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How much do computational astrophysics jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for computational astrophysics in the United States is $16.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.22 and $17.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a computational astrophysicist do?

A computational astrophysicist uses computer simulations, data analysis, and modeling to study astronomical phenomena such as star formation, galaxy evolution, and cosmology. They often work with programming languages like Python or C++, utilize high-performance computing resources, and collaborate with observational and theoretical scientists to interpret data and develop models.

What types of projects or research topics do computational astrophysicists commonly work on?

Computational astrophysicists are often involved in simulating galaxy formation, modeling the behavior of black holes, analyzing large-scale cosmic structures, and interpreting data from telescopes or space missions. These projects typically require developing and running complex algorithms to model physical processes that are not easily studied through observation alone. Day-to-day responsibilities may include writing code, debugging simulations, analyzing large datasets, and collaborating closely with observational astronomers and theoretical physicists. Working in this field offers exposure to cutting-edge research and opportunities to contribute to significant scientific discoveries.

What is a NASA astrophysicist's salary?

NASA astrophysicists are federal employees, and their salaries are determined by the General Schedule (GS) pay scale. Typically, they earn between GS-11 and GS-15 levels, with salaries ranging from approximately $55,000 to over $150,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Advanced degrees and specialized skills in computational methods can influence salary levels within this range.

What is a Computational Astrophysics job?

A Computational Astrophysics job involves using numerical simulations, algorithms, and data analysis techniques to study astrophysical phenomena. Scientists in this field develop and run complex computer models to understand the behavior of celestial objects, such as galaxies, stars, and black holes. They also analyze large datasets from telescopes and space missions to test theoretical predictions. The job requires expertise in physics, mathematics, and programming, often using languages like Python, C++, or Fortran. Computational astrophysicists work in academia, research institutions, and space agencies, contributing to our understanding of the universe.

How much do computational astrophysicists make?

Computational astrophysicists typically earn between $70,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while senior roles or those in research institutions and industry can offer higher salaries, often supplemented with benefits and research funding.

What can I do with a computational physics degree?

A computational astrophysics degree prepares individuals for roles such as research scientist, data analyst, or simulation specialist in academia, government agencies, or private industry. Graduates often work with programming languages like Python or C++, utilize high-performance computing, and analyze large datasets to study celestial phenomena or develop models of the universe.

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

To thrive in computational astrophysics, a deep understanding of physics, mathematics, and computer science is essential, typically supported by an advanced degree in astrophysics or a related field. Proficiency with programming languages such as Python, C++, and MATLAB, as well as experience using high-performance computing clusters and scientific data analysis tools, is highly valuable. Critical thinking, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are key soft skills for collaborating within cross-disciplinary teams and presenting complex results. These skills are vital for effectively modeling, simulating, and interpreting astrophysical phenomena in a fast-evolving research environment.

More about Computational Astrophysics jobs
What cities are hiring for Computational Astrophysics jobs? Cities with the most Computational Astrophysics job openings:
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Computational Astrophysics jobs near you
Infographic showing various Computational Astrophysics job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 46% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 53% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,865 per year, or $16.8 per hour.

Joint CUNY - Center for Computational Astrophysics Visiting Scholar

Flatiron Institute

NY • On-site

$70K/yr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Description
The Center for Computational Astrophysics (CCA) is advertising for a Visiting Scholar for a 3-year joint position with the CUNY Graduate Center. The position would require 50% of their time at Flatiron Institute in New York City and 50% their time at the CUNY Graduate Center in New York City. After the 3-year term, the Visiting Scholar would be expected to work full-time as a faculty at the CUNY Graduate Center, as described in a companion advertisement from CUNY. Applications to both positions are required, and it is acceptable to submit identical applications to both. However, applicants are welcome to comment on specific synergies with CCA in their cover letter for the Flatiron application.
The CCA is a dynamic, collaborative, flexible research organization with a mission to advance computational methods, tools, and frameworks that allow scientists to interpret large astronomical datasets and to understand complex, multi-scale physics in astrophysical systems. Current research groups at the CCA include: Astronomical Data, Stars & Plasma Astrophysics, Galaxy Formation, Gravitational Wave Astronomy, Cosmology, Machine Learning & Astrophysics, Exoplanets & Planet Formation, Astronomical Software, and Nearby Universe & Milky Way. There are also multiple cross-group collaborations and projects that cross and/or extend beyond these boundaries. Please see https://www.simonsfoundation.org/flatiron/center-for-computational-astrophysics/ for a full description of research activities at the CCA. CCA scientists are deeply involved in community-building within their research field, the CCA, the Flatiron Institute, and the larger NYC community. Within Flatiron, the CCA benefits from close ties with the Center for Computational Mathematics and superb computational resources and support from the Scientific Computing Core.
As a Visiting Scholar, the successful applicant will be expected to:
  • Lead a vigorous research program;
  • Collaborate with and mentor the CCA's postdoctoral Flatiron Research Fellows and students from the CUNY Masters in Astrophysics;
  • Foster interactions with the broader community (in NYC and beyond) through organizing meetings and workshops;
  • Build intellectual connections across CCA and the Flatiron Institute and beyond;
  • Capitalize on the unique opportunities available at the CCA to further the field of computational astrophysics and/or data analysis, including open source projects and data releases.
  • For reference, the CCA's Mission Statement reads:
  • Solve important, hard problems in computational astrophysics
  • Focus on problems that we at Flatiron are uniquely positioned to solve
  • Invent and propagate better data-analysis practices, analytical methods, and computational methods for the global astrophysics community, with a focus on rigor
  • Develop, maintain, and contribute to open-source software packages, open data, and their communities
  • Create and support a community of astrophysics doers, learners, and mentors in New York City and beyond
  • Train and launch diverse early-career researchers in astrophysics with unique capabilities in computation methods.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/RESPONSIBILITIES
The successful candidate will be responsible for:
  • Leading a research program with broad and significant impact
  • Mentoring independent postdoctoral fellows and CUNY Masters in Astrophysics candidates
  • Contributing to the scientific strategy, management, and organization of the CCA
  • Fostering scientific communities within CCA, Flatiron, NYC, and beyond.

Qualifications
ducation: Ph.D. degree in a related field
A preferred candidate should have:
  • 1 or more years of postgraduate research experience in astrophysics, with research interests and/or skills that overlap or enhance CCA-relevant interests, broadly defined.
  • Sufficient breadth and flexibility to collaborate broadly within the CCA and especially with its independent postdoctoral fellows.
  • Evidence for scientific impact, assessed in appropriate ways for stage of career and methodology.
  • Demonstrated ability and interest in supervising, mentoring, and collaborating with junior scientists from a variety of backgrounds.
  • Alignment with multiple aspects of the CCA mission statement.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS
The annual compensation range for this 0.5 Full time equivalent position is $70,000 in addition to the CUNY Graduate Center faculty salary.
Application Instructions
REQUIRED APPLICATION MATERIALS
  • CV
  • Cover letter
  • Research statement outlining both past research accomplishments and a vision for scientific research
  • Teaching and mentorship philosophy statement for graduate education
  • Contact information for three (3) professional references (name, title, institution, and email address)

Applicants to this position must submit applications both to CUNY and to CCA. The same application can be submitted for the faculty position at the Graduate Center and for the Visiting Scholar position at CCA. However, applicants are welcome to comment on specific synergies with CCA in their cover letter for the Flatiron application.
THE SIMONS FOUNDATION'S DIVERSITY COMMITMENT
Many of the greatest ideas and discoveries come from a diverse mix of minds, backgrounds and experiences, and we are committed to cultivating an inclusive work environment. The Simons Foundation provides equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic disposition, neurodiversity, disability, veteran status, or any other protected category under federal, state and local law.

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