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Observatory Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

NSF's NOIRLab

Principal Software Architect

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$155K - $189K/yr

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Architect and evolve cloud-native, containerized, distributed, and HPC-based platforms supporting observatory operations, scientific data pipelines, user services, and large-scale data processing ...

AURA

Principal Software Architect

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$155K - $189K/yr

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Architect and evolve cloud-native, containerized, distributed, and HPC-based platforms supporting observatory operations, scientific data pipelines, user services, and large-scale data processing ...

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Observatory information

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How much do observatory jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for observatory in Arizona is $13.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.44 and $16.11 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Observatory jobs in Arizona?

The most popular types of Observatory jobs in Arizona are:

What are popular job titles related to Observatory jobs in Arizona?

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

What job categories do people searching Observatory jobs in Arizona look for?

The top searched job categories for Observatory jobs in Arizona are:

What cities in Arizona are hiring for Observatory jobs?

Cities in Arizona with the most Observatory job openings:

Observatory jobs near you
Infographic showing various Observatory job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $28,854 per year, or $13.9 per hour.

R&D Electrical Engineer III, Steward Observatory

University of Arizona

Tucson, AZ

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New

University Of Arizona rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 68 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

362nd of 619 rated colleges and universities

Job description

  • Support operations for telescopes operated by Steward Observatory in southern Arizona, including telescopes on Kitt Peak, Mt. Graham, Mt. Lemmon, and Mt. Bigelow.
  • Identify complex operating and performance problems and implement solutions.
  • Support operations including troubleshooting, repair, and maintenance of equipment at telescope sites, providing guidance to telescope operators and other technical staff.
  • Travel to operation sites with occasional overnight stays.
  • Lead the engineering phase of projects, providing direction and coordination to engineers and technicians.
  • Independently devise criteria for design, development, implementation, and commissioning of new electrical, electro-mechanical, and control systems for the telescopes and facilities.
  • Improve and optimize systems.
  • Oversee and provide engineering design and analysis to other Steward Observatory projects.
  • Additional duties as assigned. 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: 

  • Knowledge of electrical engineering principles and electro-mechanical systems.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
  • Ability to work well within a multi-disciplinary team environment.
  • Ability to communicate technical information effectively to multidisciplinary teams, translating complex engineering concepts into actionable guidance for technical and operational personnel.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities, work independently with minimal supervision, and adapt to changing operational needs in a research environment.
  • Ability to work safely and effectively in remote field environments, including traveling to mountaintop observatories and supporting operations under varying environmental and weather conditions.
  • Skill in diagnosing and resolving complex electrical, control system, and equipment performance issues.

Physical Requirements: 

  • Ability to lift/transport up to 50 lbs.
  • Ability to routinely climb stairs and ladders at various altitudes. 
  • Ability to work for extended periods of time at remote sites with elevations up to 11,000 feet.
  • Ability to work in extreme mountain weather conditions.
  • Ability to install snow chains and drive a 4x4 vehicle on mountain roads.
  • Ability to work at heights. 
  • Ability to work long, irregular shifts and to take occasional after-hours call-outs, including during nights, weekends, and holidays.

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