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Observatory Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

W. M. Keck Observatory

Staff Astronomer I

Kamuela, HI · On-site

$83K - $100K/yr

M. Keck Observatory, we enable groundbreaking discoveries that expand humanity's understanding of ... Knowledge of cloud computing and data storage solutions to manage large datasets. * Ability to ...

W. M. Keck Observatory

Staff Astronomer I

Waimea, HI · On-site

$83K - $125K/yr

M. Keck Observatory, we enable groundbreaking discoveries that expand humanity's understanding of ... Knowledge of cloud computing and data storage solutions to manage large datasets. * Ability to ...

W. M. Keck Observatory

Staff Astronomer I

Kamuela, HI · On-site

$83K - $100K/yr

M. Keck Observatory, we enable groundbreaking discoveries that expand humanity's understanding of ... Knowledge of cloud computing and data storage solutions to manage large datasets. * Ability to ...

aui

Project Manager I-II - UPDATED

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$76K - $106K/yr

The Observatory has been instrumental in the study of black holes, galaxies, and the early universe. NRAO is expanding project management excellence as exciting new projects are beginning. We are ...

aui

Project Manager I-II - UPDATED

Socorro, NM · On-site

$76K - $106K/yr

The Observatory has been instrumental in the study of black holes, galaxies, and the early universe. NRAO is expanding project management excellence as exciting new projects are beginning. We are ...

aui

Project Manager I-II - UPDATED

Socorro, NM · On-site

$76K - $106K/yr

The Observatory has been instrumental in the study of black holes, galaxies, and the early universe. NRAO is expanding project management excellence as exciting new projects are beginning. We are ...

aui

Project Manager I-II - UPDATED

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$76K - $106K/yr

The Observatory has been instrumental in the study of black holes, galaxies, and the early universe. NRAO is expanding project management excellence as exciting new projects are beginning. We are ...

The Aerospace Corporation

$77K - $105K/yr

The selected candidate(s) will serve as the Lead Systems Engineer for the GeoXO Spacecraft, directly supporting the Observatory Manager.**Work Model****This is a full-time position based at Goddard ...

The Aerospace Corporation

$104K - $142K/yr

The selected candidate(s) will serve as the Lead Systems Engineer for the GeoXO Spacecraft, directly supporting the Observatory Manager. Work Model This is a full-time position based at Goddard ...

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Observatory Manager information

What does an observatory manager do?

An Observatory Manager oversees the daily operations of an astronomical observatory. Their responsibilities typically include managing staff, maintaining equipment, coordinating research projects, and ensuring the observatory runs smoothly for both researchers and the public. They may also be involved in educational outreach, budgeting, and developing safety protocols. Observatory Managers often work closely with astronomers, engineers, and administrative teams to support scientific research and public engagement.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an observatory manager?

To thrive as an Observatory Manager, you need a solid background in astronomy or physics, experience in observatory operations, and a relevant degree such as a bachelor's or master's in a related field. Familiarity with telescope control software, data acquisition systems, and sometimes certifications in project or facility management are typically required. Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills help in coordinating staff, public outreach, and scientific programs. These competencies ensure the observatory runs smoothly, supports research objectives, and engages the community effectively.

What are some common challenges observatory managers face in coordinating research and public outreach activities?

Observatory Managers often balance the needs of scientific research with public outreach programs, which can be challenging due to competing schedules and resource limitations. They must coordinate with researchers to ensure observatory equipment is available for scientific use, while also planning public events or educational tours. Effective communication and careful scheduling are essential to minimize conflicts and maximize the observatory’s impact in both research and community engagement. Developing strong organizational systems and fostering collaboration between staff, researchers, and educators helps address these challenges.

What is the difference between Observatory Manager vs Astronomer?

AspectObservatory ManagerAstronomer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or master's in astronomy, physics, or related field; management experienceDegree in astronomy, astrophysics, or physics; advanced degrees often preferred
Work EnvironmentOversees observatory operations, manages staff, coordinates research activitiesConducts research, data analysis, and observations, often in labs or field sites
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, universities, observatoriesUniversities, research institutes, space agencies

While both roles involve astronomy, the Observatory Manager focuses on overseeing operations and staff management at observatories, whereas the Astronomer primarily conducts scientific research and data analysis. The roles often collaborate but differ in responsibilities and daily activities.

What cities are hiring for Observatory Manager jobs?

Cities with the most Observatory Manager job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Observatory jobs?

