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Astronomy Lab Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Astronomy Lab information

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$12

$22

$34

How much do astronomy lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for astronomy lab in the United States is $22.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $24.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Astronomy Lab vs Astronomer?

AspectAstronomy LabAstronomer
Required CredentialsTypically a degree in astronomy, physics, or related field; lab experienceAdvanced degree (Master's or PhD) often required; research experience
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, observatories, research facilitiesResearch institutions, universities, observatories
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, research labs, space agenciesUniversities, research institutes, government agencies
Common Search & ComparisonEducational programs, lab work, entry-level rolesResearch careers, professional roles, academic positions

While an Astronomy Lab refers to a physical space or a role involving hands-on work in astronomy labs, an Astronomer is a professional scientist conducting research, often with advanced degrees. Both are integral to the field but differ in scope, credentials, and work environment.

What is an astronomy lab?

An astronomy lab is a practical, hands-on learning environment where students or researchers conduct experiments and observations related to astronomy. These labs may involve using telescopes, analyzing astronomical data, simulating celestial phenomena, or processing images of stars and galaxies. The goal is to deepen understanding of astronomical concepts through direct experience and scientific investigation, complementing theoretical coursework. Astronomy labs are commonly part of university science curricula and can also be found in research institutions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Astronomy Lab Technician, and why are they important?

To excel as an Astronomy Lab Technician, you need a solid background in physics, astronomy, and laboratory techniques, usually supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with telescopes, CCD imaging, data analysis software (such as IRAF or Python), and laboratory safety protocols is crucial. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication distinguish top performers in this role. These abilities ensure accurate data collection and analysis, safe operation of equipment, and successful collaboration within research teams.

What are some typical challenges faced when working in an Astronomy Lab, and how can new team members effectively overcome them?

One common challenge in an Astronomy Lab is managing the complex instrumentation, such as telescopes and data acquisition systems, which often require specialized training and troubleshooting skills. New team members may also need to quickly adapt to irregular hours, as astronomical observations often occur at night or during specific celestial events. Collaborating closely with other scientists and technical staff is essential, as projects are frequently team-based and involve sharing data and responsibilities. To overcome these challenges, new hires should proactively seek mentorship, participate in hands-on training, and communicate openly with their colleagues to build both technical knowledge and teamwork skills.
More about Astronomy Lab jobs
Infographic showing various Astronomy Lab job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 8% Locum Tenens, 67% As Needed, 12% Full Time, and 13% Part Time. Highlights an 64% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 35% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,864 per year, or $22.5 per hour.
Adjunct, Physics/Astronomy Instructor

Adjunct, Physics/Astronomy Instructor

Pitt Community College

Greenville, NC • On-site

Other

PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Job Vacancy Details Instructs students in physics/astronomy classes and coordinates and supervises activities in the physics lab. Performs related administrative and recordkeeping duties. Interacts with and assists students in various areas.

Reports to the Department Chair, Math/Physics. What You'll Do Teaches assigned courses in physics and/or astronomy. Performs related administrative and recordkeeping duties such as evaluating textbooks; preparing lesson plans, course syllabi, handouts, tests, etc.; gathering resources for class; duplicating materials and making transparencies; conducting class; conducting critiques of students' work; grading assignments; maintaining files; etc

Prepares and/or completes various reports and forms related to classes including 10% reports, end-of-semester reports, grade reports, rolls, etc. Coordinates and supervises all activities in the physics/astronomy labs. Duties include storing and maintaining lab equipment, letting supervisor know when new equipment and supplies are needed, setting up equipment and materials for lab sessions, developing and updating laboratory exercises, etc.

Performs various student-related duties including advising students, assisting students with class registration, counseling with students, assisting students with career and study skills, providing help with job placement and contacts, writing letters of recommendation, etc. Completes various student forms such as withdrawals, registration, drop/add, and credit by examination. Administers and scores "credit by exam" tests.

