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Computer Science Astronomy Jobs in Pennsylvania (NOW HIRING)

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$13.9K

$58.9K

$122.8K

How much do computer science astronomy jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for computer science astronomy in Pennsylvania is $58,870.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35,540.00 and $78,279.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in computer science astronomy, and why are they important?

To thrive in Computer Science Astronomy, you need a strong foundation in both computer science principles (including programming, algorithms, and data analysis) and a solid understanding of astronomical concepts, often supported by at least a bachelor's or advanced degree in a related field. Proficiency in programming languages such as Python or C++, experience with data visualization tools, and familiarity with astronomical data processing software like IRAF or Astropy are advantageous. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work collaboratively in interdisciplinary teams help set standout candidates apart. These skills and qualities are crucial for efficiently analyzing vast astronomical datasets, developing research algorithms, and advancing discoveries in the field.

How is computer science used in astronomy?

Computer science in astronomy involves developing algorithms, data processing techniques, and software to analyze large datasets from telescopes and simulations. Astronomers use programming languages like Python and specialized tools to model celestial phenomena, process images, and manage data storage, enabling more efficient and accurate research.

What types of projects do computer science astronomy professionals typically work on?

Professionals in Computer Science Astronomy often engage in projects such as developing software to process telescope data, designing algorithms for detecting celestial events, or creating simulations of astronomical phenomena. Daily tasks might include coding, managing or analyzing large astronomical datasets, and collaborating with astronomers, physicists, and engineers to advance research goals. The work environment typically blends academic research settings, national labs, or observatories with strong teamwork and cross-disciplinary communication. Many roles also offer opportunities to contribute to large-scale collaborations and advance technological innovation within the field. As you progress, you may take on more complex projects or leadership responsibilities that shape future scientific discoveries.

What is a computer science astronomy?

A Computer Science Astronomy job involves using computational techniques to analyze astronomical data, create simulations, and develop software for space research. Professionals in this field work on tasks such as processing telescope images, modeling celestial phenomena, and improving data classification using machine learning. They may collaborate with astronomers, engineers, and data scientists to enhance our understanding of the universe. Careers can be found in research institutions, space agencies, and private space technology companies.

What are popular job titles related to Computer Science Astronomy jobs in Pennsylvania? For Computer Science Astronomy jobs in Pennsylvania, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Computer Science Astronomy jobs in Pennsylvania look for? The top searched job categories for Computer Science Astronomy jobs in Pennsylvania are:
Computer Science Astronomy jobs near you
Infographic showing various Computer Science Astronomy job openings in Pennsylvania as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 53% Full Time, 34% Part Time, and 13% Temporary. Highlights an 91% In-person, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,870 per year, or $28.3 per hour.

McWilliams Postdoctoral Fellow 2025

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA • On-site

$47K - $64K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago

Carnegie Mellon University rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

67th of 618 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Description
The Department of Physics at Carnegie Mellon University invites applications for the McWilliams Postdoctoral Fellowship. McWilliams Fellows are expected to carry out their own programs of original research, independently or in collaboration with Carnegie Mellon faculty, postdoctoral fellows, and students. We welcome applications from researchers working in any area of astrophysics and/or cosmology.
McWilliams Postdoctoral Fellows are part of CMU's McWilliams Center for Cosmology and Astrophysics (website http://www.cmu.edu/cosmology). The McWilliams Center synergizes research carried out in CMU's Departments of Physics, Computer Science, Machine Learning, and Statistics, and enjoys close relationships with the University of Pittsburgh's Department of Physics and Astronomy. Carnegie Mellon's physics faculty hold leadership roles in multiple large sky surveys and consortia, including DES, DESI, HSC, LISA, and Rubin LSST. CMU is also a co-host of LINCC Frameworks which is developing analysis software infrastructure to enable the use of Rubin LSST data. Theoretical and observational studies within the Center cover a wide range of astrophysical phenomena, including galaxy and structure formation, black holes and gravitational waves, stellar evolution, gravitational lensing, dynamical detection of dark matter (see list of center faculty here: https://www.cmu.edu/cosmology/people/index.html). The McWilliams Center benefits from the Vera computing cluster at the Pittsburgh Supercomputing Center, which provides high-performance computing resources on a variety of scales and works closely with our scientists.
Fellowship appointments are for 2 years, with renewal for a third year likely, contingent upon satisfactory progress. The position comes with a competitive salary, an annual research budget, health benefits, and relocation expenses.
Qualifications
Applicants should hold a Ph.D. in physics, astronomy, or an adjacent field by the time of appointment, which is anticipated to begin September 1, 2026.
Application Instructions
Applications should be uploaded to the Interfolio website and must include a curriculum vitae, publication list, a statement of research interests, and a cover letter. The cover letter should identify the applicant's scientific background and goals, explain any synergies that make CMU a good fit for the proposed work, and can include examples of the candidate's engagement within both academic and general public communities. There are no formal page limits, but the AAS Postdoctoral Guidelines should be seen as a target for length and detail.
In addition, candidates should arrange for three letters of recommendation to be uploaded (a prompt will be sent automatically to the applicant's references when their contact information is entered at the Interfolio site). For full consideration, all materials should be received by November 10, 2025.
For questions about the position, please contact Prof. Antonella Palmese (apalmese@andrew.cmu.edu).

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