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Astronomy Major Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Adjunct - Astronomy

Columbus, OH

$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 ...

W. M. Keck Observatory

Staff Astronomer I

Kamuela, HI · On-site

$83K - $125K/yr

The successful candidate will conduct astronomy-related research and contribute to scientific ... Contribute to major upgrades of existing instruments Data Reduction Support * Contribute to the ...

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How much do astronomy major jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 20, 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 are the highest paying jobs in astronomy?

Astronomy majors can pursue high-paying roles such as astrophysicist, research scientist, or data scientist, often requiring advanced degrees and specialized skills. These positions typically offer salaries ranging from $80,000 to over $150,000 annually, especially in research institutions, government agencies, or private industry. Experience with programming, data analysis, and scientific instrumentation enhances earning potential in these fields.

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 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.

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 the use of telescopes or other observational tools, and may involve working in research institutions, observatories, or universities.

What are the job opportunities for astronomy?

Astronomy majors can pursue careers as research astronomers, astrophysicists, or planetary scientists, often working at observatories, research institutions, or universities. They may also find opportunities in data analysis, science communication, or aerospace industries, frequently requiring strong analytical skills and proficiency with software tools like MATLAB or Python. Advanced positions typically require a master's degree or Ph.D. in astronomy or related fields.

Is astronomy a useful major?

An astronomy major prepares students for careers in research, education, or science communication, often requiring strong skills in mathematics 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 in academia or industry.

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 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.
More about Astronomy Major jobs
What cities are hiring for Astronomy Major jobs? Cities with the most Astronomy Major job openings:
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What job categories do people searching Astronomy Major jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Astronomy Major jobs are:
Astronomy Major jobs near you
Infographic showing various Astronomy Major job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% Locum Tenens, 65% As Needed, 13% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 64% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 35% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,230 per year, or $26.1 per hour.
Graduate Research Assistant

Graduate Research Assistant

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

Edinburg, TX • On-site

$1.2K/mo

Other

Re-posted 28 days ago

University Of Texas Rio Grande Valley rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

275th of 555 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Title Information
Assistantship Title Graduate Research Assistant/ Physics and Astronomy Job Class Code 10095 FLSA Exempt Minimum Qualifications
1. Currently admitted to the Graduate School
2. Be in good academic standing
3. Be registered full-time for the respective semester (nine semester credit hours during the fall
semester, nine semester credit hours during spring semester, six semester credit hours during the
summer session(s)), or in the required number of semester credit hours to fulfill the only remaining requirements on the degree plan.
Position Information
Posting Number A1058 Working Title Graduate Research Assistant Location Edinburg, Texas College College of Sciences Department College of Sciences / Physics and Astronomy Division Provost - Academic Affairs FTE .5 Scope of Job
Graduate Assistants will be assigned to specific faculty and their responsibilities will vary with the needs of the faculty
Discipline Specific Required Qualifications
The Graduate Research Assistantship is available to master's students who are assigned to a specific faculty member. Duties are related to the student's field of study and will vary depending upon the project and assigned responsibilities. Graduate Research Assistants may also function as lab assistants, graders, and/or other endeavors that assist faculty members in the department's instructional efforts. Graduate assistants may be assigned to professional staff in any Division of the University. Graduate students will work 20 hours per week with flexible distribution.
Preferred Qualifications
The Graduate Research Assistant position is available to full-time graduate students, preferably those in good academic standing and in the Physics & Astronomy major.
Salary $1,250/month Number of Vacancies Varies Desired Start Date 09/01/2024
Posting Detail Information
EEO Statement
It is the policy of The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley to promote and ensure equal employment opportunities for all individuals without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information or protected veteran status. In accordance with the requirements of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, as amended, our University is committed to comply with all government requirements and ensures non-discrimination in its education programs and activities, including employment. We encourage women, minorities and differently abled persons to apply for employment positions of interest.
Open Date 06/21/2024 Special Instructions to Applicants
Dear Applicant, Human Resources will not be held responsible for redacting any confidential information from the documents you attach with your application. The confidential information includes the following: *Date of Birth *Social Security Number *Gender *Ethnicity/Race Please make sure that you omit this information prior to submission. We are advising that Human Resources will be forwarding your application to the department as per your submission. The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley reserves the right to discontinue accepting applications prior to the stated close date of this position, after meeting the posting requirement of three (3) calendar days.
Quick Link https://utrgv-sb.peopleadmin.com/postings/43367

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