Remains active in professional organizations and activities. Keeps abreast of newest research and technological advances relative to the teaching of physics/astronomy courses by reading professional journals and attending seminars, conferences, meetings, etc. Receives, reviews, processes, files and/or submits a variety of documents and reports such as attendance report, room assignment sheets, grade sheets, evaluation forms, teaching schedule, professional development forms, annual objectives, various other forms, memos, and general letters of correspondence.

Operates, utilizes, and maintains various types of equipment and supplies including computers, calculators, copier, printers, general office supplies, laser, vacuum pump, balances, various meters, signal generators, audio-visual equipment, etc. What We Are Looking For Master's degree in physics and one to two years of teaching experience. Additional Information Physical Requirements: Must be physically able to operate a variety of types of office and audio-visual equipment including computer, copier, calculator, duplicating machine; physics lab equipment; etc.

Must be physically able to exert up to twenty pounds of force occasionally and/or frequently to lift, carry, push, pull, or otherwise move objects. Physical demands are in excess of sedentary work; position requires walking, standing, stooping, reaching, crouching, fingering, etc. for extended periods of time.

Must be able to lift and/or carry weights of approximately forty pounds. Interpersonal Communication: Requires the ability to speak and/or signaling people to convey or exchange information. Includes the giving of instructions to students.

Includes the receiving of information and instructions from supervisor. Language Ability: Requires the ability to read a variety of documents, reports, and various books such as various manuals, PCC handbook and catalog, various texts, etc. Requires the ability to prepare various documents and reports such as lesson plans, grade/evaluation reports, attendance report, end-of semester reports, long-range plans, etc., using the proper format, punctuation, spelling and grammar

Requires the ability to communicate with co-workers, supervisors, subordinates, other PCC personnel, etc. with poise, voice control, and confidence. Requires the ability to be conversant in the theory, principles, and methods of effective and persuasive speaking, voice and diction, phonetics, and discussion and debate.

Intelligence: Requires the ability to apply principles of logical or scientific thinking to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions; to interpret an extensive variety of technical instructions in mathematical or diagrammatic form. ust be able to deal with several abstract and concrete variables. Requires the ability to apply rational systems such as education (teaching), physics, etc., in order to solve problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables

Verbal Aptitude: Requires the ability to record and deliver information and to follow verbal and written instructions. Must be able to instruct others via effective verbal communication. Numerical Aptitude: Requires the ability to utilize mathematical formulas; add, subtract, multiply, and divide numbers; determine percentages; utilize decimals; determine time and weight; apply principles of algebra, geometry, trigonometry, physics, and astronomy; apply principles of integral and differential calculus; utilize mathematics of nuclear physics and quantum theory; etc.

in order to solve problems and instructing others in solving problems and utilizing mathematics in a variety of areas. Form/Spatial Aptitude: Requires the ability to inspect items for proper length, width and shape. Motor Coordination: Requires the ability to coordinate hands and eyes in utilizing automated office, audio-visual equipment, and physics equipment, etc.

Manual Dexterity: Requires the ability to handle a variety of items, office equipment, control knobs, switches, etc. Must have high levels of eye/hand/foot coordination. Color Discrimination: Requires the ability to differentiate colors and shades of color.

Interpersonal Temperament: Requires the ability to deal with people beyond receiving instructions. Must be adaptable to performing under moderate stress when confronted with an emergency. Physical Communication: Requires the ability to talk and/or hear (talking - expressing or exchanging ideas by means of spoken words; hearing - perceiving nature of sounds by ear.) Knowledge of Job: Has considerable knowledge of the practices, procedures, rules and regulations of the Division and the College as they pertain to the position

Has comprehensive knowledge of the Department. Has extensive knowledge of the techniques, practices, and procedures of courses taught, and has the ability to effectively instruct others in such. Has excellent knowledge of and skills in teaching methods and procedures as they relate to the particular goals of the Department, and has the ability to apply principles of influence systems in such teaching.

Has excellent knowledge of subject matter taught. Has comprehensive knowledge of practices, procedures, and techniques involved in the physics lab, and is able to effectively supervise same. Has comprehensive knowledge of accounting and bookkeeping practices and procedures as they relate to the position.