The most popular types of Observatory jobs are:

What states have the most Observatory Manager jobs?

States with the most job openings for Observatory Manager jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Observatory Manager jobs?

For Observatory Manager jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Staff Astronomer I

Kamuela, HI • On-site

W. M. Keck Observatory
Scientific Research and Development Services • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about W. M. Keck Observatoryexternal

$83K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

Staff Astronomer I
Department: Observing Support
Employment Type: Full Time
Location: W.M. Keck Headquarters
Reporting To: Jim Lyke
Compensation: $83,686 - $100,374 / year
Description
At W. M. Keck Observatory, we enable groundbreaking discoveries that expand humanity's understanding of the universe. We are seeking a Staff Astronomer I to join our Observing Support team and help deliver exceptional scientific capabilities to astronomers from around the world.
This position combines hands-on telescope and instrument support, scientific software and data analysis, instrumentation development, and independent research-creating a unique opportunity to contribute directly to cutting-edge astronomy while advancing your own scientific interests.
The Staff Astronomer I supports visiting astronomers before, during, and after their observing runs while collaborating with engineers and technical staff to maintain, improve, and develop Keck's world-class instrumentation. The successful candidate will conduct astronomy-related research and contribute to scientific publications while helping ensure the Observatory continues to deliver transformational science. Approximately 20% of work time is dedicated to professional research activities.
Our Mission & Values
At Keck Observatory, our work is driven by a shared commitment to advancing scientific discovery while honoring our responsibility to people, place, and community.
We are guided by core values rooted in:
  • Stewardship - We care for our people, facilities, environment, and community with integrity and long-term responsibility.
  • Service - We prioritize collective impact, supporting one another, the global astronomy community, and our local Hawaiʻi community to achieve shared goals.
  • Collaboration & Inclusion - We work across disciplines and perspectives to solve complex challenges and advance discovery together.
  • Excellence & Safety - We deliver high-quality work while maintaining a strong commitment to operational excellence and safety in everything we do.

WHY CHOOSE W. M. KECK OBSERVTORY
  • Competitive starting salary ranging from $83,686 to $100,374 annually.
  • Generous benefits package, including four (4) weeks of annual paid vacation.
  • A robust 8% 403(b) employer contribution (with a 4% employee contribution)
  • Dependent Tuition Assistance.
  • Comprehensive, fully-paid employee health insurance.
  • Join a dedicated team working on the frontiers of astronomy.

Key Responsibilities
Support of Visiting Astronomers (Observers)
  • Instruct observers in the use of WMKO's instruments and telescopes
  • Provide pre- and post-observing inquiries and support (both onsite and at remote mainland sites).
  • Offer afternoon and night-time support for observers during their runs.

Instrumentation Maintenance and Development
  • Maintain, calibrate, and develop scientific instruments and related software.
  • Provide night-time engineering support.
  • Collaborate with engineers and technicians to maintain, repair, and improve instruments.

Instrument Scientist (when assigned) Responsibilities
  • Lead the care of that instrument or capability.
  • Take primary responsibility for the instrument, ensuring its proper function and performance.

Contributions to New Instrumentation and Upgrades
  • Participate in the development of new instruments or capabilities, including adaptive optics.
  • Contribute to major upgrades of existing instruments

Data Reduction Support
  • Contribute to the development, maintenance, and support of data reduction packages.

Research
  • Conduct scientific research related to field of expertise or interest with the expectation that the research will lead to published technical and peer-reviewed papers. Collaboration with colleagues is encouraged.
  • This position allocates 20% of work time specifically for research activities.

Skills, Knowledge and Expertise
Education
  • Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) or equivalent degree in astronomy, physics, or engineering; relevant professional experience may be substituted for a degree.

Experience
  • Interest and/or experience with scientific instrumentation
  • With astronomical observing and/or working at an astronomical observatory.

Skills
  • Ability to prioritize tasks, plan activities, and meet deadlines
  • Microsoft Office Proficiency.
  • Ability to effectively deliver impactful presentations to a technical and non-technical audience.

Technical Competencies
  • Ability to interpret complex data, solve problems, and make predictions based on empirical evidence.
  • Proficiency in programming languages for data analysis and simulations (e.g., Python, C/C++, IDL, R, Bash/Shell scripting).
  • Ability to create or use data processing pipelines to handle large volumes of data, including calibration, cleaning, and extraction of useful information.
  • Knowledge of cloud computing and data storage solutions to manage large datasets.
  • Ability to write scientific papers and produce technical documentation.

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