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Observatory Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Villanova University

Observatory Attendant

Villanova, PA · On-site

$11.25/hr

Observatory Attendant Posting Type Student Hours/week: Approximately 6 Eligibility: Work study preferred but open to all students Semester 2026-2027 Academic Year Location Mendel Science Center ...

Caltech

The observatory sites are supported by science and engineering research facilities at MIT in Cambridge, MA and at Caltech in Pasadena, CA. As a senior member of the core Hanford Observatory ...

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How much do observatory jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for observatory in the United States is $14.89, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.26 and $17.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an observatory?

An observatory is a facility or location equipped with instruments for observing astronomical, meteorological, or other natural phenomena. Most often, observatories are associated with telescopes used to study stars, planets, and other objects in space. Some observatories also monitor Earth's atmosphere, weather, or seismic activity. They can be ground-based or space-based and play an essential role in scientific research and discovery.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an observatory technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Observatory Technician, you need a background in physics, astronomy, or engineering, along with hands-on experience in instrumentation and observatory operations. Familiarity with telescope control systems, data acquisition software, and possibly certifications in electronics or optics is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating with scientists and ensuring optimal equipment performance. These skills are crucial to maintaining precise observations, supporting research activities, and ensuring the efficient functioning of observatory facilities.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working at an observatory, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals at observatories often face challenges such as working irregular hours due to nighttime observations, maintaining complex equipment in remote locations, and adapting to rapidly changing weather conditions that can affect data collection. Effective communication and teamwork are crucial, as observatory staff often collaborate with researchers, engineers, and support personnel. Addressing these challenges typically involves strong organizational skills, ongoing technical training, and flexibility to adapt to unexpected situations, ensuring both the safety and success of observational projects.

What is the difference between Observatory vs Data Analyst?

AspectObservatoryData Analyst
Required credentialsTypically requires a background in science, research, or data managementRequires a degree in statistics, mathematics, or related fields
Work environmentResearch institutions, government agencies, or academic settingsCorporate, consulting firms, or research organizations
Employer and industry usageUsed for monitoring, data collection, and reporting in scientific or policy contextsUsed for analyzing data, generating reports, and supporting decision-making

While both roles involve working with data, an Observatory primarily focuses on data collection, monitoring, and reporting in scientific or research settings. A Data Analyst, on the other hand, specializes in analyzing data to extract insights and support business or organizational decisions. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in data-driven industries.

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Observatory jobs near you
Infographic showing various Observatory job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,963 per year, or $14.9 per hour.

Observatory Attendant

Villanova University

Villanova, PA • On-site

$11.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 17 days ago

Villanova University rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

312th of 618 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.
Position Information
Posting Number:
20260321V
Position Title:
Observatory Attendant
Posting Type
Student
Hours/week:
Approximately 6
Eligibility:
Work study preferred but open to all students
Semester
2026-2027 Academic Year
Location
Mendel Science Center
Detailed Work Schedule
Select one or two nights Monday through Thursday from 8 to 10 p.m. ( 7 to 9 p.m. after time change). Sign up sheet posted in department.
Number of positions:
20
Department:
182-Astronomy and Planetary Science
Contact Name:
Kathleen DeMara
Contact Phone/Extension:
6105194820
Position Summary Information
Job Description Summary:
Observatory Attendant for Astrophysics and Planetary Science classes, or for Astrophysics faculty taught MSE courses. Operate the telescope for the public during Astrophysics Public Observatory hours open to the public
Requirements:
  • Must be Astrophysics major.

Additional Information:
Physical Demands Summary:
Wage Rate:
11.25/HR
Posting Detail Information
Closing Date (11:59pm ET):
08/01/2027
Open Until Filled
Yes

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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

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