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Remote Observational Astronomy information

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$28

$32

$36

How much do remote observational astronomy jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for remote observational astronomy in the United States is $32.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.77 and $34.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is remote observational astronomy?

Remote observational astronomy is the practice of studying celestial objects and phenomena by operating telescopes and other astronomical instruments from a distance, often via the internet. This allows astronomers and researchers to access and control telescopes located in optimal observing locations around the world without needing to be physically present. Remote observing is commonly used to collect data for research, education, and outreach, making astronomy more accessible to a wider audience. It also enables more efficient use of telescope time and resources, as multiple users can schedule observations remotely.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Remote Observational Astronomer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Remote Observational Astronomer, you need a solid background in physics or astronomy, strong analytical skills, and typically an advanced degree (MSc or PhD) in a related field. Familiarity with telescope control software, data analysis tools like Python or IRAF, and experience using remote observatory systems are crucial. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help astronomers interpret data accurately and collaborate with research teams. These skills ensure precise data collection, meaningful scientific discoveries, and the ability to contribute effectively to global research projects.

What is the difference between Remote Observational Astronomy vs Remote Astronomer?

AspectRemote Observational AstronomyRemote Astronomer
Required credentialsDegree in Astronomy, Physics, or related fieldDegree in Astronomy, Physics, or related field
Work environmentRemote access to telescopes and data analysisRemote research, data analysis, and interpretation
Employer and industry usageResearch institutions, observatories, universitiesResearch institutions, universities, space agencies

Remote Observational Astronomy involves operating telescopes remotely and collecting observational data, while Remote Astronomer focuses on analyzing data, developing theories, and publishing research. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and often work within the same organizations, but their primary tasks differ—one is data collection, the other data analysis.

What are some common challenges faced by remote observational astronomers and how can they be managed?

Remote observational astronomers often encounter challenges such as maintaining reliable access to telescope networks, troubleshooting technical issues from afar, and coordinating with teams across different time zones. Effective communication with on-site support staff and thorough preparation—such as pre-scripting observations and regularly updating software—can help mitigate these hurdles. Additionally, developing strong problem-solving skills and staying adaptable are key to ensuring successful data collection and analysis in a remote environment.
What cities are hiring for Remote Observational Astronomy jobs? Cities with the most Remote Observational Astronomy job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Observational Astronomy jobs? The most popular types of Observational Astronomy jobs are:
What states have the most Remote Observational Astronomy jobs? States with the most job openings for Remote Observational Astronomy jobs include:
Remote Observational Astronomy jobs near you
Infographic showing various Remote Observational Astronomy job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 15% Locum Tenens, 4% As Needed, 33% Full Time, 45% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 59% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 40% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,000 per year, or $32.7 per hour.
Astrophysics Software Designer - Expert

Astrophysics Software Designer - Expert

Mercor

New York, NY • On-site, Remote

$70 - $100/hr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

About the job

Mercor connects elite creative and technical talent with leading AI research labs. Headquartered in San Francisco, our investors include Benchmark, General Catalyst, Peter Thiel, Adam D'Angelo, Larry Summers, and Jack Dorsey.

Position: STEM Computational Scientific Software & Evaluation Design - Astrophysics & Cosmology
Type: Contract
Compensation: $70–$100/hour
Location: Remote
Commitment: 15–20 hours/week

Role Responsibilities

  • Design graduate-level computational problems using domain-specific scientific software libraries.
  • Evaluate AI systems' ability to solve research-grade problems, from querying simulations to interpreting outputs.
  • Develop experimental strategies to recover hidden information from data, emphasizing strategic reasoning.
  • Calibrate tasks against state-of-the-art AI models, refining problem designs to achieve target difficulty.
  • Work independently and asynchronously to iterate on problem designs based on calibration feedback.
  • Utilize astropy and related tools for cosmological calculations and observational data reduction.

Qualifications

Must-Have

  • Graduate-level training in a relevant STEM domain (MS, PhD, or equivalent research experience).
  • Demonstrated proficiency with scientific software libraries, evidenced by research publications or professional work.
  • Strong Python programming skills for writing problem setups and solution validators.
  • Ability to work in a Linux/terminal environment with remote compute sandboxes.
  • Available for at least 15–20 hours per week.

Preferred

  • Experience across multiple listed domains or tools.
  • Familiarity with benchmark or evaluation design.
  • Background in scientific pedagogy or exam/problem-set design.
  • Experience with computational reproducibility and containerized environments.

Application Process (Takes 20–30 mins to complete)

  • Upload resume
  • AI interview based on your resume
  • Submit form

Resources & Support

  • For details about the interview process and platform information, please check: https://talent.docs.mercor.com/welcome
  • For any help or support, reach out to: support@mercor.com

PS: Our team reviews applications daily. Please complete your AI interview and application steps to be considered for this opportunity.