Has knowledge of general office operations, functions, and procedures as they relate to the position. Has the ability to compile, organize, prepare, and maintain an assortment of records, reports, and related information. Has the ability to use abstract thinking in curriculum planning, course planning, etc.

Has excellent human relations skills; is able to advise students and handle student problems effectively. Has the ability to communicate with various individuals and groups such as students, staff, peers, other PCC personnel, parents, sales reps, etc. Is able to use independent judgment in routine as well as non-routine situations.

Has comprehensive knowledge of the terminology utilized within the Department. Has the ability to understand the educational and psychological aspects of job. Has the ability to comprehend, interpret, and apply regulations, procedures, and office operations.

Is able to read, understand and complete written requests and work assignments in a timely fashion. Knows how to estimate time, materials and supplies required to complete various routine activities. Is able to promote efficient completion of duties.

Has good organizational and management skills. Has the ability to operate office machines in the performance of duties. Has good knowledge of computers.

Has the ability to work under stressful conditions related to heavy workloads, meeting deadlines, working with difficult students, handling large amounts of paperwork, etc. Has the ability to make sound, educated decisions in a variety of areas on a constant basis. Quality of Work: Maintains high standards of accuracy in exercising duties and responsibilities.

Exercises immediate remedial action to correct any quality deficiencies that occur in areas of responsibility. Maintains high quality communication and interacts with all College departments and divisions, co-workers and the general public. Quantity of Work: Maintains effective and efficient output of all duties and responsibilities as described under "Specific Duties and Responsibilities." Dependability: Assumes responsibility for doing assigned work and for meeting deadlines

Completes assigned work on or before deadlines in accordance with directives, College policy, standards and prescribed procedures. Accepts accountability for meeting assigned responsibilities in the technical, human and conceptual areas. Attendance: Attends work regularly and adheres to College policies and procedures regarding absences and tardiness.

Provides adequate notice to higher management with respect to vacation time and time-off requests. Initiative and Enthusiasm: Maintains an enthusiastic, self-reliant and self-starting approach to meet job responsibilities and accountabilities. Strives to anticipate work to be done and initiates proper and acceptable direction for the completion of work with a minimum of supervision and instruction.

Judgment: Exercises analytical judgment in areas of responsibility. Identifies problems or situations as they occur and specifies decision objectives. Identifies or assists in identifying alternative solutions to problems or situations.

Implements decisions in accordance with prescribed and effective policies and procedures and with a minimum of errors. Seeks expert or experienced advice and researches problems, situations and alternatives before exercising judgment. Cooperation: Accepts supervisory instruction and direction and strives to meet the goals and objectives of same.

Questions such instruction and direction when clarification of results or consequences are justified, i.e., poor communications, variance with College policy or procedures, etc. Offers suggestions and recommendations to encourage and improve cooperation between all staff persons and departments within the College. Relationships with Others: Shares knowledge with managers, supervisors, and staff for mutual and College benefit

Contributes to maintaining high morale among all College employees. Develops and maintains cooperative and courteous relationships with department employees, staffers and managers in other departments, representatives from organizations, and the general public so as to maintain good will toward the College and to project a good image. Tactfully and effectively handles requests, suggestions and complaints from other departments and persons in order to maintain good will within the College.

Emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive image within the College. Interacts effectively with higher management, professionals, and the general public. Coordination of Work: Plans and organizes daily work routine.

Establishes priorities for the completion of work in accordance with sound time-management methodology. Avoids duplication of effort. Estimates expected time of completion of elements of work and establishes a personal schedule accordingly.

Attends meetings, planning sessions, and discussions on time. Implements work activity in accordance with priorities and estimated schedules. Maintains a calendar for meetings, deadlines, and events.

Safety and Housekeeping: Adheres to all safety and housekeeping standards established by the College and various regulatory agencies. Sees that the standards are not violated. Maintains a clean and orderly workplace.