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Observational Astronomy Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Varsity Tutors

Astronomy Tutor

Augusta, GA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Adapts instruction using planetarium software, telescope observation guides, and NASA data sets to ... astronomy through introductory astrophysics courses. * Effective Teaching Methods: Ability to ...

Varsity Tutors

Astronomy Tutor

$18 - $40/hr

Adapts instruction using planetarium software, telescope observation guides, and NASA data sets to ... astronomy through introductory astrophysics courses. * Effective Teaching Methods: Ability to ...

Varsity Tutors

Astronomy Tutor

Rexburg, ID · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Adapts instruction using planetarium software, telescope observation guides, and NASA data sets to ... astronomy through introductory astrophysics courses. * Effective Teaching Methods: Ability to ...

Varsity Tutors

Astronomy Tutor

WY · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Adapts instruction using planetarium software, telescope observation guides, and NASA data sets to ... astronomy through introductory astrophysics courses. * Effective Teaching Methods: Ability to ...

Varsity Tutors

Astronomy Tutor

Atlanta, GA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Adapts instruction using planetarium software, telescope observation guides, and NASA data sets to ... astronomy through introductory astrophysics courses. * Effective Teaching Methods: Ability to ...

Varsity Tutors

Astronomy Tutor

Newton, MA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Adapts instruction using planetarium software, telescope observation guides, and NASA data sets to ... astronomy through introductory astrophysics courses. * Effective Teaching Methods: Ability to ...

Varsity Tutors

Astronomy Tutor

Sugar Land, TX · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Adapts instruction using planetarium software, telescope observation guides, and NASA data sets to ... astronomy through introductory astrophysics courses. * Effective Teaching Methods: Ability to ...

Varsity Tutors

Astronomy Tutor

Lincoln, NE · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Adapts instruction using planetarium software, telescope observation guides, and NASA data sets to ... astronomy through introductory astrophysics courses. * Effective Teaching Methods: Ability to ...

Varsity Tutors

Astronomy Tutor

Oak Lawn, IL · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Adapts instruction using planetarium software, telescope observation guides, and NASA data sets to ... astronomy through introductory astrophysics courses. * Effective Teaching Methods: Ability to ...

Varsity Tutors

Astronomy Tutor

Spanish Fork, UT · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Adapts instruction using planetarium software, telescope observation guides, and NASA data sets to ... astronomy through introductory astrophysics courses. * Effective Teaching Methods: Ability to ...

Varsity Tutors

Astronomy Tutor

Tempe, AZ · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Adapts instruction using planetarium software, telescope observation guides, and NASA data sets to ... astronomy through introductory astrophysics courses. * Effective Teaching Methods: Ability to ...

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Observational Astronomy information

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How much do observational astronomy jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for observational astronomy in the United States is $35.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $48.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do observational astronomers make?

Observational astronomers typically earn between $50,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and the employer. Salaries can vary based on whether they work in academia, government agencies, or private research institutions, and often include opportunities for research funding and grants.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an observational astronomer?

To excel in observational astronomy, you need a solid background in physics and mathematics, typically supported by a degree in astronomy or a related science. Familiarity with telescopes, CCD imaging, spectrographs, and software for data analysis such as Python or IRAF is essential. Strong analytical thinking, meticulous attention to detail, and effective teamwork are important soft skills. These attributes are crucial for accurately gathering data, interpreting astronomical phenomena, and collaborating with research teams.

What are the typical working hours and environments for an observational astronomer?

Observational astronomers often work at observatories, universities, or research institutions, and their schedules can include nighttime hours to align with telescope observation windows. While some data analysis and preparation take place during regular office hours, key responsibilities may require overnight shifts or travel to remote locations with specialized telescope facilities. Collaboration with other astronomers, technicians, and students is common, making teamwork and communication important aspects of the job. Adapting to variable schedules and working under unique environmental conditions are normal parts of the role, offering both challenges and the excitement of direct discovery.

What does an observational astronomer do?

An observational astronomer studies celestial objects and phenomena by analyzing data collected from telescopes and other astronomical instruments. They often work with optical, radio, or space-based telescopes to observe stars, planets, galaxies, and cosmic events. Their work involves planning observations, processing data, and interpreting results to advance our understanding of the universe. Observational astronomers may also contribute to developing new instruments or techniques for better data collection. Many work in research institutions, universities, or observatories, often collaborating with theoretical astronomers to refine models and predictions.

What degree do you need to be an observational astronomer?

Observational astronomers typically need at least a bachelor's degree in astronomy, physics, or a related field, with many positions requiring a master's or Ph.D. for research roles. Advanced degrees provide specialized knowledge and skills in telescope operation, data analysis, and astrophysics, which are essential for conducting research and working with astronomical instruments.
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Observational Astronomy jobs near you
Infographic showing various Observational Astronomy job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 59% Full Time, 37% Part Time, and 4% Temporary. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,075 per year, or $35.6 per hour.

Online High School Astrophysics Instructor Summer 2026

Education Unlimited

Stanford, CA • Remote

$1.0K/wk

Temporary

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Education Unlimited® provides academic summer camps & pre-college summer programs for students entering grades 4-12. Our summer programs include public speaking camps, college admissions prep programs, science camps, summer acting camp, writing camps, computer camp, leadership camp, video production camp, and college tours.

Applications are currently being accepted for the below online teaching position.

  • Astrophysics (Gr 9–12, Online): July 27–31
    • Mon - Fri 830 am to 130pm with a 1 hour lunch 
    • Synchronous course taught Via Zoom and Google Classroom 
    • 7-8 academically motivated high school students
    • $975 - $1075 compensation
    • Curriculum provided 

Astrophysics Course Description: 

Beginning from the cosmic chaos, astrophysics will delineate the foundation goals of the field by tracing the evolution of the universe from its origins through to modern times and probing into its future fate. 

Students will delve into the depths of the cosmos to push their understanding to the very frontier of the unknown, and perchance beyond that! Students embarking on this adventure will be introduced to the wave-particle duality of light, radiation, and stellar evolution, illuminating their curiosities in the process. They will then explore advanced topics in cosmology such as supermassive black holes, spacetime fabric, and mapping the large-scale structure of the cosmos. Studies will culminate with Einstein’s Theory of Relativity. 

The curriculum is supported by computational simulations of dark matter and galactic formation, physical demonstration, student-led discussions, and thought experiments. Observational astronomy will be interlaced into the course using solar and night sky observational telescopes, focusing on techniques for identifying the constellations and naked-eye astronomy. Students will pursue their final research in a self-selected specification of interest. Projects vary but are all relevant to modern professional research and exploration, such as observational astrophysics, astroparticle physics, or physical cosmology. Their final research projects will incorporate real data from working telescopes and research laboratories. 

Qualifications:

Instructors are usually year-round science teachers, are studying science at the graduate level, or have some other significant teaching/mentoring experience in the area of astrophysics. 

  • 2+ years' experience teaching astrophysics or significant subject matter knowledge.
  • Experience working with middle or high school-age students in an academic setting preferred
  • Bachelor's degree is required; preference is given to those with an advanced degree.
  • Ability to connect with and explain complicated concepts to high school age students
  • A passion for science education.
  • A calm and professional demeanor.
  • Self-motivation and follow-through.
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

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