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Radio Astronomy Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Caltech

EMC Engineer

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$97K - $160K/yr

The role can be based at either the Caltech campus or the Owens Valley Radio Observatory (OVRO, a world class facility operated by Caltech for research in radio astronomy, located near Bishop in ...

aui

ngVLA Assistant Scientist

Charlottesville, VA · On-site

$85K/yr

Position Summary The National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) is a prestigious research and development organization that plays a vital role in the study of the universe. Associated Universities ...

aui

ngVLA Assistant Scientist

Charlottesville, VA

$85K/yr

Position Summary The National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) is a prestigious research and development organization that plays a vital role in the study of the universe. Associated Universities ...

aui

Software Engineer III

Socorro, NM · On-site +1

$79K - $120K/yr

Position Summary The National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) is a prestigious research and development organization that plays a vital role in the study of the universe. Associated Universities ...

aui

Software Engineer III

Socorro, NM · On-site +1

$79K - $120K/yr

Position Summary The National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) is a prestigious research and development organization that plays a vital role in the study of the universe. Associated Universities ...

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How much do radio astronomy jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for radio astronomy in the United States is $62,349.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62,000.00 and $62,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in radio astronomy?

Radio astronomers often encounter the challenge of handling large and complex datasets, which requires strong analytical and computational skills. Working in this field also means troubleshooting technical issues with sensitive radio equipment and dealing with radio frequency interference from man-made sources. Collaboration is frequent, as projects often involve large, multidisciplinary teams and international partnerships. Staying current with rapidly advancing technology and research methods is important for ongoing success and career growth.

What is a Radio Astronomy job?

A radio astronomy job involves studying celestial objects using radio waves instead of visible light. Scientists in this field use specialized telescopes to detect and analyze radio emissions from stars, galaxies, and other cosmic phenomena. Their work helps uncover details about the universe's structure, composition, and evolution. Radio astronomers may work in research institutions, observatories, or universities, contributing to scientific discoveries and technological advancements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Radio Astronomy position, and why are they important?

To excel in radio astronomy, a strong background in physics, mathematics, and astronomy is essential, often supported by a graduate degree in a related field. Familiarity with radio telescopes, data analysis software (such as CASA or AIPS), and programming languages like Python or MATLAB is common, and may be complemented by certifications in scientific computing. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and effective teamwork skills are highly valued in this field. These competencies enable radio astronomers to analyze complex data, collaborate on research projects, and make significant scientific discoveries.

More about Radio Astronomy jobs
What cities are hiring for Radio Astronomy jobs? Cities with the most Radio Astronomy job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Radio Astronomy jobs? The most popular types of Radio Astronomy jobs are:
What states have the most Radio Astronomy jobs? States with the most job openings for Radio Astronomy jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Radio Astronomy jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Radio Astronomy jobs are:
Radio Astronomy jobs near you
Infographic showing various Radio Astronomy job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% As Needed, 11% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 59% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 40% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,349 per year, or $30 per hour.
Radio Astronomy Radar Group (RARG) Engineer

Radio Astronomy Radar Group (RARG) Engineer

Peraton

Fort Irwin, CA

$66K - $106K/yr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Peraton rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

47th of 230 rated it services

Job description

Responsibilities

Peraton is hiring a Radio Astronomy Radar Group (RARG) Engineer to support the Deep Space Network - the array of giant radio antennas that links Earth to interplanetary spacecraft and delivers the images and data that expand our understanding of the solar system. Your work will keep that connection alive.

You'll operate, maintain, and repair the uplink and downlink systems for the DSN's largest antennas: the 70-meter DSS 14 dish, the 34-meter DSS 13 and DSS 26 dishes, and their high-power transmitters (up to 500 kW). You'll also lead the PLC-based Configuration Control group, which manages RF switches and interlocks across the antenna systems, and drive Engineering Changes in close coordination with JPL engineering teams.

What You'll Do:

  • Diagnose issues and perform or direct repairs on RF, PLC, and transmitter systems
  • Lead implementation of Engineering Changes and provide feedback to Operations Engineers
  • Log corrective actions and analyses in DRMS and MAXIMO
  • Provide operational support and technical guidance, including training and oversight of hourly personnel
  • Communicate with internal teams and external customers
  • Write clear reports on tracking results and job activities
Qualifications

What You'll Need

  • 2 years with BS/BA; 0 years with MS/MA; 6 years with no degree

  • Experience working with telemetry receiving systems
  • Experience working with PLCs and high-power transmitters
  • Working knowledge of ladder logic, PLC programming tools, and UNIX
  • Comfort working safely around high-voltage equipment
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, self-motivation, and a collaborative mindset
  • U.S. citizenship, with the ability to pass a trusted background check and NCIC screening
  • A valid California Real ID driver's license

Nice to Have

  • Experience with RSLogix 500, RSNetworx, or RSLinx
  • Familiarity with System Performance Test (SPT) equipment
  • LabView experience
  • Comfort with both Windows and UNIX environments

The Physical Side (This is hands-on, in-the-field work)

You should be comfortable:

  • Climbing antennas up to 300 ft
  • Working outdoors in extreme heat, cold, or rough weather
  • Working in confined spaces
  • Standing or sitting at a console for extended periods
  • Working extended shifts and providing on-call support when needed
Peraton Overview

Peraton is a next-generation national security company that drives missions of consequence spanning the globe and extending to the farthest reaches of the galaxy. As the world's leading mission capability integrator and transformative enterprise IT provider, we deliver trusted, highly differentiated solutions and technologies to protect our nation and allies. Peraton operates at the critical nexus between traditional and nontraditional threats across all domains: land, sea, space, air, and cyberspace. The company serves as a valued partner to essential government agencies and supports every branch of the U.S. armed forces. Each day, our employees do the can't be done by solving the most daunting challenges facing our customers. Visit peraton.com to learn how we're keeping people around the world safe and secure.

Target Salary Range$66,000 - $106,000. This represents the typical salary range for this position. Salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the individual's experience, education, knowledge, skills, and competencies, as well as geographic location and business and contract considerations. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay.EEOEEO: Equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veterans, or other characteristics protected by law.Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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About Peraton

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Peraton, we re at the forefront of delivering the next big thing every day. We re the partner of choice to help solve some of the world s most daunting challenges, delivering bold, new solutions to keep people around the world safer and more secure.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Herndon, VA, US

Year founded

2017

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