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$42.5K

$80.1K

$135K

How much do astronomy professor jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for astronomy professor in the United States is $80,057.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,000.00 and $91,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Astronomy Professor position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Astronomy Professor, you need an advanced degree (typically a Ph.D.) in astronomy, astrophysics, or a related field, and a strong record of research and teaching experience. Familiarity with specialized software such as IRAF, Python, and astronomical data analysis tools, as well as experience using telescopes and observatories, is often required. Exceptional communication, mentoring, and organizational skills help foster student engagement and contribute to collaborative research projects. These capabilities are essential for inspiring students, advancing scientific knowledge, and succeeding within academic institutions.

What does an Astronomy Professor do?

An Astronomy Professor teaches courses on topics such as planetary science, astrophysics, and cosmology at a college or university. They also conduct research, publish scientific papers, and mentor students in their academic and research pursuits. Many Astronomy Professors secure funding for their studies, use observatories to collect data, and collaborate with other scientists. Their role often includes public outreach and presentations to share astronomical discoveries.

What do astronomy professors do?

Astronomy professors teach university students about celestial objects, astrophysics, and space science. They conduct research, publish findings, and often use telescopes and laboratory equipment. Their work involves lectures, student mentorship, and staying current with scientific advancements.

What does a typical workweek look like for an Astronomy Professor?

A typical week for an Astronomy Professor includes preparing and delivering lectures, leading laboratory sessions, supervising student research, and conducting their own research projects. Professors also spend time writing grant proposals, publishing research findings, attending conferences, and serving on academic committees. Collaboration is common, both with colleagues in other scientific disciplines and through partnerships with observatories or research institutions. Balancing teaching responsibilities with ongoing research and departmental service makes for a dynamic and intellectually stimulating work environment.

How much do astronomy professors make?

Astronomy professors typically earn between $70,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, education level, and the institution. Salaries can vary based on research funding, geographic location, and whether they hold tenure or adjunct positions.

Do you need a PhD to be an astronomy professor?

Yes, most astronomy professors hold a PhD in astronomy, astrophysics, or a related field, as it is typically a requirement for faculty positions at universities. Advanced research skills, a strong publication record, and teaching experience are also important for securing such roles.

How much does a PhD in astronomy make?

Astronomy professors with a PhD typically earn between $60,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, institution, and location. Salaries can increase with tenure, research funding, and additional responsibilities such as department leadership or research grants.
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Astronomy Professor jobs near you
Adjunct Professor of Astronomy

Adjunct Professor of Astronomy

Oklahoma City Community College

Oklahoma City, OK • On-site

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Provide quality instruction in assigned astronomy courses with clear objectives and relevant class activities.

  • Present learning materials effectively and understandably and maintain fair grading practices.

  • Respond to students in a timely manner and foster a positive classroom atmosphere.

