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Entry Level Astronomy Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Astronomy information

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 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 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Astronomy jobs in California?

The most popular types of Astronomy jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Astronomy jobs in California?

For Entry Level Astronomy jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Astronomy jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Astronomy jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Astronomy jobs?

Cities in California with the most Entry Level Astronomy job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Astronomy job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

2026 Electromagnetics Effects Engineer

The Aerospace Corporation

El Segundo, CA

$90K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation's space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space- delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you'll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join us and take your place in space.

The Aerospace Corporation is hiring an Electromagnetics Effects Engineer for the Mission Payloads Division (MPD). Position will be full-time, 100% onsite at our office in El Segundo, CA.

At MPD, we are pioneers in remote sensing systems that guide our country's space enterprise. Our talented and dynamic people create and flourish in electronics, sensors, radar, artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced data network domains. We boldly advance technology through our research and development and then forward to demonstration and integration. With innovative laboratories and prototyping, MPD delivers groundbreaking results. We guide our Department of Defense, intelligence community, and civil clients to enhance national productivity and security and tackle the most critical missions. Bring your intelligence and creative spirit and join us at MPD!

Job Summary

The Electromagnetic Interference Test Section (EMITS) provides test-based solutions to high-impact challenges in the domain of launch vehicle and spacecraft electromagnetic and radiofrequency protection.

What You'll Be Doing

  • Provide scientific and engineering support in the areas of electromagnetic environmental effects, electromagnetic interference (EMI), electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) to the United States Space Force, National Reconnaissance Office, and civil space programs.

  • Assist with designing, building, and performing laboratory and field experiments to ensure spacecraft and launch vehicles are protected from harmful electromagnetic environments.

  • Gain hands-on experience performing electromagnetic and radiofrequency testing using signal generators, spectrum analyzers, network analyzers, oscilloscopes, and antennas; develop test methods and analyze results.

  • Occasionally travel to launch ranges, launch vehicle and satellite factories, and other sites to perform critical testing, troubleshooting, and mission assurance activities.

  • Support evaluation and improve spacecraft, launch vehicle, and infrastructure electromagnetic design and performance.

  • Participate in a team of industry experts that focus on conceptual designs, requirement development, proposal evaluation, design evaluation and verification, launch operations, and anomaly root-cause and corrective action.

  • Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned as needed.

What You Need to be Successful

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or STEM related program from anaccredited university, pursuing or conferring within 12 months.

  • Minimum GPA of 3.0

  • 0-1 year of industry work experience

  • Knowledge of applied electromagnetics, microwave engineering, radiofrequency engineering, antenna theory, and/or calculus-based electromagnetism

  • Project / academic experience with programming, data analysis, or computer control of test equipment

  • This position requires the ability to obtainand maintaina security clearance,which is issued by the US government. US citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance

  • Transcripts required

How You Can Stand Out

It would be impressive if you have one or more of these:

  • Advanced degree

  • Leadership ability

  • Programming experience using MATLAB, Python, LabVIEW, TILE!, or EMC32

  • Academic research relevant to applied electromagnetics, microwave engineering, or radiofrequency engineering

  • Working knowledge and understanding of one or more of the following:

    • Creating test procedures, test plans, and test reports

    • Measurements related to the areas of electronic warfare (EW), directed energy (DE), radiofrequency interference (RFI), signals intelligence (SIGINT), radar cross section (RCS), or radio astronomy

    • EMI/EMC test activities according to commercial or military standards

We offer a competitive compensation package where you'll be rewarded based on your performance and recognized for the value you bring to our business. The grade-based pay range for this job is listed below. Individual salaries within that range are determined through a wide variety of factors including but not limited to education, experience, knowledge and skills.

(Min - Max)

$90,000.00 - $100,000.00Pay Basis: Annual

Leadership Competencies

Our leadership philosophy is simple: every employee, regardless of level and role, can demonstrate leadership. At Aerospace, our commitment is our people. To cultivate our talent and ensure that we have a strong pipeline of future leaders, we want individuals who:

  • Operate Strategically
  • Lead Change
  • Engage with Impact
  • Foster Innovation
  • Deliver Results

Ways We Reward Our Employees

During your interview process, our team will provide details of our industry-leading benefits.

Benefits vary and are applicable based on Job Type. A few highlights include:

  • Comprehensive health care and wellness plans

  • Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation

  • Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options

  • 401(k) Plan - Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire

  • Flexible spending accounts

  • Variable pay program for exceptional contributions

  • Relocation assistance

  • Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career

  • Education assistance programs

  • An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect

We are all unique, from various backgrounds and all walks of life, yet one thing bonds all of us to each other-the belief that we can make a difference. This core belief empowers us to do our best work at The Aerospace Corporation.

Equal Opportunity Commitment

The Aerospace Corporation is an equalopportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, color,religion,geneticinformation, marital status, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, physical disability, medical condition, mental disability, or disability status and any other characteristic protected by state or federal law. If you're an individual with a disability or a disabled veteran who needs assistance using our online job search and application tools or need reasonable accommodation to complete the job application process, please contact us by phone at 310.336.5432 or by emailatpeoplemangmnt.mailbox@aero.org .You can also reviewKnow Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal.