the full 10 weeks. Housing will be provided as well as travel assistance up to $300 for travel from home or campus to southern California. Upon successful completion of the program, all students will also be given the opportunity to attend the American Astronomical Society meeting the following January to present their research. In addition to research, Carnegie Summer Interns will participate in a coding bootcamp during the first week of the program as well as the educational program designed to teach crucial scientific communication skills.
Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. Those accepted into the program will be paid a stipend and will be required to provide legal identity documentation to be set up into Carnegie's finance pay system. Applicants must be enrolled at a university or college in California at the time of their application or be from California and attending college elsewhere. Participants may not have graduated from their 4-year institution before the beginning of the summer internship, but community college students may be in the process of transferring to a 4-year institution. If you have questions about your eligibility, please contact Program Director, Dr. Gwen Rudie.
If you currently attend a California community college or one of the Cal-State schools, you may also be eligible to apply to our summer program through the Cal-Bridge Summer program website. We encourage you to consider this option that allows you to apply to our program at Carnegie as well as 14 other institutions, all using a single application.

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