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Astronomy Major Jobs (NOW HIRING)

W. M. Keck Observatory

Staff Astronomer I

Kamuela, HI ยท On-site

$83K - $100K/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 ...

W. M. Keck Observatory

Staff Astronomer I

Kamuela, HI ยท On-site

$83K - $100K/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 ...

Astronomer

Cloud Solutions Architect

$175K - $240K/yr

Astronomer empowers data teams to bring mission-critical software, analytics, and AI to life and is ... Experience with at least one major cloud provider API/tooling * Ability to read code * Work ...

Astronomer

$125K - $130K/yr

Astronomer empowers data teams to bring mission-critical software, analytics, and AI to life and is ... Experience managing a Production distributed system with at least one major cloud provider (one or ...

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Astronomy Major information

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How much do astronomy major jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 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 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 the field of astronomy include astronomer, astrophysicist, planetary scientist, and observational astronomer. These roles often require strong skills in data analysis, programming, and the use of telescopes or other scientific instruments, and may involve research, data collection, and public outreach.

Is it worth it to major in astronomy?

Astronomy majors can pursue careers in research, education, or science communication, often requiring strong skills in mathematics, physics, and data analysis. Job prospects may be competitive, and advanced positions typically require graduate degrees, but the field offers opportunities for those passionate about space and science. Gaining experience through internships and developing technical skills can improve employability.

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 53% Full Time, and 47% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,230 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Staff Astronomer I

W. M. Keck Observatory

Kamuela, HI โ€ข On-site

$83K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Staff Astronomer I
Application Deadline: 14 August 2026
Department: Observing Support
Employment Type: Full Time
Location: W.M. Keck Headquarters
Reporting To: Jim Lyke
Compensation: $83,686 - $100,374 / year
Description
At W. M. Keck Observatory, we enable groundbreaking discoveries that expand humanity's understanding of the universe. We are seeking a Staff Astronomer I to join our Observing Support team and help deliver exceptional scientific capabilities to astronomers from around the world.
This position combines hands-on telescope and instrument support, scientific software and data analysis, instrumentation development, and independent research-creating a unique opportunity to contribute directly to cutting-edge astronomy while advancing your own scientific interests.
The Staff Astronomer I supports visiting astronomers before, during, and after their observing runs while collaborating with engineers and technical staff to maintain, improve, and develop Keck's world-class instrumentation. The successful candidate will conduct astronomy-related research and contribute to scientific publications while helping ensure the Observatory continues to deliver transformational science. Approximately 20% of work time is dedicated to professional research activities.
Our Mission & Values
At Keck Observatory, our work is driven by a shared commitment to advancing scientific discovery while honoring our responsibility to people, place, and community.
We are guided by core values rooted in:
  • Stewardship - We care for our people, facilities, environment, and community with integrity and long-term responsibility.
  • Service - We prioritize collective impact, supporting one another, the global astronomy community, and our local Hawaiสปi community to achieve shared goals.
  • Collaboration & Inclusion - We work across disciplines and perspectives to solve complex challenges and advance discovery together.
  • Excellence & Safety - We deliver high-quality work while maintaining a strong commitment to operational excellence and safety in everything we do.

WHY CHOOSE W. M. KECK OBSERVTORY
  • Competitive starting salary ranging from $83,686 to $100,374 annually.
  • Generous benefits package, including four (4) weeks of annual paid vacation.
  • A robust 8% 403(b) employer contribution (with a 4% employee contribution)
  • Dependent Tuition Assistance.
  • Comprehensive, fully-paid employee health insurance.
  • Join a dedicated team working on the frontiers of astronomy.

Key Responsibilities
Support of Visiting Astronomers (Observers)
  • Instruct observers in the use of WMKO's instruments and telescopes
  • Provide pre- and post-observing inquiries and support (both onsite and at remote mainland sites).
  • Offer afternoon and night-time support for observers during their runs.

Instrumentation Maintenance and Development
  • Maintain, calibrate, and develop scientific instruments and related software.
  • Provide night-time engineering support.
  • Collaborate with engineers and technicians to maintain, repair, and improve instruments.

Instrument Scientist (when assigned) Responsibilities
  • Lead the care of that instrument or capability.
  • Take primary responsibility for the instrument, ensuring its proper function and performance.

Contributions to New Instrumentation and Upgrades
  • Participate in the development of new instruments or capabilities, including adaptive optics.
  • Contribute to major upgrades of existing instruments

Data Reduction Support
  • Contribute to the development, maintenance, and support of data reduction packages.

Research
  • Conduct scientific research related to field of expertise or interest with the expectation that the research will lead to published technical and peer-reviewed papers. Collaboration with colleagues is encouraged.
  • This position allocates 20% of work time specifically for research activities.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
Education
  • Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) or equivalent degree in astronomy, physics, or engineering; relevant professional experience may be substituted for a degree.

Experience
  • Interest and/or experience with scientific instrumentation
  • With astronomical observing and/or working at an astronomical observatory.

Skills
  • Ability to prioritize tasks, plan activities, and meet deadlines
  • Microsoft Office Proficiency.
  • Ability to effectively deliver impactful presentations to a technical and non-technical audience.

Technical Competencies
  • Ability to interpret complex data, solve problems, and make predictions based on empirical evidence.
  • Proficiency in programming languages for data analysis and simulations (e.g., Python, C/C++, IDL, R, Bash/Shell scripting).
  • Ability to create or use data processing pipelines to handle large volumes of data, including calibration, cleaning, and extraction of useful information.
  • Knowledge of cloud computing and data storage solutions to manage large datasets.
  • Ability to write scientific papers and produce technical documentation.

Apply