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Full Time Astronomer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

POSITION SPECIFICS The Particle Astrophysics group at Penn State is seeking a postdoctoral ... BENEFITS Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to ...

Astrophysics is an expanding, dynamic and fast-paced company looking for individuals who want to grow with us and be a part of a meaningful security mission. We currently have an immediate full-time ...

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Full Time Astronomer information

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How much do full time astronomer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for full time astronomer in the United States is $17.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $18.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a full time astronomer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Full Time Astronomer, you need a strong background in physics, mathematics, and astronomy, typically supported by a PhD in astronomy or a related field. Proficiency in data analysis software (such as Python or MATLAB), telescope operation, and familiarity with astronomical databases are often required. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and strong written and verbal communication skills help astronomers interpret data and collaborate with research teams. These skills and qualities are crucial for producing accurate scientific research and advancing our understanding of the universe.

Is a full time astronomer a high paying job?

Full-time astronomers typically earn salaries that are comparable to other scientific research roles, with median annual wages around $100,000, depending on experience, education, and employer. While some positions at research institutions or universities offer competitive pay, astronomers in academia may earn less than those in private industry or government agencies. Advanced degrees and specialized skills can influence earning potential in this field.

What are some typical collaborative projects or teams that full time astronomers work with during their research?

Full-time astronomers often collaborate with a diverse range of professionals, including physicists, engineers, computer scientists, and data analysts, especially when working on large-scale observational or theoretical projects. Many astronomers are part of international research teams, contributing to projects like telescope operations, space missions, or data analysis consortia. Collaboration can involve regular meetings, shared data repositories, and joint publications, allowing astronomers to tackle complex research questions that require interdisciplinary expertise. This teamwork not only enhances scientific outcomes but also provides valuable networking and professional development opportunities.

What does a full time astronomer do?

A full time astronomer studies celestial objects such as stars, planets, and galaxies to better understand the universe. Their work often involves conducting research, analyzing data from telescopes and satellites, publishing scientific papers, and teaching at universities. Astronomers may specialize in areas like observational astronomy, theoretical astronomy, or instrumentation. They also attend conferences and collaborate with other scientists worldwide. The role requires strong analytical skills, curiosity, and a solid background in physics and mathematics.

What jobs can I get as a full time astronomer?

Full-time astronomers typically work as research scientists, university faculty, observatory staff, or in government agencies like space agencies and research institutions. They analyze data using specialized software, publish scientific papers, and may participate in public outreach or educational programs.

What is the difference between Full Time Astronomer vs Research Scientist?

AspectFull Time AstronomerResearch Scientist
Required CredentialsMaster's or PhD in Astronomy, Physics, or relatedMaster's or PhD in relevant field, often in science or engineering
Work EnvironmentObservatories, research institutions, universitiesLaboratories, universities, research centers
Employer & IndustryAstronomy research organizations, universitiesUniversities, government agencies, private research firms

Full Time Astronomers primarily focus on astronomical research, observation, and data analysis within observatories or academic settings. Research Scientists have a broader scope, working across various scientific fields, including astronomy, often in labs or research institutions. While both roles require advanced degrees, the specific focus and work environment distinguish them.

What are the most commonly searched types of Astronomer jobs?

The most popular types of Astronomer jobs are:

What states have the most Full Time Astronomer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Full Time Astronomer jobs include:

Infographic showing various Full Time Astronomer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 97% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 67% Physical, 7% Hybrid, and 26% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,392 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

Postdoctoral Fellowship in Stellar Astrophysics

Villanova University

Villanova, PA • On-site

$44K - $60K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


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Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

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Job description

Posting Details
Do you have questions about the application process? If so, please refer to the Applicant FAQ's.
Posting Details (Default Section)
Posting Number:
20241144F
Position Title:
Postdoctoral Fellowship in Stellar Astrophysics
Position Type:
Faculty
Location:
Villanova, PA
Recruitment Type:
Internal/External Applicants
Work Schedule:
full-time/12-months
Department:
182-Astronomy and Planetary Science
Position Summary:
Villanova University's Department of Astrophysics and Planetary Science invites applications for the Mendel postdoctoral research fellowship. The Mendel fellowship is a flagship postdoctoral opportunity for candidates seeking to stay in academia. The fellowship provides training and development in all three areas of academic life: research, teaching, and service. A successful applicant will join Andrej Prsa's research team and work on cutting-edge theoretical and observational aspects of binary and multiple stellar populations. In parallel, the applicant will teach an undergraduate core science course/lab to non-STEM majors, where the stress is on incorporating four critical components in a meaningful way: problem-solving, laboratory experience, technology and quantitative tools, and interdisciplinary understanding. Finally, the applicant will join the Departmental ecosphere and participate in shaping the future of research and education at Villanova. The Mendel postdoctoral fellowship is a 2-year appointment, with the possibility of extending it for another year.
Villanova is a Catholic university sponsored by the Augustinian Order. The University is an equal opportunity employer and seeks candidates who understand, respect and can contribute to the University's mission and values.
Duties and Responsibilities:
A successful applicant will be expected to:
  • Demonstrate the highest regard for the diverse, equitable and inclusive Departmental culture and uphold the true and complete respect for all students, staff and faculty.
  • Partake in state-of-the-art research in theoretical and observational stellar astrophysics, computation astrophysics, astrostatistics, and/or exoplanetary science.
  • Teach 2 sections of the Mendel core science courses or labs per semester (currently "How old is the Universe?", "Life in the Universe", "Planetary skies and landscapes", "Birth and Death of Stars", "Earth - our habitable world", and "Earth - a cosmic connection").
  • Participate in Departmental affairs: meetings, colloquia, events and functions. This includes working with and counseling undergraduate students, contributing to public events and advancing the Department's reputation and renown locally, nationally and internationally.

Minimum Qualifications:
  • A PhD in Physics, Astrophysics, Data Science or a closely related discipline is required.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Teaching: prior experience in teaching STEM classes to non-STEM majors is desired.
  • Research: strong background in physics, astrophysics, statistics and programming is desired.
  • Service: track record of the ability to work with others and to demonstrate diversity awareness is desired.

Physical Requirements and/or Unusual Work Hours:
Special Message to Applicants:
The Department of Astrophysics and Planetary Science will start reviewing applications on July 15, 2024.
All applicants must apply online and complete a faculty profile. Applications must include:
  1. A cover letter expressing interest in the position.
  2. A current and complete resume/curriculum vitae.
  3. A research statement.
  4. A teaching statement.
  5. A statement of commitment to the principles of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI).
  6. Two letters of recommendation, the system will request the letters directly from the references when appropriate in the process.

If the applicant wishes to submit any other supporting documents, they may submit them online in conjunction with the application.
Posting Date:
07/10/2024
Closing Date (11:59pm ET):
Salary Posting Information:
Competitive.
Salary Band:
Job Classification:
faculty

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About Villanova University

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Villanova University, located in Villanova, Pennsylvania, United States, operates within the higher education industry. Its establishment traces back to 1842 by the Augustinians, a Catholic religious order. The university offers a wide range of academic programs in various disciplines, including Liberal Arts and Sciences, Engineering, Nursing, Business, and Law, serving over 10,000 undergraduate, graduate, and law students. Guided by its Augustinian Catholic intellectual tradition, it is committed to community service, and it seeks to cultivate knowledgeable, thoughtful, and ethical leaders. The university’s mission is to empower students to ignite change, with a vision for a just and peaceful world.

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Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

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Villanova, PA, US

Year founded

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