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Observatory Assistant Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

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 job categories do people searching Observatory Assistant jobs in Wisconsin look for? The top searched job categories for Observatory Assistant jobs in Wisconsin are:
Infographic showing various Observatory Assistant job openings in Wisconsin as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 55% Full Time, and 45% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Administrative Assistant II - School of Mathematics, Computing, Physics & Astronomy

Wisconsin

Stevens Point, WI โ€ข On-site

$18.50 - $19.23/hr

Part-time

Retirement

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Current Employees: If you are currently employed at any of the Universities of Wisconsin, log in to Workday to apply through the internal application process.Position Title:Administrative Assistant II - School of Mathematics, Computing, Physics & AstronomyJob Category:University StaffEmployment Type:RegularJob Profile:Administrative Assistant IIJob Duties:

The Administrative Assistant II provides office support to the School of Mathematics, Computing, Physics and Astronomy within the College of Letters and Science. The Administrative Assistant reports to the school's Assistant Dean and works with the school's Administrative Specialist to ensure an effective and efficiently functioning office for the school.

The position requires a selfmotivated individual who can work with limited supervision. A high level of confidentiality, sound judgment, and strong interpersonal skills are required. The Administrative Assistant position is essential to the effective functioning of the school.

**Full position description is available upon request. **

Key Job Responsibilities:
  • Maintains established methods and organizational systems directed at the maintenance of electronic/physical records related to work operations according to established policies and procedures
  • Sends, receives, copies, and distributes communications to the appropriate entities according to established policies and procedures under general supervision
  • Collects, analyzes, and prepares various communication materials from established sources utilizing technology mediums
  • Serves as a first point of contact for individuals and groups, provides basic organizational information via phone, in person and through other communication mediums, and routes more complex inquiries to the appropriate entities
  • Schedules logistics and secures resources for meetings, conferences, and work unit operations
Department:

The School of Mathematics, Computing, Physics and Astronomy is one of four schools within the College of Letters and Science. It houses three departments, Mathematical Sciences, Computing and New Media Technologies, and Physics and Astronomy. There are about 30 faculty and 18 instructional academic staff members who teach in these three departments and who have scholarly and/or service activities. The SMCPA is also home to the Blocher Planetarium, the Pejsa Observatory, the Center for Athletic Scheduling, and the Digital Forensics and Recovery Analysis Lab.

Compensation & Benefits:

The Administrative Assistant II is a part-time (35 hours per week average over a calendar year), hourly, non-exempt, annual (12-month), university staff position. There are fewer hours in the summer and nearly full-time work during the academic year.

Well-qualified candidates can expect a starting rate between $18.50 - $19.23 per hour commensurate with the candidate's education, related experience, and qualifications.

Eligible Universitiesof Wisconsin employees receive an excellent benefits package. To learn more about the benefits package, review theUniversities of Wisconsin Employee Benefits Quick Guide.Use theHealth & Retirement Contributions Estimatorto calculate the estimated value of your compensation and benefits.

Required Qualifications:
  • Strong interpersonal communication skills in both written and oral forms
  • Organizational and problem-solving skills, including the ability to handle multiple projects, direct office staff, set priorities, meet deadlines, and maintain high-level performance in a fast-paced environment
  • Ability to work independently and gather necessary data with minimal guidance
  • Extensive computer capabilities (word processing, spreadsheet, database)
  • Service-oriented, customer-centric, or client-focused attitude
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Understanding of the undergraduate student experience, which could be demonstrated by possessing a degree in higher education, by having student-facing university work experience, or related knowledge and experience
  • Degree in a field related to Mathematics, Computing, Physics, or Astronomy
  • Working knowledge of office procedures and University policies
  • Demonstrated ability to acquire knowledge of system software (i.e. Workday, accesSPoint, Outlook, Zoom, digital measures, Qualtrics, design)
  • Ability to work with diverse stakeholders in a professional manner. These stakeholders could include faculty, academic staff, students, administrative staff, donors, and parents.
How to Apply:

TO ENSURE CONSIDERATION: Complete applications received by 7/21/2026 are ensured full consideration. Applications received after that date may be given consideration at the discretion of the search committee. Application materials will be evaluated, and the most qualified applicants will be invited to participate in the next step of the selection process. Incomplete and/or late application materials may not receive consideration.

Files must be complete to be considered. Submission in PDF format is preferred for all attachments. Please include the following documents:

- Cover letter addressing qualifications and experience

- Resume

(Official Transcripts may be required of finalist)

After you submit your application, you are unable to edit it, so please be sure to include all application materials.

Contact Information:

Name: Dr. Cindy McCabe, Assistant Dean of the School of Mathematics, Computing, Physics and Astronomy

Email: cmccabe@uwsp.edu

Phone: 715-346-2085

If you have any questions regarding the application process, need special arrangements, or if you submitted your application with missing materials, please call or email:

Human Resources

Email: human.resources@uwsp.edu

Phone: 715-346-2606

Please note that successful applicants are responsible for ensuring their eligibility to work in the United States (i.e., a citizen or national of the United States, a lawful permanent resident, a foreign national authorized to work in the United States without the need of employer sponsorship) on or before the effective date of appointment.UW-Stevens Point does not offer H-1B or other work authorization visa sponsorship for this position

Employment will require a criminal background check. It will also require you to supply three (3) professional references/one (1) of which being a current or former supervisor. (Preference to supply five (5) professional references/two (2) of which being a current or former supervisors.) Your references will be required to answer questions regarding misconduct, sexual violence and sexual harassment.

Special Notes:

Through the discovery and dissemination of knowledge, UW-Stevens Point stimulates intellectual growth, provides a liberal education, and prepares students for a diverse sustainable world. The university is committed to creating a safe, inclusive learning community for all faculty and staff from a variety of backgrounds. Visit https://www.uwsp.edu/join-uw-stevens-point/ for more information about UW-Stevens Point. To learn about the Stevens Point (aka Point) area fun, jobs, housing, education, quality of life, and bragging rights, visit www.stevenspointarea.com.

Individuals with disabilities who need a reasonable accommodation during the application or interview process should contact Human Resources and Affirmative Action at 715-346-2606 or hr@uwsp.edu.

The safety and success of students, faculty, and staff at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point is paramount. The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act requires the distribution of an annual security report to all current and prospective students, faculty, and staff. You may obtain the complete report at https://www3.uwsp.edu/protsv/Pages/Clery.aspx

The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point will not reveal the identities of applicants who request confidentiality in writing, except the identity of the successful candidate will be released. See Wis. Stat. sec. 19.36(7).

An offer of employment will require a criminal background check and authorization to work within the United States as required by the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986.

UW is an Equal Opportunity Employer:


Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, pregnancy, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other bases protected by applicable federal or State law and UW System policies. We are committed to building a workforce that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills, and encourage all qualified individuals to apply.