1

Astronomy Assistant Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Position Summary The National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) is a prestigious research and ... At NRAO we are seeking an Assistant Scientist to join a rapidly growing team to support the ngVLA ...

Position Summary The National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) is a prestigious research and ... At NRAO we are seeking an Assistant Scientist to join a rapidly growing team to support the ngVLA ...

... * Assist with planning and executing stakeholder events, workshops, and briefings to foster ... Bachelor's degree or higher in Astronomy, Astro-Biology, Astrophysics, Astronautics, Aerospace ...

... * Assist with planning and executing stakeholder events, workshops, and briefings to foster ... Bachelor's degree or higher in Astronomy, Astro-Biology, Astrophysics, Astronautics, Aerospace ...

Operations Liaison

Springfield, VA · On-site

$145K - $166K/yr

... * Assist with planning and executing stakeholder events, workshops, and briefings to foster ... Bachelor's degree or higher in Astronomy, Astro-Biology, Astrophysics, Astronautics, Aerospace ...

Head of Software Engineering

Charlottesville, VA · On-site +1

$251K/yr

Position Summary The National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) is a prestigious research and ... Reporting to the Assistant Director for Data Management & Software (DMS), the Head of Software ...

Head of Software Engineering

Charlottesville, VA · On-site +1

$251K/yr

Position Summary The National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) is a prestigious research and ... Reporting to the Assistant Director for Data Management & Software (DMS), the Head of Software ...

Valet

Meadows Of Dan, VA · On-site

$15/hr

... on-site astronomy team, an exceptional culinary program with five distinct farm-to-table ... them. * Assist guests with the transportation of luggage to and from their rooms, ensuring a ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

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 Virginia?

The most popular types of Astronomy jobs in Virginia are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Astronomy Assistant jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Astronomy Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Astronomy Assistant job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Adjunct Faculty Pool - Astronomy

Richmond, VA • On-site

Piedmont Virginia Community College
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 201 - 500 employees

$819 - $1.6K/wk

Part-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

Posting Details
Posting Summary
Working Title
Adjunct Faculty Pool - Astronomy
Role Title
Role Code
FLSA
Exempt
Pay Band
UG
Position Number
282A0000
Agency
Piedmont Virginia Community College
Division
Piedmont Virginia Community College (Div)
Work Location
Albemarle - 003
Hiring Range
$819-$1693 per credit hour, TBD based on experience and rank upon hire.
Emergency/Essential Personnel
No
EEO Category
I-Faculty
Full Time or Part Time
Part Time
Does this position have telework options? -Telework options are subject to change based on business needs-
Yes
Does this position have a bilingual or multilingual skill requirement or preference?
No
Work Schedule
Adjunct faculty positions are appointed on a course-by-course, semester basis. as needed. Responsibilities include teaching developmental and/or college-level courses, which may include distance-learning courses during the day and evening, on weekdays and weekends.
Courses may be offered day, evening, weekend and at various locations.
Primarily face-to-face with the possibility of remote instruction
Sensitive Position
No
Job Description
Piedmont Virginia Community College (PVCC) is a nonresidential two-year institution of higher education that serves Central Virginia - principally residents of the City of Charlottesville and the counties of Albemarle, Buckingham, Fluvanna, Greene, Louisa and Nelson. Our scenic campus is located in Albemarle County, Virginia. We are one of 23 community colleges in Virginia that comprise the Virginia Community College System (VCCS). PVCC is nationally recognized for its outstanding transfer curriculum; its relationship with its neighbor, the University of Virginia; and its Workforce Development Programs serving local employers.
The position may include teaching at any PVCC location, including the Giuseppe Center in Greene County and correctional facilities in Fluvanna, Buckingham, and Dillwyn
Courses may be offered day, evening, weekend and at various locations.
Applications will be received and considered on a continuous basis, as openings occur. Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until needed positions are filled and/or the closing date of our announcement.
We are seeking to identify qualified and interested adjunct faculty members in the following teaching disciplines and/or subject areas: ASTRONOMY
Special Assignments
May be required to perform other duties as assigned. May be required to assist the agency or state government generally in the event of an emergency declaration by the Governor.
KSA's/Required Qualifications
The successful candidate will possess expert skills, knowledge, experience and education in the subject area and a history of successful teaching or related experience.
Master's degree with 18 graduate semester hours in Astronomy.
Additional Considerations
Two years teaching experience, work experience in the field, and experience with on-line teaching.
Ph.D. in Astronomy.
Operation of a State Vehicle
No
Supervises Employees
No
Required Travel
To and from any college campus/site location as assigned.
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number
ADJ_2860P
Recruitment Type
General Public - G
Number of Vacancies
1
Position End Date (if temporary)
Job Open Date
12/16/2025
Job Close Date
12/31/2026
Open Until Filled
Agency Website
www.pvcc.edu
Contact Name
Human Resources
Email
humanresources@pvcc.edu
Phone Number
4349616567
Special Instructions to Applicants
Application Package must include-
• Online Application
• Resume
• Cover letter
• Names, addresses, email and telephone numbers of three (3) professional references
In order to better serve our customers, PVCC will only accept online applications. PVCC will not accept hand-delivered applications or applications submitted by mail, email, or fax. Cover letters, resume/curriculum vitae, and unofficial transcripts must be attached electronically to the online application. Unofficial copies of transcripts will suffice for initial review. Official transcripts are required upon employment. Foreign transcripts must be evaluated by an accredited evaluation service.
References & criminal background checks required.
Piedmont Virginia Community College is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action Employer.
This position will not consider candidates who require immigration sponsorship at this time.
Additional Information
Piedmont Virginia Community College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, political affiliation, disability, veteran status, sex, age or sexual orientation in its programs and activities. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policies: Associate Vice President of Human Resources, 501 College Dr., Main Building, Room M132, Charlottesville, VA 22902; 434.961.6567.
We are a "Virginia Values Veterans" (V3) official certified company and state agency that provides hiring preference to Veterans and Members of the Virginia National Guard in support of Executive Order 29, (2010). If you are a Veteran or Virginia National Guard Member, we urge you to respond accordingly on your state application.
Background Check Statement Disclaimer
The selected candidate's offer is contingent upon the successful completion of an extensive criminal background investigation, which may include: fingerprint checks, local agency checks, employment verification, verification of education, credit checks (relevant to employment), and other checks requested by the VCCS such as I-9 and E-Verify requirements. Additionally, selected candidates may be required to complete the Commonwealth's Statement of Economic Interest. http://ethics.dls.virginia.gov/
EEO Statement
The Virginia Community College System (VCCS) provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, political affiliation, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or other non-merit factors.
ADA Statement
The Virginia Community College System (VCCS) is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and complies with the Americans with Disabilities Acts (ADA and ADAAA), to provide, reasonable accommodation to applicants in need of access to the application, interviewing, and selection processes when requested.
E-Verify Statement
VCCS uses E-Verify to check employee eligibility to work in the United States. You will be required to complete an I-9 form and provide documentation of your identity for employment purposes.
Quicklink for Posting
https://jobs.vccs.edu/postings/91192