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Astronomy Degree Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Master's degree in astronomy or a closely related field from an accredited institution * Evidence of satisfactory teaching ability. Desirable Qualifications * College-level astronomy teaching ...

Minimum Qualifications Candidates qualifying to teach Astronomy courses must have a minimum of a Master's degree with 18 or more graduate semester hours in any combination of the qualifying fields ...

Minimum Qualifications Master's degree in astronomy or a closely related field from an accredited institution Evidence of satisfactory teaching ability. Desirable Qualifications College-level ...

Masters degree in a field directly related to the area of instruction, or a masters degree with at least 18 graduate credit hours in the subject area of instruction. * Prior to start, approval will ...

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Astronomy Degree information

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How much do astronomy degree jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for astronomy degree in the United States is $26.07, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.36 and $28.61 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is astronomy a high paying job?

Astronomy careers typically have median salaries that are moderate compared to other science and engineering fields, with many positions in academia, research institutions, or government agencies. Salaries often depend on experience, education level, and location, and advanced roles such as research scientists or university professors tend to pay higher wages. However, astronomy is generally considered a passion-driven field with limited high-paying opportunities compared to some technical or medical professions.

What can you do with an astronomy degree?

An astronomy degree can open doors to a variety of careers in science, technology, and education. Graduates often work as research scientists, data analysts, educators, or in roles related to aerospace and observatories. Some pursue advanced degrees for careers in academia or specialized research. Additionally, skills gained—such as data analysis, programming, and critical thinking—are highly valued in fields like finance, engineering, and software development. Overall, an astronomy degree provides a strong foundation for diverse career paths both within and outside of astronomy.

What types of entry-level positions are available for graduates with an astronomy degree, and how do these roles typically support larger research projects?

Graduates with an astronomy degree often start in entry-level roles such as research assistant, observatory technician, or data analyst. In these positions, they commonly support senior researchers by collecting and processing astronomical data, maintaining equipment, and assisting with the preparation of reports or publications. These roles are highly collaborative, often involving teamwork with scientists, engineers, and IT specialists to ensure smooth research operations. This hands-on experience provides valuable exposure to advanced research methods and can pave the way for further study or career advancement in academia, government agencies, or industry.

What can one do with an astronomy degree?

An astronomy degree prepares individuals for careers such as research astronomer, astrophysicist, or planetary scientist, often involving data analysis, telescope operation, and scientific communication. Graduates can work in observatories, research institutions, government agencies, or pursue further education for specialized roles.

Is astronomy a useful major?

An astronomy degree prepares individuals for careers in research, education, and science communication, often requiring strong skills in mathematics, physics, and data analysis. While the major provides a solid foundation for various science-related roles, additional training or advanced degrees may be necessary for certain positions such as research scientist or university professor.

What is the difference between Astronomy Degree vs Astrophysics Technician?

AspectAstronomy DegreeAstrophysics Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in Astronomy or related fieldAssociate's or Bachelor's in Physics or Astronomy
Work EnvironmentResearch institutions, observatories, universitiesLaboratories, observatories, fieldwork
Employer & IndustryAcademic, government, research organizationsResearch labs, observatories, aerospace companies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

While an Astronomy Degree provides a broad foundation in celestial phenomena and research skills, an Astrophysics Technician focuses on supporting research through technical and operational tasks. Both roles are integral to space and astronomy industries but differ in education level and job responsibilities.

Does NASA hire astronomers?

NASA employs astronomers and astrophysicists in research, mission planning, and data analysis roles. These positions typically require advanced degrees in astronomy, physics, or related fields, along with skills in data analysis and scientific research. Job opportunities are often posted through NASA's official careers website and may involve working in laboratories or on space missions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive with an Astronomy degree, and why are they important?

To thrive with an Astronomy degree, you need a solid grounding in physics, mathematics, and data analysis, typically evidenced by a bachelor's or advanced degree in astronomy or a related field. Familiarity with tools such as telescopes, astronomical imaging software, and programming languages like Python or MATLAB is commonly required. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help individuals excel in research, collaboration, and scientific outreach. These competencies are vital for conducting precise scientific investigations, interpreting complex data, and sharing discoveries within the scientific community.
More about Astronomy Degree jobs
What cities are hiring for Astronomy Degree jobs? Cities with the most Astronomy Degree job openings:
What states have the most Astronomy Degree jobs? States with the most job openings for Astronomy Degree jobs include:
Infographic showing various Astronomy Degree job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 89% As Needed, 4% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 59% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 40% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,230 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 2 days ago


