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Astronomy Major Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Aura Astronomy

$115 - $160/hr

... astronomy, in addition to carrying out functional tasks related to the HST mission support within STScI for ESA. The ESA/AURA astronomers generally provide functional support to all major aspects of ...

Cscc

Adjunct - Astronomy

Columbus, OH · On-site

$55.88/hr

The Adjunct - Astronomy position provides quality instruction and maintains a positive learning environment in the classroom, with major emphasis placed on teaching, supporting, and evaluating ...

Aura Astronomy

Instrumentation Manager

Boulder, CO · On-site

$155 - $187/hr

... a major program within the NSO. The NSO, an NSFnational research and development center dedicated to solar science, is managed by the Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA)

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How much do astronomy major jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for astronomy major 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.

What is an astronomy major?

An Astronomy major is a course of study at a college or university focused on the scientific study of celestial objects such as stars, planets, comets, galaxies, and the universe as a whole. Students learn about the fundamental principles of physics and mathematics as they apply to space, and often gain hands-on experience with telescopes and astronomical data. This major prepares students for careers in research, education, data analysis, or further study in graduate school. Astronomy majors may also work in observatories, planetariums, or science communication.

What career paths are available to someone with an astronomy major, and how can one advance in this field?

Graduates with an Astronomy major can pursue careers in research, education, data analysis, aerospace, and science communication. Entry-level roles may include research assistant, observatory technician, or planetarium educator. Advancement often requires further specialization, such as obtaining a master's or PhD for research and academic positions, or gaining experience with advanced data analysis and programming for industry roles. Networking through internships, conferences, and professional organizations can also provide valuable opportunities for career growth.

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

To thrive as an Astronomy major, you need a solid background in physics, mathematics, and analytical problem-solving skills, usually supported by coursework in calculus and classical mechanics. Familiarity with scientific programming languages (such as Python or MATLAB), telescopes, and data analysis software is typically required. Curiosity, attention to detail, and strong communication skills help students excel in research and collaborative projects. These abilities are crucial for understanding complex astronomical phenomena and effectively sharing insights with both scientific and public audiences.

What is the difference between Astronomy Major vs Astrophysicist?

AspectAstronomy MajorAstrophysicist
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in astronomy, physics, or related fieldMaster's or Ph.D. in astrophysics or related field
Work EnvironmentUniversities, observatories, research institutions, planetariumsResearch labs, universities, government agencies, observatories
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, research organizations, planetariumsResearch institutions, government agencies like NASA, academia

While an Astronomy Major provides foundational knowledge in astronomy and related sciences, an Astrophysicist typically holds advanced degrees and conducts specialized research. The major prepares students for entry-level roles or further study, whereas astrophysicists focus on scientific discovery and analysis in professional research settings.

Is it worth it to major in astronomy?

Astronomy majors develop skills in data analysis, programming, and scientific research, which can lead to careers in research, education, or industry. However, job prospects can be competitive, and many positions require advanced degrees or specialized training. Graduates should consider their interests and the potential need for further education when evaluating the field.

What jobs are in the field of astronomy?

Jobs in astronomy include research astronomer, astrophysicist, observational astronomer, and planetary scientist. These roles often require strong skills in data analysis, programming, and use of telescopes or other observational tools, and may involve working in research institutions, observatories, or universities.
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Astronomy Major jobs near you
Infographic showing various Astronomy Major job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,230 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Astrophysics Center Program Scientist [Radio Astronomy]

