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Astronomy Software Engineer Jobs in Renton, WA (NOW HIRING)

Astronomer

Data Platform Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$200K - $250K/yr

Astronomer empowers data teams to bring mission-critical software, analytics, and AI to life and is ... As a Data Platform Engineer at Astronomer, you'll be a key partner to our clients, guiding them in ...

All JobsAstronomy Software Engineer JobsAstronomy Software Engineer Jobs in Renton, WA

Astronomy Software Engineer information

See Renton, WA salary details

$75.4K

$145.9K

$252K

How much do astronomy software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for astronomy software engineer in Renton, WA is $145,865.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $122,600.00 and $158,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an astronomy software engineer?

An Astronomy Software Engineer develops and maintains software used in astronomical research, telescope operations, and data analysis. They work with astronomers to design algorithms, process large datasets, and optimize telescope control systems. Common tasks include developing simulation tools, automating data pipelines, and improving imaging software. This role requires expertise in programming, scientific computing, and an understanding of astrophysical concepts.

What are the day-to-day responsibilities of an astronomy software engineer?

An Astronomy Software Engineer typically spends their day designing, developing, and debugging software to analyze astronomical data or control telescopes and instruments. They may collaborate with astrophysicists, data scientists, and other engineers to implement algorithms, integrate new features, or troubleshoot issues in existing systems. Reviewing scientific requirements, writing technical documentation, and supporting data pipelines or archives are also common tasks. This role requires balancing independent problem-solving with teamwork to ensure software meets rigorous scientific and operational standards.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an astronomy software engineer?

To succeed as an Astronomy Software Engineer, a solid background in computer science, mathematics, and astronomy—typically with a relevant degree—is essential. Experience with programming languages like Python, C++, or Java, familiarity with astronomical data formats (such as FITS), and use of tools like MATLAB or IRAF are often required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills are valuable soft skills in this field. These abilities are crucial for accurately developing, maintaining, and optimizing software that supports advanced research and scientific discoveries in astronomy.

What are the most commonly searched types of Astronomy Software Engineer jobs in Renton, WA?

The most popular types of Astronomy Software Engineer jobs in Renton, WA are:

Astronomy Software Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Astronomy Software Engineer job openings in Renton, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $145,865 per year, or $70.1 per hour.

Data Platform Engineer

Seattle, WA • On-site

Astronomer
Software Development • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Astronomerexternal

$200K - $250K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Astronomer empowers data teams to bring mission-critical software, analytics, and AI to life and is the company behind Astro, the industry-leading unified DataOps platform powered by Apache Airflow®. Astro accelerates building reliable data products that unlock insights, unleash AI value, and powers data-driven applications. Trusted by more than 800 of the world's leading enterprises, Astronomer lets businesses do more with their data. To learn more, visit www.astronomer.io.
About this role:
As a Data Platform Engineer at Astronomer, you'll be a key partner to our clients, guiding them in deploying powerful data workflows to accelerate their business outcomes. You'll have the chance to work with cutting-edge technology, help customers solve complex data challenges, and influence our product's evolution through client feedback. This role is ideal for someone who wants to make a visible impact while growing into an expert in workflow orchestration and Apache Airflow.
What you get do:
  • Solve Real-World Problems: Design and implement proof-of-concept solutions that help customers tackle real data challenges, from concept to production.
  • Be a Trusted Advisor: Conduct demos and provide technical guidance to engineering teams, showing them how our platform can transform their workflows.
  • Drive Community Impact: Contribute to the Apache Airflow community by creating technical content and best practices, positioning Astronomer as a thought leader in workflow orchestration.
  • Influence Product Direction: Act as a liaison by gathering field insights and providing critical feedback to the Product team to shape the future of our platform.
  • Develop and Grow: Become an expert in Airflow, workflow orchestration, and the data engineering landscape as you collaborate across departments and work on impactful projects.

What you bring to the role:
  • Data Engineering Know-How: Familiarity with core data engineering concepts including orchestration, ELT, Git, and Role-Based Access Control (RBAC), with hands-on experience or working knowledge of Apache Airflow in a customer environment.
  • Experience and Expertise: 2+ years in a Sales Engineering, Solutions Engineering, Consulting or similar role within the data space, ideally with experience in modern data tools like Snowflake, Databricks, Fivetran, or Tableau.
  • Effective Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills to simplify complex technical concepts for diverse audiences.
  • Curiosity and Customer Empathy: A genuine desire to understand customer needs, patience, and empathy to support them through challenges.
  • Drive to Innovate: Eagerness to learn and experiment with new technical concepts, tools, and approaches to stay ahead in the data industry.

Bonus points if you have:
  • Hands-on Python scripting skills for data pipeline support.
  • Experience with open-source data tools.
  • Background in designing data workflows in a production environment.
  • Customer-facing experience in a technical or consultative role.
  • Experience working with Command Line Interfaces (CLI).

The estimated total compensation for this role ranges from $200,000 - $250,000, along with an equity component. This range is merely an estimate, and the width of the range reflects willingness to consider candidates with broad prior seniority. Actual compensation may deviate from this range based on skills, experience, and qualifications.
#LI-Remote
At Astronomer, we value diversity. We are an equal opportunity employer: we do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.

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