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Astronomy Major Jobs (NOW HIRING)

W. M. Keck Observatory

Staff Astronomer I

Kamuela, HI · 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

Field Engineer, SWAT

New York, NY · On-site

$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

Field Engineer, SWAT

Manhattan, NY · On-site

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

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 ...

Astronomer

$125K - $130K/yr

Astronomer empowers data teams to bring mission-critical software, analytics, and AI to life and is ... Experience working with a distributed system with any major cloud provider (AWS, GCP, Azure)

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How much do astronomy major jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 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:
What states have the most Astronomy Major jobs? States with the most job openings for Astronomy Major jobs include:
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.
Adjunct Astronomy Faculty (Pool)

Adjunct Astronomy Faculty (Pool)

The Tennessee Board of Regents

Tullahoma, TN • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

MOTLOW STATE COMMUNITY COLLEGE
is accepting applications for the following position:
Adjunct Astronomy Faculty (Pool)
Position Summary: Pool Position
Campus: Any
Position number: BA9970
Salary: $500-$700 per credit hour
Motlow State is located in the beautiful rolling hills of middle Tennessee and has four campuses that serve students from eleven counties. Motlow positions are contingent upon funding availability and budget approval.
General Function:
Provide high-quality, effective instruction in accordance with the catalog description and approved course syllabus for assigned courses. Facilitate student learning and evaluate student performance using each course's standards and learning objectives as a guide. Provide appropriate academic support and guidance to students regarding course content and related academic or career goals.
Minimum Qualifications:
Master's degree in discipline or a qualifying field earned from a regionally accredited institution by the application date or a Master's degree in any field with a minimum of 18 graduate semester hours in discipline or a qualifying field earned from a regionally accredited college or university by the application date.
Qualifying Fields:
Astronomy
Physics
Physical Science
Space Studies
Preferred Qualifications:
Doctoral degree in discipline or a qualifying field earned from a regionally accredited institution and three years of Community College teaching experience. Ability to teach in an additional Motlow State teaching field.
Major Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Teach courses as assigned in accordance with the catalog description and the approved course syllabus; Teach dual enrollment classes at area high schools as assigned; Travel to multiple campuses as assigned
  • Collaborate collegially with faculty, department lead/program director, and academic leadership about curricular and programmatic issues and needs
  • Collaborate collegially with faculty, administration and staff to support the students, strategic plan, goals and business operations of the college; Work collegially as part of both discipline-specific and multidisciplinary teams
  • Stay current with developments in the teaching discipline, including relevant scholarship, professional practices, and emerging instructional approaches, and incorporate appropriate updates into course instruction to support effective student learning.
  • Support curricular and co-curricular activities within the college
  • Teach up to 12 credit hours per semester as assigned
  • Maintain availability to communicate with and meet students regarding coursework and participate in occasional meetings or instructional activities as requested by the department
  • Respond promptly to the Dean's requests
  • Submit all requested paperwork timely and completely
  • Perform all duties in accordance with both TBR and MSCC policies
  • Other duties as assigned

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
  • Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to effectively communicate with a wide range of individuals and constituencies.
  • Strong computer skills, to include college database (Banner) management, word processing, creating spreadsheets, e-mail, and the internet
  • Knowledge of confidentiality statutes and policies as they apply to FERPA
  • Ability to effectively communicate, both in writing and verbally, with students, fellow employees, college administrators, and other stakeholders.

To ensure consideration, interested applicants must submit an application, transcripts and resume online with application submission.
Human Resources Office, Dept. 200
Motlow State Community College
Telephone (931) 393-1544, TDD (931 393-1621)
E-mail: jobs@mscc.edu
Website: www.mscc.edu
Motlow College is an EEO/Title VI/Title VII/Title IX/Sections 504/ADA Employer
Motlow State Community College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, ethnicity or national origin, sex, disability, age, status as a protected veteran or any other class protected by Federal or State laws and regulations and by Tennessee Board of Regents policies with respect to employment, programs, and activities.

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