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Astronomy Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Canyons School District

$89.24/hr

Astronomy Opening Date: 09/29/2023 Description We are accepting applications for the Adjunct Astronomy Instructor Applicant Pool. Adjunct pools are open on a fiscal year basis for continuous ...

Des Moines Area Community College

Position InformationJob Title Adjunct Instructor, Astronomy Campus Various Locations, IA Job Number 26-ADJ72 Employment Date Fall Semester 2026/Spring Semester 2027 Job Category Adjunct Faculty ...

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How much do astronomy instructor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for astronomy instructor in the United States is $21.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $26.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an astronomy instructor do?

An Astronomy Instructor teaches students about the fundamental concepts of astronomy, including celestial bodies, the universe's structure, and space phenomena. They develop lesson plans, deliver lectures, lead laboratory sessions, and sometimes organize observational activities with telescopes. Instructors also assess student progress, answer questions, and may contribute to curriculum development. Their goal is to make complex astronomical concepts accessible and engaging for learners.

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

To thrive as an Astronomy Instructor, you need a solid background in astronomy or physics, typically supported by an advanced degree and teaching credentials. Familiarity with telescopes, planetarium software, and learning management systems (LMS) is crucial for delivering engaging and effective lessons. Exceptional communication, enthusiasm for science, and the ability to inspire curiosity help you connect with students and foster a positive learning environment. These skills and qualities are vital for effectively conveying complex concepts and nurturing a lifelong interest in astronomy among learners.

What are some common challenges astronomy instructors face when engaging students with complex scientific concepts?

Astronomy Instructors often encounter the challenge of making abstract or highly technical astronomical concepts accessible and engaging for students with varying levels of scientific background. To address this, instructors typically incorporate hands-on activities, simulations, and visual aids to bring topics like stellar evolution or cosmology to life. They also foster interactive discussions and encourage curiosity, helping students connect theoretical knowledge to real-world phenomena. Collaboration with colleagues in physics or mathematics departments can further enhance the learning experience and provide additional support for students.

What is the difference between Astronomy Instructor vs Planetarium Educator?

AspectAstronomy InstructorPlanetarium Educator
Required CredentialsDegree in Astronomy, Physics, or Education; teaching certification often preferredSimilar credentials; background in astronomy or education beneficial
Work EnvironmentClassrooms, outdoor observatories, science centersPlanetarium theaters, science museums, educational centers
Employer & Industry UsageSchools, universities, science centersPlanetariums, museums, public science outreach programs
Common Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

Both Astronomy Instructors and Planetarium Educators share similar educational backgrounds and work environments focused on science outreach. However, Astronomy Instructors typically teach in classrooms or outdoor settings, while Planetarium Educators focus on engaging audiences within planetarium theaters. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find roles aligned with their skills and interests in astronomy education.

More about Astronomy Instructor jobs

What states have the most Astronomy Instructor jobs?

States with the most job openings for Astronomy Instructor jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Astronomy Instructor jobs?

For Astronomy Instructor jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Astronomy Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Astronomy Instructor job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 65% Full Time, 31% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,929 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

Astronomy Instructor (Part-Time Faculty Pool) Fresno City College

Fresno, CA • On-site

State Center Community College District
Education • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about State Center Community College Districtexternal

$45.49 - $61.78/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 22 days ago

State Center Community College District rating

9.5

Company rating: 9.5 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Announcement Information
Posting Number Title Astronomy Instructor (Part-Time Faculty Pool) Fresno City College Campus Location Fresno City College Start Date Essential Functions of Position
The ideal candidate will share Fresno City College's commitment to educating its racially and socioeconomically diverse student population. As of Fall 2017, we currently enroll over 24,000 students of which 54% are Latinx, 10% are Asian/Pacific Islander, 5% are Black/African American, 23% are White, 1% American Indian/Alaska Native, and 6% are multiracial. FCC is a Hispanic-Serving Institution, reflecting the great responsibility that the College has to the educational attainment and economic well-being of the surrounding community. The successful candidate will join a department dedicated to the use of curriculum responsive to the students it serves. 
Providing instruction in Astronomy in a variety of instructional settings and times, including evening and/or weekends, on-line or off-campus and large group instruction classes as needed, the instructor will be responsible for:
  • Maintaining standards of professional conduct and ethics appropriate to the professional position and currency in teaching Astronomy; 
  • Teaching introductory physics, general physics, physical science and astronomy courses; 
  • Teaching trigonometry and calculus based physics courses for majors and non-majors; 
  • Using a variety of pedagogies and integrating a wide range of instructional delivery systems including innovative and creative uses of technology for face-to-face, on-line, and/or hybrid formats; 
  • Communicating effectively with students; 
  • Using effective teaching methods appropriate to the subject matter, adherence to institutionally approved curriculum course outlines of record; 
  • Evaluating student progress through tests and examinations, written assignments, oral responses, etc. in keeping with course objectives; 
  • Providing course syllabi to students; 
  • Maintaining classroom records in accordance with District Policy; 
  • Turning in all required student grading and evaluation reports in a timely manner; and 
  • Otherwise fulfilling all of the duties and responsibilities of instructors as required by Administrative Regulation 7122.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Master's in physics, astronomy or astrophysics;
    OR 
     
  • Bachelor's in physics or astronomy AND master's in engineering, mathematics, meteorology or geophysics;
    OR 
     
  • A valid California Community College credential;
    OR 
     
  • The equivalent education and/or experience (requires an equivalency).
 
All candidates must have evidence of responsiveness to and understanding of the diverse academic, socioeconomic, cultural, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, and ethnic backgrounds of community college students, as these factors relate to the need for equity-minded practice within the classroom.
Desirable Qualifications
  • Ability to design and implement innovative teaching methodologies based on physics education research; 
  • Commitment to interacting and working successfully as a team with science instructors, laboratory technicians, and other colleagues; 
  • Enthusiasm for teaching and assisting students to succeed; 
  • Related work and professional experience; 
  • Experience in computer assisted instruction and other instructional technologies; 
  • Ability to communicate effectively (oral and written) and maintain effective working relationships with students, faculty, staff, and administration; 
  • Ability to develop new and current curriculum and focus on student learning outcomes to improve student learning; 
  • Experience working with students of various cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds; 
  • Recent experience working with African American, Latinx, Native American, and other racially minoritized students in the classroom and an understanding of how historical patterns of exclusions of these groups in higher education shape patterns of participation and outcomes; 
  • Willingness to examine and re-mediate one's instructional, relational, and classroom practices to more effectively engage and support racially minoritized students; 
  • Experience and skill with addressing issues of equity in the classroom; 
  • Potential for contribution to institutional vitality and growth; and 
  • Knowledge of the community college and its mission and goals.
Salary and Benefits
Starting rates are $45.49 - $61.78 for lecture, $38.67 - $52.55 for lab, and $38.30 - $52.05 for non-instructional. Sick leave accrual is based on assignment hours.
Selection Procedure
The selection and hiring process will be explained by the hiring department if the candidate is extended an opportunity to interview.
Please note: This position does not have a closing date and applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis until the position(s) is/are filled. By applying for this position, you understand that you will be placed in a continuous pool. If at any time you are no longer interested in this position, please withdraw your application.
Additional Information
This is a part-time position. Open until filled. Start dates may vary.
Additional Information about the Position
FCC Institutional Research Site
Open Date Close Date Closing Time Open Until Filled No Quick Link https://scccd.peopleadmin.com/postings/2212

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