Job description

Position Information
Position Information (Default Section)
Posting Number
Adjunct_0401926
Classification Title
Adjunct Professor
Working Title
Adjunct Professor of Astronomy
Datatel Position ID
MEPS6ADJASTR1A
Annual Hours
As needed or assigned depending on section assignment.
Placement Range
$740 per Credit Hour
Position Type
Adjunct Faculty
Job Category
General Description
An adjunct faculty member at Oklahoma City Community College has the primary responsibility of instruction. Secondary responsibilities include supporting the integrity of curricula, encouraging student success, and promoting the mission of the division to which the adjunct faculty member belongs as well as the College as a whole.
What position does this position report to?
Physical Science Department Chair
What position(s) reports to this position?
None
Minimum Education/Experience
Master's degree with at least 18 graduate hours in astronomy, astrophysics, physics or related fields.
Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Demonstrated positive human relations and communication skills
Basic computer skills, proficient in the use of Microsoft Office or similar software
Flexible teaching style to accommodate individual learning styles
Committed to helping students achieve their goals to be successful and attain a college education
Knowledge of or willingness to learn computer programs used in the department and on campus (such as MineOnline and Moodle)
Organization and attention to detail
Support and willingness to teach in a competency-based instructional system
Ability to work independently and coordinate work with colleagues and peers
Ability to work well as a team member in an instructional unit
Ability to communicate and articulate concepts in an organized manner both verbally and in writing
Ability to read and understand content in order to assist students when they are having difficulty interpreting concepts
Ability to interact in an effective and encouraging manner with students individually and in groups
Ability to be available for office hours and provide means of communication with supervisor(s) and/or the department or division office
Must be punctual
Must be reliable
Physical Demands/Working Conditions
1. GENERAL PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
Light work: The person in this position may occasionally exert up to 20 pounds of force to move objects.
2. PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES:
This position requires the person to frequently move about the classroom or lab to assist students and perform the essential functions of the position.
This position requires the person to frequently communicate with students, faculty, and staff to perform the essential functions of the position. Must be able to exchange accurate information in various situations.
This position frequently requires the person to operate a computer, other office equipment and mobile devices to prepare instructional documents, answer email correspondence, and complete other activities necessary to perform the essential functions of the position.
3. VISUAL ACUITY:
This position requires the person to judge, observe and assess the accuracy, neatness, thoroughness of work assigned or to make general observations.
4. WORKING CONDITIONS
This position's essential functions are performed in an indoor classroom, lab or office setting.
Preferred Qualifications
None
Required Training
Work Hours
Day, evening, or weekend as well as campus and/or online as required by section assignment.
Department
Division of Science, Engineering, and Mathematics
Job Open Date
09/27/2023
Job Close Date
Open Until Filled
No
HR Contact
Special Instructions to Applicants
Applicants are to thoroughly complete the online application and attach the following required documents: cover letter, resume and transcript conferring a minimum of a master's degree and confirming successful completion of at least 18 graduate hours in astronomy, astrophysics, physics or related fields.
Applicants who do not attach the required documents will not be considered for the position.
For application assistance or questions, please contact Human Resources at (405) 682-7542, Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM.
Job Duties
Job Duties (Position Specific)
(The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.)
Job Duties (Duties Assignment Statement)
An adjunct faculty member is primarily responsible for supporting student learning by providing quality instruction in courses that the adjunct faculty member and the dean/director agree will be taught. Quality instruction includes clear course objectives, prepared and relevant class activities, effective and understandable presentations of learning materials, fair and understandable grading practices (credit classes only), timely responses to students, and a positive atmosphere in the classroom.
In addition to the primary responsibility for supporting student learning, an adjunct faculty member is expected to:
Participate in the assessment of student learning outcomes for the program and/or department.
Respond in a timely fashion to information requests from program, division, and College administrators.
Attend department, division, and College meetings as required.
Acquire new knowledge and skills as appropriate for the academic discipline.
Maintain license or professional certification specific to program requirements.
Satisfy objectives for mutually agreed upon special assignments.
Support the College's vision, mission, goals, and priorities.
Course(s) this position may teach include:
ASTR 1501 GENERAL ASTRONOMY LABORATORY
ASTR 1504 GENERAL ASTRONOMY
ASTR 1514 GENERAL ASTRONOMY WITH LAB
PHYS 1013 PHYSICAL SCIENCE
PHYS 1014 PHYSICAL SCIENCE
PHYS 1504 GENERAL ASTRONOMY
PHYS 1514 GENERAL ASTRONOMY WITH LAB
Job Duties (Safety / Policy & Procedures)
Abide by the policies and procedures published in the Board of Regents Policies and College Policies & Procedures.
Contribute to a safe educational & working environment.
Adhere to established safety and health procedures and practices for the purpose of providing injury and illness prevention for self and others.
Complete quarterly health and safety training pursuant to OCCC's established safety and health procedures and practices.
Participate in all applicable OCCC emergency, evacuation, shelter in place drills, and be prepared to take action and assist others in taking appropriate action should a health or safety emergency occur.

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