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Radio Astronomy Jobs (NOW HIRING)

aui

2027 Jansky Fellowships

Charlottesville, VA · On-site

$37K - $47K/yr

Position Description The NSF National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) invites applications for the 2027 Jansky Fellowship Program. The Jansky Fellowships support outstanding early career ...

aui

2027 Jansky Fellowships

Charlottesville, VA · On-site

$37K - $47K/yr

Position Description The NSF National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) invites applications for the 2027 Jansky Fellowship Program. The Jansky Fellowships support outstanding early career ...

NCSL International

Scientist (Open Rank)

Socorro, NM · On-site

$85 - $138/hr

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 ...

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 · 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

Scientist (Open Rank)

Socorro, NM · On-site

$85K - $138K/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

Scientist (Open Rank)

Socorro, NM · On-site

$85K - $138K/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 ...

University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

WI · On-site

$55 - $75/hr

... Radio Astronomy and Relativistic Astrophysics. Besides excellence in research and teaching, the department places special emphasis on early involvement of undergraduate and graduate students in ...

AUI

Systems Engineer

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 ...

aui

Systems Engineer

Charlottesville, VA · On-site

$114K - $138K/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

Systems Engineer

Charlottesville, VA · On-site

$114K - $138K/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

Contracts Specialist

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$60K - $70K/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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Radio Astronomy information

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How much do radio astronomy jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 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 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 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 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.

How to get into radio astronomy?

Radio astronomy is a specialized field within astronomy that typically requires a bachelor's degree in physics, astronomy, or a related field, with advanced roles often requiring a master's or Ph.D. in astrophysics or radio astronomy. Gaining experience through internships, research projects, or working with observatories and research institutions is valuable, along with developing skills in data analysis, programming, and understanding radio telescope technology.

What can you do with radio astronomy?

Radio astronomy professionals analyze radio waves from space to study celestial objects such as stars, galaxies, and black holes. They use specialized equipment like radio telescopes and often work in research institutions or observatories, contributing to our understanding of the universe's structure and origins.

What does a radio astronomer do?

A radio astronomer studies celestial objects and phenomena by analyzing radio waves emitted from space using specialized telescopes. They collect and interpret data to understand the universe's structure, composition, and behavior, often working with complex software and equipment in research environments.
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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, 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,349 per year, or $30 per hour.

CDL - Central Devel Lab - CO-OP Student

Associated Universities, Inc.

Charlottesville, VA • On-site

$17 - $22/hr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Work with and learn from experts on various teams to develop instrumentation technology for radio telescopes.

  • Participate in digital circuit design, FPGA programming, RF circuit design, and testing activities.

  • Assist in the test and evaluation of millimeter-wave receivers, antennas, and electromagnetic structures.

Job description

Position Description:
Position Summary
The Central Development Laboratory (CDL) at the National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) is the largest engineering team in the US dedicated to the development of radio astronomy technology. The CDL is a hub for technological and scientific collaboration, and has the mission to develop state-of-the-art technology for use in radio telescopes used by the international scientific community
The Central Development Laboratory (CDL) at the National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) seeks undergraduate and graduate electrical engineering and computer science co-op students and interns to work in our design and research teams to develop instrumentation technology for the next generation of radio telescope. Our technology is used on the ALMA millimeter/sub-millimeter wave telescope in Chile, the Jansky Very Large Array in New Mexico, and in observatories around the world to study exoplanet formation, black holes, stellar and galaxy formation and evolution, and to search for chemical precursors for life in the universe. The selected co-op student(s) will, depending on skills and interest, work with and learn from experts on our digital design team, our millimeter/sub-millimeter receivers team, our ALMA front end support team, our antennas and electromagnetics team, and our spectrum measurement team.. The CDL is the world leader in the application of many technologies used in radio astronomy. Learning objectives for our co-ops and interns are to:
  • Learn industry best practices for engineering design and testing,
  • Learn to work on a professional multi-disciplinary team,
  • Learn how engineering supports scientific exploration.

Individual assignments will depend on knowledge, experience, and interest, and could include:
  • Digital circuit design, implementation and testing.
  • FPGA programming (Verilog) and testing.
  • RF circuit design, implementation and testing.
  • Antenna/RF design and analysis, and testing.
  • Signal processing algorithm development.
  • Software development and testing.
  • Test and evaluation of millimeter-wave receivers, antennas, and electromagnetic structures.
  • Mechanical design

Work Environment
Assignment will take place in an indoor lab setting with some outdoor work possible testing equipment. Must be able to work at a computer with detailed and complex textual and numerical information. Must be able to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
Who You Are:
  • You are enrolled in a four-year accredited university and are majoring in electrical engineering or computer science and can participate in an on-site co-op program.
  • You have completed at least one year of undergraduate studies, two years preferred.
  • You must be currently authorized to work in the United States.

Total Rewards:
Compensation
The starting hourly rate of this position is between $17 - $22. 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.
**Housing assistance or stipends are not available for this position. Travel reimbursements up to $900 are available for qualifying relocation expenses. For more information about the Charlottesville area, please visit https://www.visitcharlottesville.org/
Application Instructions:
Select the "Apply" button. Please be prepared to upload your current CV/Resume and a cover letter describing interest and suitability for the position.
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement:
AUI is an equal opportunity employer. To view our complete statement, please visit https://public.nrao.edu/careers/. If you require reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process, you may submit your request by sending an email to resumes@nrao.edu.

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