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Entry Level Astronomy Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Astronomy information

See salary details

$12

$20

$29

How much do entry level astronomy jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level astronomy in the United States is $20.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $22.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of projects or tasks do entry level astronomy professionals typically work on?

Entry level astronomy professionals often assist with data collection and analysis, operate telescopes or other observational equipment, and support ongoing research studies under the supervision of senior astronomers. Day-to-day tasks might include calibrating instruments, processing astronomical images, writing code to analyze data sets, or conducting literature reviews as part of research projects. Collaboration is frequent, with team-based problem solving and regular interactions with researchers, engineers, and graduate students. Gaining experience with these foundational tasks offers valuable exposure to advanced astronomical research techniques and prepares you for further specialization or academic advancement in the field.

What is an Entry Level Astronomy job?

An entry-level astronomy job typically involves assisting in research, data analysis, telescope operations, or educational outreach. These roles are often found at universities, research institutions, observatories, or planetariums. Common job titles include research assistant, telescope operator, or science communicator. A bachelor's degree in astronomy, physics, or a related field is usually required, along with skills in programming and data analysis.

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

To thrive in an entry level astronomy role, you should have a solid background in physics, mathematics, and astronomy—typically supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with data analysis software (such as Python, MATLAB, or IRAF), exposure to telescope operations, and sometimes participation in observatory or research internships are valuable technical assets. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and clear communication skills help you effectively interpret data and work within a team. These combined abilities are crucial for accurately supporting research projects and contributing to collaborative scientific endeavors.

More about Entry Level Astronomy jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Astronomy jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Astronomy job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Astronomy jobs? The most popular types of Astronomy jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Astronomy jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Astronomy jobs include:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Astronomy job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 98% Full Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 58% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 41% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,262 per year, or $20.3 per hour.

Administrative/Clerical Temporary Pool

Foothill De Anza

Los Altos Hills, CA

$18.25 - $23.25/hr

Other

Posted 5 days ago


Job description


Administrative/Clerical Temporary Pool
Foothill-De Anza Community College District
Salary: See Position Description
Job Type: Temporary Employee Assignment (TEA)
Job Number: T002
Location: District, CA
Department: Finance & Administrative Services
Closing:
Bargaining Unit: N/A
Description
This is a pool of applicants for any Administrative/Clerical temporary positions that may become available within the Foothill - De Anza Community College District. Applications submitted to this temporary pool will be screened by HR for minimum qualifications. After your application has been screened you will receive an e-mail notification regarding your status.
A copy of TEA salary schedule can be located here -
https://hr.fhda.edu/_top.html
Possible positions that may fall under this Administrative/Clerical temporary pool are:
  • Office Assistant I - III
  • Planetarium Assistant
  • Program Assistant I - III
The job descriptions are for each job title are:
  • Office Assistant I- Perform a variety of routine, entry-level, clerical office functions in support of day-to-day clerical/office or department work units. Includes typing, filing, data entry and record keeping, operating office equipment, answering phones and/or operating computers. Receive, sort, and route mail. Stuff, seal and stamp envelopes. Sort, staple, collage and hand deliver materials. This job requires accuracy and attention to detail.
  • Office Assistant II- Perform a variety of general, mid-level clerical/office and operational functions in support of day-to-day clerical/office or department work units. Requires adherence to daily timelines, accurate data entry and record keeping, attention to detail as well as skill to respond effectively and tactfully to inquiries from both employees and the general public.
  • Office Assistant III- Perform a wide variety of responsible, higher-level clerical/office and operation functions in support of day-to-day clerical/office or department work units. Positions work on special projects and coordinate administrative activities. Collect and analyze data for records and reports. May maintain a variety of office database and spreadsheet applications. May work on multiple projects.
  • Planetarium Assistant- For Planetarium Saturday Evening Astronomy shows and Laser Light shows: Serve as cashier by operating register and credit card machine for show ticket sales and other cash register transactions. Serve as gift shop counter and customer service attendant and answer high volume of questions via telephone and in person. Make sure gift shop, lobby, auditorium and restroom areas are kept neat in appearance. Serve as door usher by collecting admission tickets and directing customers into auditorium. Assist with crowd control before and after shows and walk outside Planetarium building to help direct customers. Assist presenter while show is in progress as needed and by answering astronomy and facility related questions either before or after show.
  • Program Assistant I- Work under the direction of college administration. Assist in the implementation of summer programs or activities. Assist in interviewing and training summer hires (i.e. teachers, coaches, etc.). Perform duties with established procedures and guidelines to include a low-level of coordination. Assist in preparing routine records and program reports.
  • Program Assistant II- Work under the direction of college administration. Assist in the implementation of summer programs or activities. Assist in interviewing and hiring summer hires (i.e. teachers, coaches, etc.). Schedule and train summer hires. Perform duties with established procedures and guidelines to include a mid-level of coordination. Monitor budgets, prepare routine records and program reports.
  • Program Assistant III- Work under the direction of college administration. Responsible for developing and implementing summer programs or activities. Interview, hire, schedule and train summer hires (i.e. teachers, coaches, etc.). Perform duties with established procedures and guidelines to include a high-level of coordination, budget development, and program evaluation. Prepare reports, studies, and analysis of program as required.

To apply, please visit https://www.schooljobs.com/careers/fhda/jobs/5305758/administrative-clerical-temporary-pool
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