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Observatory Assistant Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

NOAO

Electronic Technician III

Tucson, AZ

$32.85 - $39.27/hr

Maintain, operate, troubleshoot, and repair telescopes, instruments, and observatory electronic ... Support general operations and assist team members as needed Safety & Compliance * Follow all ...

AURA

Electronic Technician III

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$32.85 - $39.27/hr

Maintain, operate, troubleshoot, and repair telescopes, instruments, and observatory electronic ... Support general operations and assist team members as needed Safety & Compliance * Follow all ...

NSF's NOIRLab

Electronic Technician III

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$32.85 - $39.27/hr

Maintain, operate, troubleshoot, and repair telescopes, instruments, and observatory electronic ... Support general operations and assist team members as needed Safety & Compliance * Follow all ...

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Observatory Assistant information

What are some typical challenges Observatory Assistants face when working during nighttime observation sessions?

Observatory Assistants often work late hours, which can pose challenges in maintaining alertness and focus during nighttime observation sessions. They must adapt to varying weather conditions and quickly troubleshoot technical issues with telescopes or data collection equipment. Additionally, close collaboration with astronomers and other staff is essential, as assistants help coordinate observations, record data accurately, and ensure the smooth operation of nightly schedules. Developing strong communication and problem-solving skills is key to overcoming these challenges and ensuring successful observations.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

High-paying jobs that can reach or exceed $500,000 annually include executive roles such as CEOs, CFOs, and other C-suite positions, as well as specialized medical professionals like neurosurgeons and orthopedic surgeons. Certain investment bankers, hedge fund managers, and successful entrepreneurs also achieve this level of income, often requiring advanced skills, extensive experience, and significant responsibility.

What are Observatory Assistants?

Observatory Assistants are professionals who support astronomers and researchers by helping operate and maintain equipment at observatories. Their duties often include setting up telescopes, recording observational data, conducting routine maintenance, and assisting visitors during public outreach events. They play a vital role in ensuring the smooth functioning of observatory operations and may also help with data analysis or cataloging observations. The position can be part-time or full-time and sometimes includes night or weekend shifts, depending on observation schedules.

What is the highest paid assistant job?

The highest paid assistant jobs are often executive assistants or personal assistants to top executives, with salaries reaching six figures in some cases. These roles typically require extensive experience, advanced organizational skills, and sometimes specialized knowledge or certifications.

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

To thrive as an Observatory Assistant, you need a solid understanding of astronomy, data collection, and basic physics, often supported by a degree or coursework in a related field. Familiarity with telescopes, astronomical imaging software, and data analysis tools is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication are valuable soft skills for this role. These skills ensure accurate observations, smooth operations, and effective collaboration in supporting astronomical research and public outreach.

How much does an astronomer make per hour?

Astronomers typically earn between $25 and $50 per hour, depending on experience, education, and the employer. Entry-level positions or those in research institutions may pay closer to the lower end, while senior roles or those in observatories can pay higher rates. Many astronomers work full-time and may require advanced degrees and specialized skills in data analysis and telescope operation.

How to get a job in an observatory?

To become an observatory assistant, candidates typically need a background in astronomy, physics, or related sciences, along with strong observational and technical skills. Relevant experience can be gained through internships, volunteering, or coursework, and some positions may require certifications in telescope operation or safety training. Applying directly to observatories or research institutions and demonstrating a passion for astronomy are key steps.
What are popular job titles related to Observatory Assistant jobs in Arizona? For Observatory Assistant jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Observatory Assistant jobs in Arizona look for? The top searched job categories for Observatory Assistant jobs in Arizona are:
Observatory Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Observatory Assistant job openings in Arizona as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 58% Full Time, and 42% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
Outreach Instructional Assistant II, Steward Observatory (On-Call) (Multiple Positions) (UPDATED)

Outreach Instructional Assistant II, Steward Observatory (On-Call) (Multiple Positions) (UPDATED)

University of Arizona

Tucson, AZ • On-site

$16.50 - $18.75/hr

Part-time

Posted 12 days ago

University Of Arizona rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 67 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