Job description

Title: Astronomy Instructor

Position Type: Instructor

College: Red Rocks Community College

Division: Academic Affairs

Department: RRCC Engineering

Campus: RRCC Lakewood Campus

Location: Lakewood

Salary Range: $1,213.06 to $1,881.40 per credit hour

Who We Are:

Red Rocks Community College exemplifies extraordinary. We are dedicated to our Vision and Mission, which promote student achievement, staff empowerment, and community engagement. We live our values: Learning, Collaboration, Community, Belonging, and Empowerment.
RRCC seeks applicants who understand and have first-hand experience working with diverse populations, which may include but are not limited to, historically marginalized populations such as people of color, LGBTQ+ community members, veterans, first generation graduates, and people with disabilities.

Job Summary:

Red Rocks Community College seeks dynamic, dedicated, and student-centered individuals to serve as Part-Time Astronomy Instructors. Reporting to the Physical Science and Engineering Department Chair, this role is responsible for delivering high-quality instruction in a variety of Astronomy courses, across multiple modalities—face-to-face, hybrid, and online. Teaching assignments may take place during daytime, evening, or weekend hours at either of the college’s campuses or online. The ideal candidate demonstrates a strong commitment to student learning, academic excellence, and equity, while fostering an inclusive classroom environment that supports the diverse needs of our student population.
The work schedule for this position is variable, based on course availability, at the Lakewood campus location. May require hours outside of normal work schedule.
This position may work up to 28 hours per week, depending on budget and need.

Compensation is based on credit hour/contact hour ratios and ranges from $1,213.06 to $1,881.40 per credit hour.


This posting will remain open on a continuous basis, and applicants will be selected as needed until the position is filled or the posting expires. Please note: 
• Only applicants selected for interviews will be contacted. 
• Completed applications will remain active for 12 months from the date of submission. 
• There is no need to reapply during this 12-month period unless there are updates to your application materials. 
• After the 12-month period, applicants are welcome to reapply if the position is still open. 

Competencies/KSAs:

• Strong communication, interpersonal, collaboration, and mentoring skills.
• Ability to work effectively with diverse student populations and foster an inclusive learning environment.
• Proficiency with instructional technology, learning management systems, and standard office software.
• Ability to follow approved curriculum, student learning outcomes, and college policies and procedures.
• Flexibility to teach daytime, evening, weekend, hybrid, laboratory, classroom, and off-site courses as assigned.
• Ability to adapt instruction to meet program needs, course objectives, and varying student learning needs.

Required Qualifications:

• A master’s degree in Astronomy, Physics, Geology, or a related field from an accredited institution.
Tested experience may be used in lieu of the degree requirement on a case-by-case basis. 


Physical & Cognitive Demands
The following are some of the physical and cognitive demands commonly associated with this position.
• Occasionally moves, positions, and transports files and office materials weighing up to 10 lbs.
• This is largely a sedentary role. This position operates in an office environment and constantly uses a computer, and routinely uses standard office equipment including phones, copiers, etc.
• The person in this position constantly communicates with internal and external constituents and students. Must be able to exchange accurate information in these situations.
• Cognitive demands include comparing, copying, computing, compiling, analyzing, coordinating, synthesizing, negotiating, communicating, instructing, and interpersonal skills.

Selection Process:

Candidates will be evaluated based on their qualifications as related to the duties and responsibilities of the position. Candidates may redact any personally identifiable information on their materials including but are not limited to age, date of birth, and dates of attendance and date of graduation for educational institutions. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Application Instructions: 

Advertised Hourly Pay
The compensation for this position is $1,213.06 - $1,881.40 per credit hour, commensurate with education and experience. This is a part-time, FLSA exempt position and may work up to 28 hours per week, depending on budget and need. This position has been exempted from the State Classified System.


To Apply
All applicants must submit:
1. Resume
2. Detailed letter of interest (cover letter) addressing the job announcement.
3. Unofficial transcripts
Visit our Careers website to submit your application.
If you have questions regarding this position, please contact Shane Spivey, Physical Science and Engineering Chair at Shane.Spivey@rrcc.edu.

Additional Information/Benefits:

Reasonable Accommodation Statement
Red Rocks Community College provides reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities on a case-by-case basis. If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process and/or during the course of employment, please contact Jennifer Matthews, Executive Director of Human Resources, at (303) 914-6298 or Jennifer.Matthews@rrcc.edu