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Radio Astronomy Jobs (NOW HIRING)

aui

Software Engineer III

Green Bank, WV · 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 ...

aui

ALMA2040 Project Director

Charlottesville, VA

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

ALMA2040 Project Director

Charlottesville, VA · On-site

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

ALMA2040 Project Director

Charlottesville, VA · On-site

$114 - $138/hr

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 Aug 16, 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 radio astronomy?

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 radio astronomy, 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.

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Radio Astronomy jobs near you
Infographic showing various Radio Astronomy job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,349 per year, or $30 per hour.

Embedded Software FPGA Design Engineer

Associated Universities, Inc.

Charlottesville, VA • On-site

$114K - $138K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Position Description:
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, Inc. (AUI) is a nonprofit organization that manages and operates the NRAO under a cooperative agreement with the National Science Foundation. 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 Central Development Laboratory (CDL) at NRAO is recruiting an experienced Embedded Software FPGA design engineer to work on its digital design team in Charlottesville, VA. The CDL is the largest laboratory in the US dedicated to radio astronomy instrumentation and this position will play a critical role in the development of digital correlators for future telescopes that will help reveal the hidden universe such as gravitational waves, the origins of galaxies, stars, and planet formation, and black holes.
What You Will be Doing:
  • Performing embedded Linux software design, implementation, simulation, and verification.
  • Performing research and solving complex technical issues, and work with minimal supervision.
  • Exhibiting excellent time management skills and an ability to multi-task.
  • Performing embedded application code development using the AMD/Xilinx Vitis tool flow and Python.
  • Working well in a team environment.

Work Environment
Work is mission driven, team oriented and typically performed in an office setting within a research and development environment. The selectee will report to the Digital Design Team manager. CDL's digital design team works cooperatively with other design groups in CDL and across NRAO and other international observatories. The selectee may be required to travel domestically and internationally by air carrier and to travel by car between NRAO sites.
Who You Are:
Education
Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering/Computer Science.
Experience
A minimum of 5 years' embedded software programming experience within processor-based FPGA devices. Candidates with progressively more responsible experience will be considered for a higher-level position ranking.
Skills and Competencies
  • Experience with AMD Zynq UltraScale+ MPSoC/RFSoC Embedded SW Design Experience
  • Experience with Embedded Linux OS (PetaLinux/Yocto) and Application Code Experience
  • Experience with AMD Vitis Tool Flow and Board Support Package (BSP) Experience
  • Proficient in Embedded Linux OS (PetaLinux/Yocto)
  • Experience with AMD Zynq UltraScale+ MPSoC Processing System (PS) architecture

Preferred Skills and Competencies
Bare metal processing system development is a plus.
Additional Requirements
Observatory employees must be authorized to work in the United States. The Observatory presently cannot sponsor H-1B Visas for this position.
Occasional travel may be required.
Total Rewards:
Compensation
The starting salary for this position is between $114,000-$138,000. Factors which may affect starting pay within this range may include; education, experience, skills, competencies, other qualifications of the successful candidate, as well as internal equity and labor market conditions.
Benefits:
Associated Universities, Inc (AUI) offers a comprehensive benefits package addressing the needs of employees and their families with most benefits beginning on the first day of employment, subject to eligibility requirements. AUI provides:
  • Excellent paid time off (13 holidays, annual accrual of up to 24 vacation days)
  • Medical, dental and vision plans are effective on the first day of employment.
  • AUI's retirement benefit contributes an amount equal to 10 percent of a qualified participant's base pay with no required employee contribution.
  • Click Total Rewards for more information.

Application Instructions:
Select the "Apply" button above. You will need to be prepared to upload your current resume and a cover letter describing interest and suitability for the position.
Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis.
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement:
AUI is an equal opportunity employer. To view our complete statement, please visit If you require reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process, you may submit your request by sending an email to PM20

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