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Astronomy Image Processing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$107K - $125K/yr

NSF's NOIRLab is reshaping public engagement with astronomy and data science. Our Education and ... An interactive astronomical image viewer with data overlays * Classroom web apps built on real ...

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Astronomy Image Processing information

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$29

$36

$40

How much do astronomy image processing jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for astronomy image processing in the United States is $36.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $32.69 and $39.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is astronomy image processing?

Astronomy image processing is the technique of enhancing and analyzing images captured by telescopes and other astronomical instruments. This field involves correcting for distortions, removing noise, and extracting meaningful scientific data from raw images of celestial objects. Experts in astronomy image processing use specialized software and algorithms to reveal details not visible to the naked eye, aiding in discoveries and research. The process is essential for both professional astronomers and enthusiasts to interpret and present astronomical data accurately.

What skills and qualifications are needed for astronomy image processing?

To excel in Astronomy Image Processing, you need a solid background in physics or astronomy, strong analytical abilities, and experience with digital imaging techniques, typically supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with programming languages like Python or IDL, as well as proficiency in specialized software such as IRAF or Astropy, is crucial. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication help you interpret complex data and collaborate with research teams. These skills are essential for producing accurate scientific results, advancing research, and ensuring the reliability of astronomical observations.

What are common challenges in astronomy image processing, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in astronomy image processing often encounter challenges such as dealing with large datasets, removing noise and artifacts from raw images, and ensuring data accuracy for scientific analysis. Addressing these issues typically involves using specialized software tools, developing custom algorithms, and collaborating closely with astronomers and data scientists. Staying updated on the latest processing techniques and maintaining strong attention to detail are essential for producing reliable results and supporting research objectives.

What is the difference between Astronomy Image Processing vs Astronomical Data Analyst?

AspectAstronomy Image ProcessingAstronomical Data Analyst
Required CredentialsDegree in astronomy, astrophysics, or related field; experience with imaging softwareDegree in data science, statistics, or astronomy; proficiency in data analysis tools
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, observatories, space agenciesResearch institutions, observatories, data centers
Industry UsageFocuses on processing raw images from telescopes and satellitesAnalyzes processed data to interpret astronomical phenomena
Common Search/ComparisonOften compared for roles involving image dataRelated but more data analysis-oriented

While both roles involve working with astronomical data, Astronomy Image Processing primarily focuses on converting raw telescope images into usable formats, whereas Astronomical Data Analysts interpret processed data to derive scientific insights. Both roles require a background in astronomy or related fields, but their core tasks differ in processing versus analysis.

What other helpful pages are available for Astronomy Image Processing?

Other pages related to Astronomy Image Processing:

Infographic showing various Astronomy Image Processing job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,961 per year, or $36 per hour.

Senior Full stack Engineer (Software Engineer III)

On-site

$107K - $125K/yr

Other

Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Take ownership of the full-stack implementation of EPO web products.

  • Lead the frontend development of new features from concept to release, defining scope, collaborating on UX, coding, testing, deploying.

  • Build interactive tools and data visualizations that communicate complex astronomical data to non-experts.


Job description

NSF’s NOIRLab is reshaping public engagement with astronomy and data science. Our Education and Public Outreach (EPO) team at the Vera C. Rubin Observatory builds interactive, data-driven digital experiences and visualizations that connect learners of all ages with the cosmos. We are looking for a Senior Fullstack Engineer to help lead the development of engaging web-based data visualizations that make Rubin’s data accessible, understandable and inspiring to the public.

This is more than just a software engineering role, it is an opportunity to shape how millions of people experience the universe.

About the Role

As a Senior Fullstack Engineer on our EPO team, you will be instrumental in architecting and delivering modern, visualization-rich web applications that support our educational and public science initiatives. You will lead feature development, guide frontend strategy and UX implementation and collaborate closely with designers, scientists and other engineers. Your work will directly impact products ranging from interactive classroom investigations to rich astronomical visualizations and Rubin’s public-facing websites.

What You Will Be Working On

Our stack includes a headless Craft CMS (PHP/PostgreSQL), a React/Next.js frontend and content delivery via GraphQL, all deployed in the Google Cloud Platform. While you will work on the full stack, your primary focus will be on building modern, performant, web applications with accessible and interactive data visualizations and experiences.

Key projects include:

  • An interactive astronomical image viewer with data overlays
  • Classroom web apps built on real Rubin Observatory data
  • The public-facing Rubin Observatory website
  • A component library of reusable React/Next.js widgets for science education
Core Responsibilities
  • Take ownership of the full-stack implementation of EPO web products
  • Lead the frontend development of new features from concept to release, defining scope, collaborating on UX, coding, testing, deploying
  • Drive frontend architecture and contribute to strategic technical direction in collaboration with other team members
  • Partner with our UI/UX designer to bring thoughtful, accessible, user-friendly designs to life
  • Build interactive tools and data visualizations that communicate complex astronomical data to non-experts
  • Identify and champion tech debt and performance optimization opportunities
  • Ensure products meet WCAG accessibility standards
  • Contribute to automated testing (Cypress/Playwright) and documentation
  • Conduct code reviews and collaborate closely with engineers, product owners and external stakeholders
  • Mentor junior engineers and support knowledge sharing across the team
Requirements
  • 8+ years of professional software development experience, including leadership on multiple projects
  • 5+ years working with React
  • Strong understanding of React Server Components, advanced caching strategies and security best practices with React/Next.js
  • Extensive, proven experience with TypeScript
  • Extensive, proven experience with Git, GitHub Actions and CI/CD workflows
  • Extensive, proven experience with GraphQL and REST APIs
  • Extensive, proven experience with SQL and database schema design
  • Extensive, proven experience with Craft CMS and other content management systems
  • Extensive, proven experience writing backend services and APIs in Python
  • Clear and effective communicator, adept at conveying technical information to non-technical audiences
  • Comfortable working in a remote, distributed team environment
  • Experience solving frontend performance issues
  • Familiarity navigating a cloud provider web console
Preferences
  • 10+ years of professional software development experience
  • Experience with creating visualizations with WebGL frameworks
  • Industry experience in mission-driven tech, with a focus on delivering impactful, user-centered solutions
  • Passion for astronomy, science communication or online education
  • 3+ years with Next.js
  • Experience with CSS modules and React Three Fiber
Salary Range

$107,400 – $125,700 per year. The final salary will depend on skills, qualifications and experience.

Why Join Us

At NSF’s NOIRLab, we believe in science for everyone. Our EPO team is committed to building tools that not only inform but ignite curiosity and empower discovery. You will join a collaborative, mission-driven team that values creativity, experimentation and technical excellence — and you will help shape how a new generation interacts with the night sky.

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 atBenefits by Location - Aura Human Resources

Individuals needing assistance with the employment process can request assistance here .

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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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