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Astronomy Assistant Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Astronomy Assistant information

What is an astronomy assistant?

Astronomy Assistants are professionals who support astronomers and researchers in their scientific work. They may help with data collection, telescope operation, analysis of astronomical images, and maintaining equipment. Their responsibilities often include organizing research materials, assisting with observations, and preparing reports or presentations. Astronomy Assistants play a crucial role in ensuring that research projects run smoothly and efficiently in observatories, research institutions, or academic settings.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of an astronomy assistant, and how do they support the research team?

As an Astronomy Assistant, your daily tasks often include organizing and maintaining observational data, preparing equipment for nighttime observations, and assisting with data analysis using specialized software. You may also help coordinate telescope schedules and ensure that logs are accurately updated. By handling these crucial logistical and technical tasks, you enable astronomers and researchers to focus on analysis and discovery, making you an essential part of the team’s scientific workflow.

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

To thrive as an Astronomy Assistant, you generally need a background in physics or astronomy, strong analytical skills, and experience with data collection and analysis. Familiarity with astronomical instruments, telescope operation, and software such as MATLAB, Python, or specialized data reduction tools is often required. Attention to detail, effective communication, and the ability to collaborate within research teams are standout soft skills. These competencies are crucial for supporting accurate scientific research, managing complex datasets, and contributing effectively to collaborative astronomical projects.

What is the difference between Astronomy Assistant vs Astrophysics Technician?

AspectAstronomy AssistantAstrophysics Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate's degree, some technical trainingAssociate's or bachelor's degree in physics or astronomy, technical certifications
Work EnvironmentObservatories, research facilities, educational institutionsResearch labs, observatories, university departments
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research centers, planetariumsResearch institutions, government agencies, universities
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level roles in astronomyTechnical support roles in astrophysics research

While both roles support astronomical research, an Astronomy Assistant typically performs administrative and observational support tasks, often requiring less formal education. An Astrophysics Technician usually has more technical training and handles specialized equipment and data analysis. Both roles are vital in the astronomy field but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

What jobs can you get with an associate in astronomy?

An associate degree in astronomy can qualify individuals for entry-level roles such as astronomy technician, observatory assistant, or research aide. These positions often involve data collection, equipment maintenance, and supporting research projects, and may require familiarity with telescopes, data analysis software, and basic scientific principles.

What are the most commonly searched types of Astronomy jobs in Florida?

The most popular types of Astronomy jobs in Florida are:

What are popular job titles related to Astronomy Assistant jobs in Florida?

For Astronomy Assistant jobs in Florida, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Astronomy Assistant jobs in Florida look for?

The top searched job categories for Astronomy Assistant jobs in Florida are:

What cities in Florida are hiring for Astronomy Assistant jobs?

Cities in Florida with the most Astronomy Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Astronomy Assistant job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Adjunct Assistant Professor, Natural Sciences (Astronomy)

Santa Fe College

Gainesville, FL • On-site

Part-time

Retirement

Re-posted 4 hours ago


Job description

Job Description Summary
Each part-time faculty member reports to a chair or director, satisfies criteria for accreditation, possesses subject matter expertise, and has the following instructional and institutional responsibilities: • Designing courses, delivering instruction, evaluating student learning, and incorporating college-required technology. • Possessing subject matter expertise and engaging in ongoing professional development. • Maintaining effective communication within the College and the department or program.
Job Description
Salary is determined per the SF Salary Schedule.
Santa Fe College's Natural Sciences within the Academic Affairs division of Liberal Arts and Sciences provides pre-professional instruction to guide the development of the next generation of engineers, physicians, and scientists. The Natural Sciences Department also provides non-sciences majors with general education science courses to enable them to understand and appreciate the role of the sciences in daily life and the world community.
Under general supervision, the Adjunct Assistant develops, prepares, and teaches a variety of coursework consisting of introductory astronomy. Adjunct Faculty are employed on a term-by-term basis and may be assigned teaching duties at SF's main Northwest campus or at any of the College's six educational centers. Course offerings within the Natural Sciences Department may be taught during the day, evening, or online, as well as taught using other distance learning formats.
Responsibilities and Duties
  • Plan, organize, and deliver instruction in didactic, laboratory and/or classroom settings to promote student success within a community college setting.
  • Support and promote the college and departmental missions centered on excellence in teaching and learning through quality instruction, curriculum enhancement, and service.
  • Collaborate with department chair, faculty, and peers to evaluate, revise, and develop curriculum to cultivate the mastery of course content.
  • Provide students with frequent, timely assessment of and clear feedback regarding academic performance.
  • Appropriately document student progress and maintain records including attendance, grading, and student learning outcomes.
  • Maintain appropriate office hours proportionate to the instructional assignment.
  • Provide service excellence through courteous, informed, accessible, and professional engagement.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications
Required: A Master's degree or higher in Astronomy or a master's degree with eighteen (18) graduate course hours in Astronomy, Planetary Sciences, Astrophysics, or Planetary Geology.
Additional Requirements: A criminal background check will be conducted.
Preferred: Teaching experience in a community college and/or university setting and familiarity with classroom technologies and productivity tools.
General Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
The Adjunct Assistant must have the ability to deliver a high level of interactive service, develop and maintain collaborative relationships throughout the organization, communicate effectively and possess proficient computer skills, including familiarity with the Microsoft Suite of Office Applications. The successful applicant must be willing to work a flexible schedule at multiple sites, as well as demonstrate the ability to work well with students, faculty and staff at all levels within a diverse, multi-cultural, collaborative environment.
If you are a retiree of the Florida Retirement System (FRS), please check with the FRS on how your current benefits will be affected if you are re-employed with the State of Florida. Your current retirement benefits may be canceled, suspended or deemed ineligible depending upon the date of your retirement.
Santa Fe College (SF) is committed to maintaining a work and educational environment that embraces diversity and where no member of the college community is excluded from participation in, denied the benefits of, or subject to discrimination in any college program or activity based on: their race, ethnicity, national origin, color, religion, age, disability, sex, pregnancy status, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, genetic information, political opinions or affiliations, or veteran status. This commitment applies to employees, volunteers, students, and, to the extent possible, to third parties, applicants for admission, applicants for employment, and the general public. sfcollege.edu/eaeo
Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies or concerns about discrimination or harassment, including concerns about sexual harassment or sexual violence under Title IX, should be directed to: equity.officer@sfcollege.edu
Santa Fe College reserves the right to extend deadlines and/or not to offer advertised positions. Preference will be given to eligible veterans and spouses of veterans.