ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Full Time Astronomer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Pennsylvania State University

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 Inc.

Field Service Technician

San Antonio, TX · On-site

$52K - $58K/yr

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 ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsAstronomer JobsFull Time Astronomer Jobs

Full Time Astronomer information

See salary details

$12

$17

$25

How much do full time astronomer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 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:
Full Time Astronomer jobs near you
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 2 days ago

Villanova University rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

309th of 616 rated colleges and universities

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:
20251202F
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 advance their academic careers. The fellowship provides comprehensive training and development in research, teaching, and service. The successful applicant will join Dr. Kelly Hambleton's research group and work on cutting-edge projects in binary systems and asteroseismology. Current topics of interest include solar-like oscillators in binary systems, tidally excited pulsations, and RR Lyrae stars. Our research extensively utilizes data from Kepler, TESS, and Gaia, and we are actively involved in the Rubin LSST's Transiting and Variable Science Collaboration.
Alongside research, the fellow will teach undergraduate core science courses/labs for non-STEM majors, focusing on integrating problem-solving, laboratory experience, technology, quantitative tools, and interdisciplinary understanding. The fellow will also actively engage in departmental activities, contributing to research and education initiatives that shape the department's future.
The Mendel Postdoctoral Fellowship is a 2-year appointment with the possibility of extension for an additional 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:
The successful applicant will:
  • Uphold and contribute to the department's culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion, demonstrating respect for all students, staff, and faculty.
  • Conduct state-of-the-art research in computational stellar astrophysics.
  • Teach two sections of Mendel core science courses or labs per semester (current courses include "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").
  • Mentor undergraduate students, including those from underrepresented backgrounds in STEM.
  • Participate in departmental affairs such as meetings, colloquia, public events, and outreach initiatives, contributing to the department's reputation locally, nationally, and internationally.

Minimum Qualifications:
A Ph.D. in Physics, Astrophysics, Data Science, or a closely related discipline is required.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Demonstrated ability to work effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds and contribute to inclusive environments in research, teaching, or outreach.
  • Experience advocating for diversity, equity, and inclusion within academic or professional settings.
  • Prior experience teaching STEM courses to non-STEM majors.
  • Strong background in physics, astrophysics, statistics, and programming.
  • Experience mentoring students or junior researchers, particularly from underrepresented groups.

Physical Requirements and/or Unusual Work Hours:
Special Message to Applicants:
Villanova University is committed to fostering an inclusive academic environment and strongly encourages individuals from historically underrepresented groups in STEM to apply. Applications will be reviewed starting March 1, 2025, but will be accepted until the position is filled.
Required Application Materials:
  1. A cover letter expressing interest in the position.
  2. A current and complete CV.
  3. A research statement (2-page maximum).
  4. A teaching statement (2-page maximum).
  5. A statement on your contribution to University's mission reflecting on how your teaching, research and service contributes to the University's value orientation as discussed in the University's mission (and enduring principles).
  6. Two letters of recommendation (the system will request these directly from referees).

Optional Supporting Documents:
Applicants may submit additional documents relevant to their application, such as examples of outreach activities, teaching evaluations, or publications.
Why Villanova University?
Villanova University fosters an inclusive academic environment where scholars from all backgrounds can thrive. The Department of Astrophysics and Planetary Science is part of a vibrant academic and regional community dedicated to fostering belonging, supporting underrepresented groups in STEM, and advancing cutting-edge research. In addition to becoming a member of the Department of Astrophysics and Planetary Science, the successful applicant will become part of the newly established Villanova One Sky Center for Astrophysics, an interdisciplinary center devoted to advancing equity in astrophysics. We further provide mentoring and professional development opportunities through university-wide initiatives including VISIBLE: Villanova Initiative to Support Inclusiveness and Build Leaders.
About the Fellowship:
The Mendel Postdoctoral Fellowship offers competitive salary with travel funds and benefits, access to professional development workshops, and opportunities to collaborate within a supportive academic community. Fellows will have access to resources that enhance research and teaching excellence, preparing them for the next stage of their academic careers.
Posting Date:
01/31/2025
Closing Date (11:59pm ET):
03/15/2025
Salary Posting Information:
Competitive
Salary Band:
Job Classification:
faculty

What Villanova University employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Villanova University logo

About Villanova University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

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.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Villanova, PA, US

Year founded

1842

Social media

FacebookTwitter

View All Villanova University Jobs

Apply