384th of 612 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Outreach Instructional Assistant II, Steward Observatory (On-Call) (Multiple Positions) (UPDATED)
Posting Number
req26269
Department
Steward Observatory
Department Website Link
https://astro.arizona.edu/
Location
Steward Observatory
Address
9040 S. Rita Rd, Suite 1500, Tucson, AZ 85747 USA
Position Highlights
Note: The number of openings has been increased to eight.The University of Arizona's Steward Observatory invites you to apply to the role of Outreach Instructional Assistant II. As a member of the Mt. Lemmon Sky School's education team, this person will work to create, conduct/present, and supervise successful activities of large groups of adults and K-12 students. This individual will work with the full team to maintain health and safety of all participants throughout its residential programs at high-altitude observatory site at Mt. Lemmon. To maintain excellence in education, this person will interact with, and mentor, individuals and teams of students during their activities. Sky School programs include instruction on general themes relevant to sciences in the sky island region-ecology, geology, hydrology, environmental sciences, dendrochronology, soil science, astronomy, and cultural history.
Steward Observatory is both a century-old observatory on the University of Arizona campus and one of the University's oldest research units. Founded in 1918, the Observatory brings together students, staff, faculty, engineers, and technicians to explore the universe and share discoveries through world-class research, education, and outreach. With more than 180 professionals supporting advanced facilities, laboratories, and observatories, Steward Observatory offers a collaborative environment where technical expertise plays a critical role in advancing ground- and space-based astronomy.
The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs. For more information about working at the University of Arizona and relocations services, please click here.
Duties & Responsibilities
  • Work within Mt. Lemmon Sky School's education team to coordinate, conduct, and supervise daily operations.
  • The work of this position occurs both at the summit of Mount Lemmon at an altitude of ~9170 ft., as well as other locations in the Tucson valley and in-between.
  • Individuals performing this position must be able to work safely outdoors at varied elevations in climate conditions typical of being outdoors.
  • Create, deliver, and supervise the Sky Schools education activities to promote individual learning within an enthusiastic, inspirational setting.
  • Maintain health and safety of all participants and advise the Sky School's Outreach Education Manager appropriately.
  • Engage in daily logistical functions, including driving, setup, cleanup, and organization.
  • Be immediately responsive to the physical and mental needs of the Sky School's participants.

This job posting reflects the general nature and level of work expected of the selected candidate(s). It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The institution reserves the right to amend or update this description as organizational priorities and institutional needs evolve.
Minimum Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent, or equivalent learning attained through experience required.
  • Minimum of 3 years of relevant experience required.
  • Current, or willing to obtain, certification in CPR, AED, and First Aid with Red Cross or equivalent group 3 months after start date.

Preferred Qualifications
FLSA
Non-Exempt
Full Time/Part Time
Part Time
Number of Hours Worked per Week
10
Job FTE
0.25
Work Calendar
Fiscal
Job Category
Outreach and Community Engagement
Benefits Eligible
No Benefits
Rate of Pay
$16.50 - $18.75
Compensation Type
hourly rate
Grade
2
Compensation Guidance
The Rate of Pay Field represents the University of Arizona's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. The University considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, and internal equity.
The Grade Range represent a full range of career compensation growth over time. The university offers compensation growth opportunities within its career architecture. To learn more about compensation, please review our Applicant Compensation Guide and our Total Rewards Calculator.
Career Stream and Level
OC2
Job Family
Outreach Education
Job Function
Outreach & Community Engage
Type of criminal background check required:
Name-based criminal background check (non-security sensitive)
Number of Vacancies
8
Target Hire Date
7/6/2026
Expected End Date
Contact Information for Candidates
David Austin
Outreach Education Manager
davidaustin@arizona.edu
Open Date
6/17/2026
Open Until Filled
Yes
Documents Needed to Apply
Resume and Cover Letter
Special Instructions to Applicant
Notice of Availability of the Annual Security and Fire Safety Report
In compliance with the Jeanne Clery Campus Safety Act (Clery Act), each year the University of Arizona releases an Annual Security Report (ASR) for each of the University's campuses.Thesereports disclose information including Clery crime statistics for the previous three calendar years and policies, procedures, and programs the University uses to keep students and employees safe, including how to report crimes or other emergencies and resources for crime victims. As a campus with residential housing facilities, the Main Campus ASR also includes a combined Annual Fire Safety report with information on fire statistics and fire safety systems, policies, and procedures.
Paper copies of the Reports can be obtained by contacting the University Compliance Office at cleryact@arizona.edu.

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