Schmidt Entities

New York, NY • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Schmidt Sciences is a nonprofit organization founded in 2024 by Eric and Wendy Schmidt that works to accelerate scientific knowledge and breakthroughs with the most promising, advanced tools to support a thriving planet. The organization prioritizes research in areas poised for impact including AI and advanced computing, astrophysics, biosciences, climate, and space-as well as supporting researchers in a variety of disciplines through its science systems program.
Summary
The Astrophysics Center at Schmidt Sciences seeks an experienced radio astronomer to join a growing team supporting the development of next-generation astronomical facilities. This role will bring deep expertise in radio astronomy to the Center, helping guide the scientific development, commissioning, and operation of major facilities within the Schmidt Observatory System while contributing to the exploration of future opportunities in the field.
The successful candidate will work closely with internal staff, external partners, and the international radio astronomy community to ensure that ambitious scientific facilities are designed, built, and operated to maximize their scientific potential. The role is well suited to an established scientist with extensive experience in radio interferometry, large survey facilities, and collaborative science programs, with a demonstrated ability to work across complex scientific, engineering, and programmatic teams in multi-institutional international collaborations.
The Role
Reporting to the Director of the Astrophysics Center at Schmidt Sciences (hereafter "the Center"), the Program Scientist will join a growing multidisciplinary team supporting the Center's observatory portfolio. The role combines scientific judgment, technical insight, and collaborative stewardship across the Center's major radio astronomy activities. Working closely with internal staff, partner institutions, and the broader scientific community, responsibilities are expected to include:
  • Provide scientific and technical expertise in radio astronomy across the Center's observatory portfolio.
  • Work closely with partner institutions throughout the design, construction, commissioning, and scientific operation of major radio astronomy facilities.
  • Evaluate scientific capabilities, technical readiness, project milestones, and commissioning activities to help ensure facilities achieve their scientific objectives.
  • Review survey strategy, operational planning, calibration approaches, data products, and software plans, providing independent scientific assessment where appropriate.
  • Coordinate scientific and technical reviews within the Center, synthesizing input from internal staff and external experts.
  • Provide scientific oversight for the Center's gifts and grants in radio astronomy, monitoring progress and identifying opportunities to maximize scientific impact.
  • Represent the Center in technical reviews, scientific meetings, workshops, and interactions with the broader radio astronomy community.
  • Build collaborative relationships with partner institutions, scientific teams, and the broader radio astronomy community.
  • Advise Center leadership on scientific priorities, emerging opportunities, and strategic decisions in radio astronomy, including contributing to the exploration of future radio astronomy facilities and concepts.

Requirements
  • Ph.D. in Astronomy, Astrophysics, or a closely related field.
  • Minimum 10 years of experience in academia, industry, government, or private research laboratories following the Ph.D.
  • Demonstrated scientific leadership within a major radio astronomy collaboration, observatory, or survey.
  • Extensive experience with radio interferometry, including the development, commissioning, operation, or scientific exploitation of large radio arrays.
  • Broad understanding of radio astronomy instrumentation, calibration, imaging, data processing, and scientific operations.
  • Demonstrated ability to work effectively across scientific, engineering, and multidisciplinary teams in large, multi-institutional collaborations.
  • Excellent scientific judgment, communication skills, and the ability to build productive relationships with partner institutions and the broader research community.
  • Based at one of the Schmidt Sciences offices (Maryland, New York, or Virginia), with the ability to travel domestically and internationally as required.

Desired Additional Skills
  • Experience with the commissioning or early scientific operation of facility-class radio observatories.
  • Experience participating in scientific advisory committees, technical review panels, or governance activities for major astronomical facilities.
  • Experience working with external collaborators, partner institutions, or multi-institutional scientific teams.
  • Expertise in one or more areas enabled by modern radio astronomy, such as transient astronomy, pulsars, cosmology, exoplanets, or multi-messenger astrophysics.
  • Familiarity with large-scale radio astronomy software, calibration pipelines, or survey data products.
  • Broad scientific interests spanning multiple areas of radio astronomy and an interest in future observatory concepts.

$200,000 - $250,000 a year
This is an exempt position.
Schmidt Sciences, is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer that proudly pursues and hires a
diverse workforce. We do not make hiring or employment decisions on the basis of race, color,
religion or religious belief, ethnic or national origin, nationality, sex, gender, gender-identity, sexual
orientation, disability, age, military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by applicable local,
state, or federal laws or prohibited by Company policy. We strive for a healthy and safe workplace and
strictly prohibit harassment of any kind.

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