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Astronomy Major Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Astronomy Major information

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$37

How much do astronomy major jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 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 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:
Infographic showing various Astronomy Major job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,230 per year, or $26.1 per hour.
Astronomy Instructor, Part-Time Faculty

Astronomy Instructor, Part-Time Faculty

Copper Mountain Community College (CA)

Joshua Tree, CA โ€ข On-site

$58.05 - $78.08/hr

Part-time

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Position Description Under administrative leadership, it is the responsibility of the part-time instructor to conduct assigned classes and support advancement of the values represented by the Vision Statement and Mission Statement of the District. **Be sure to upload the required attachments in order for your application to be considered** Duties and Responsibilities Meet classes and laboratories on days and times assigned per the published class schedule. Publish in syllabus and maintain office hours; advise students enrolled in the instructor's classes in such matters as: Course content, scope and meaning, grading criteria; Major course requirements for degrees or certificates; Strategies to assist students in achieving published SLOs; Collateral or enrichment reading or experience opportunities for further understanding of the course or subject field; Career opportunities related to the subject field.

Develop and implement instruction for each class or laboratory period that fulfills all course requirements contained in the official Course Outline of Record (COR) and is consistent with the academic and vocational program standards and objectives. Develop a written syllabus based on the Academic Senate's standards and submit as per District policy. Periodically assess and advise students of their progress toward meeting course objectives.

Respect student rights as specified in District policy and applicable federal and state laws or regulations. In the absence of full-time faculty in the discipline, submit textbook adoption forms for textbooks and instructional materials in a timely manner, according to the approved procedure. When appropriate refer students to tutoring and related student services.

Supervise students in off-campus activities when participation is expected as part of a course requirement. Assign and submit grades by deadline in the manner provided by District policy and administrative procedure and prescribed by the Education Code and Title 5 regulations for the State of California. Keep official records, collect data, and submit records by deadlines as required by District policy and administrative procedures.

Prepare and submit necessary forms in accordance with college procedures. Additional Responsibilities: Respond to administration with regard to the evaluation of student petitions and grievances. Abide by District regulations concerning the proper use, care, and security of equipment.

Advise management of unsafe conditions, potential hazards or accidents in a timely manner. Demonstrate an awareness of and sensitivity to the diverse academic, socioeconomic, cultural, disability and ethnic backgrounds of community college students. Qualifications Standards are established in accordance with the Minimum Qualifications for Faculty and Administrators in California Community Colleges as adopted by the California Community Colleges Board of Governors for the discipline.

Minimum Qualifications: Master's in physics, astronomy or astrophysics OR Bachelor's in physics or astronomy AND Master's in engineering, mathematics, meteorology or geophysics OR the equivalent Required Attachments: A current and complete resume or CV highlighting educational, professional, and applicable experiences. College transcripts for Master's and Bachelor's degrees from an accredited college or university (student copies are acceptable for application purposes but official transcripts will be required if hired.) A cover letter Hourly rate is based on degree: PhD/EdD: $78.08/hour - Lecture. $62.90/hour - Lab

MA/MS: $75.00/hour - Lecture. $60.42/hour - Lab. BA/BS: $72.07/hour - Lecture

$58.05/hour - Lab. Tentative Timeline: Applications will be reviewed as they are received and will be accepted until the job posting is removed. Applications will be reviewed in the order in which they are received

Based on the number of applications received, this posting may close without notice. *All dates are subject to change based on availability Equal Opportunity Statement Copper Mountain College is committed to Equal Employment Opportunity for all persons and to provide educational and employment opportunities free from discrimination on the basis of ethnic group identification, gender identification, national origin, religion, age, veteran status, sex, race, color, ancestry, sexual orientation, or physical or mental disabilities, and other physical or verbal conduct. Inquiries regarding compliance and/or grievance procedures may be directed to the School District's Title IX Officer and/or Section 504/ADA Coordinator.