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Observatory Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

National Solar Observatory

... Solar Observatory is seeking a Systems Administrator/Cybersecurity Engineer to strengthen and ... server operating systems, network administration, system hardware, virtual machine environment ...

aui

Head of Software Engineering

Charlottesville, VA · On-site +1

$251K/yr

The Observatory is a hub for technological and scientific collaboration, operating state-of-the-art radio telescope facilities for use by the international scientific community. The Observatory has ...

Caltech

ZTF Pipeline Operator

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$19 - $25.75/hr

As a Pipeline Operator, you will be part of the Science Data System team for the Zwicky Transient ... Alert observatory staff of real-time data issues * Monitor Solar System candidate asteroid ...

Caltech (California)

ZTF Pipeline Operator

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$19 - $25.75/hr

As a Pipeline Operator, you will be part of the Science Data System team for the Zwicky Transient ... Alert observatory staff of real-time data issues * Monitor Solar System candidate asteroid ...

NCSL International

Scientist (Open Rank)

Socorro, NM · On-site

$85K - $138K/yr

The Observatory is a hub for technological and scientific collaboration, operating state-of-the-art radio telescope facilities for use by the international scientific community. The Observatory has ...

aui

Scientist (Open Rank)

Socorro, NM · On-site

$85K - $138K/yr

The Observatory is a hub for technological and scientific collaboration, operating state-of-the-art radio telescope facilities for use by the international scientific community. The Observatory has ...

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Observatory Operator information

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How much do observatory operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for observatory operator in the United States is $23.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $26.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an observatory operator?

Observatory Operators are professionals responsible for managing and operating telescopes and other observational equipment at astronomical observatories. They ensure that all instruments are functioning correctly, assist astronomers with data collection, and often monitor environmental conditions to optimize observations. Their duties may also include maintaining equipment, troubleshooting technical issues, and sometimes supporting public outreach or educational programs at the observatory.

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

To thrive as an Observatory Operator, you need a solid understanding of astronomy, physics, and computer science, typically supported by a relevant degree or technical training. Familiarity with telescope control software, CCD imaging systems, and data acquisition tools is essential, and certifications in electronics or instrumentation can be advantageous. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help operators manage complex equipment and coordinate with research teams. These competencies are vital to ensure accurate observations, maintain equipment functionality, and support scientific research objectives.

What are some typical challenges observatory operators face during night shifts, and how can they be managed?

Observatory Operators often work irregular night shifts, which can be physically and mentally demanding due to disrupted sleep patterns and extended periods of concentration. Common challenges include maintaining alertness during long observation sessions, troubleshooting unexpected equipment issues in real-time, and adapting to rapidly changing weather conditions. Effective time management, regular communication with the scientific team, and thorough familiarity with operational protocols are essential for overcoming these challenges. Building a strong support network with fellow staff and prioritizing self-care can help maintain performance and well-being.

What cities are hiring for Observatory Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Observatory Operator job openings:

What states have the most Observatory Operator jobs?

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

What are popular job titles related to Observatory Operator jobs?

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

Senior Software Engineer

Maui, HI • On-site

National Solar Observatory
201 - 500 employees
Learn more about National Solar Observatoryexternal

$125K - $167K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

The NSF Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope (DKIST), operated by the National Solar Observatory (NSO), is the world’s largest and most advanced solar telescope, designed to help answer fundamental questions about our Sun and its complex magnetic fields. DKIST, which completed construction and began operations in November 2021 on the summit of Haleakala, Maui, Hawaii is a major program within the NSO. The NSO, an NSF national research and development center dedicated to solar science, is managed by the Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA). AURA, a consortium of 49 U.S. institutions and 3 international affiliates, operates world-class astronomical observatories. Its role is to establish, nurture, and promote public observatories and facilities that drive innovative astronomical research.

We are seeking a Senior Software Engineer to provide technical leadership and hands-on development for our High-Level Software (HLS) systems supporting advanced telescope and instrumentation platforms. This role will solve complex technical challenges, guide engineers and partners, and contribute directly to system design, development, and operations at the DKIST facility.

You will play a key role in delivering robust, scalable software systems that support scientific discovery, collaborating closely with cross-functional teams across engineering and operations.

Essential Functions
Technical Leadership & Development
  • Design, develop, test, deploy, and maintain high-level software systems for telescope and instrument applications
  • Lead complex engineering efforts and provide technical direction to team members and collaborators
  • Architect and implement scalable, multi-threaded, distributed systems
  • Support system integration across observatory platforms
Collaboration & Execution
  • Partner with engineering teams, operations staff, subcontractors, and stakeholders to deliver solutions
  • Plan and execute work aligned with technical, schedule, and budget requirements
  • Identify and resolve complex problems with minimal direction
  • Recommend and implement improvements to systems and processes
Documentation & Quality
  • Maintain comprehensive documentation (design specs, APIs, test plans, user guides)
  • Ensure high-quality software delivery through testing and best practices
  • Support CI/CD pipelines and automated testing frameworks
Operations Support
  • Provide software support for summit and science operations as needed
  • Participate in system upgrades and new initiatives
Compliance & Safety
  • Adhere to safety standards and organizational policies
  • Ensure compliance with government award requirements (if applicable)
  • Promote a respectful, inclusive, and collaborative work environment
Requirements
  • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field (or equivalent experience)
  • 10+ years of software development experience, including:
    • 5+ years with Java (including Swing)
    • Experience building multi-threaded, distributed systems
    • At least 1 year of Python
  • Experience with Linux-based development environments
  • Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to work from high-level objectives
  • Experience with databases (PostgreSQL or similar)
  • Familiarity with Agile development practices
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills

This position involves access to technical data that is subject to U.S. export control laws, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Pursuant to these regulations, only U.S. persons (as defined in the regulations) are eligible for access to the controlled technical data. A "U.S. person" includes a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, lawful permanent resident (green card holder), or person granted asylum or refugee status. Applicants must be eligible to access export-controlled information as defined by U.S. law.

Preferences
  • Experience in scientific, engineering, or large-scale technical environments
  • Knowledge of distributed control systems or observatory/telescope systems
  • Experience with:
    • Middleware frameworks (e.g., EPICS, TANGO, DDS, ICE)
    • High-throughput data systems (GB/s scale)
    • CI/CD pipelines and automated testing
    • Cloud platforms (AWS, GCP)
    • Container technologies (Docker, Kubernetes)
  • Familiarity with motion control systems (e.g., Beckhoff, Omron, Delta Tau)
  • Experience managing vendors or technical contractors
Work Environment & Physical Requirements
  • Primarily office-based with extended computer use
  • Occasional lifting (up to 25 lbs)
  • Periodic work at high-elevation observatory site (~10,000 ft)
  • Frequent communication and collaboration with team members

Salary Range: $125,000 - $167,000 per year. The final salary will depend on skills, qualifications and experience.

AURA offers an excellent benefits package including paid time off and retirement plan contributions, competitive salary commensurate with experience, and a very attractive work environment. Details on benefits can be found at Benefits by Location - Aura Human Resources 

Apply by July 5, 2026 for priority consideration. This position will remain open until it is filled. Please submit a cover letter and a CV or resume, PDF files preferred. Please name any attachments with the following format: LastName DocName.

Individuals needing assistance with the employment process can request assistance here.

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