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Telescope Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

Telescope Opto-Mechanical Engineer

Chantilly, VA · Hybrid

The Telescope Opto-mechanical Engineer provides technical expertise and systems engineering support for the development, integration, and sustainment of advanced space-based optical payloads and ...

SAIC

Telescope Opto-Mechanical Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

The Telescope Opto-mechanical Engineer provides technical expertise and systems engineering support for the development, integration, and sustainment of advanced space-based optical payloads and ...

KBR, Inc.

Junior Telescope Operator

Kihei, HI · On-site

Junior Telescope Operator Junior Telescope Operator KBR's National Security Solutions team provides high-end engineering and advanced technology solutions to our customers in the intelligence and ...

KBR, Inc.

Junior Telescope Operator

Kihei, HI · On-site

Junior Telescope Operator Junior Telescope Operator KBR's National Security Solutions team provides high-end engineering and advanced technology solutions to our customers in the intelligence and ...

SAIC

Telescope Opto-Mechanical Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

The Telescope Opto-mechanical Engineer provides technical expertise and systems engineering support for the development, integration, and sustainment of advanced space-based optical payloads and ...

KBR

Junior Telescope Operator

Kihei, HI

Junior Telescope Operator Junior Telescope Operator KBR's National Security Solutions team provides high-end engineering and advanced technology solutions to our customers in the intelligence and ...

KBR

Junior Telescope Operator

Kihei, HI

Junior Telescope Operator Junior Telescope Operator KBR's National Security Solutions team provides high-end engineering and advanced technology solutions to our customers in the intelligence and ...

Bering-Alaka`ina Holdings, LLC

$17.75 - $21.50/hr

AMOS's telescope operators and maintainers are the key to AMOS's mission supporting routine and specialized tests, site upgrades and specialized mission operations for the United States Space Force ...

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Telescope information

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$54K

$126.8K

$158K

How much do telescope jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for telescope in the United States is $126,844.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $109,500.00 and $144,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Telescope Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Telescope Operator, you need a solid background in astronomy or physics, experience with observational techniques, and often at least a bachelor's degree in a related field. Familiarity with telescope control software, data acquisition systems, and sometimes certifications in operating specific observatory equipment are typically required. Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for coordinating with research teams and troubleshooting technical issues. These skills ensure accurate data collection, safe equipment operation, and successful scientific outcomes in observational astronomy.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

High-paying jobs that can reach or exceed $500,000 annually include executive roles such as CEOs, CFOs, and other C-suite positions, as well as successful entrepreneurs, top-tier investment bankers, and certain specialized medical professionals like neurosurgeons. These roles typically require extensive experience, advanced skills, and often involve high levels of responsibility and long working hours.

What are some typical challenges faced by telescope operators in observatories, and how can they prepare for them?

Telescope operators often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly changing weather conditions, troubleshooting technical issues with advanced equipment, and coordinating with scientists to ensure optimal data collection. Successful operators develop strong problem-solving skills, stay updated on the latest telescope technologies, and work closely with engineering and research teams. Preparing by gaining experience with remote observation software and understanding the fundamentals of astronomy can also help address these challenges and improve performance in the role.

What jobs use a telescope?

Jobs that use telescopes include astronomers, astrophysicists, observatory technicians, and optical engineers. These professionals operate, maintain, or design telescopes to study celestial objects, often requiring specialized training and knowledge of optics and astronomy tools.

What are telescopes and what do they do?

Telescopes are optical instruments designed to observe distant objects by collecting and magnifying light. They are most commonly used in astronomy to view celestial bodies like stars, planets, and galaxies. Telescopes can be found in various types, such as refracting, reflecting, and radio telescopes, each using different methods to gather and focus light or other electromagnetic radiation. By allowing us to see objects far beyond the reach of the naked eye, telescopes have played a critical role in expanding our understanding of the universe.

What is the difference between Telescope vs Astronomer?

AspectTelescopeAstronomer
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; technical training or associate degree often preferredBachelor's degree in astronomy, physics, or related field; advanced degrees common
Work EnvironmentObservatories, research facilities, or educational institutionsResearch labs, universities, observatories, or field sites
Primary FocusOperating and maintaining telescopic equipmentStudying celestial objects and phenomena
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, observatories, educational organizationsAcademic institutions, government agencies, research centers

While telescopes are tools used by astronomers, the role of an astronomer involves analyzing data, conducting research, and interpreting celestial phenomena. Telescopes are essential instruments in an astronomer's work, but they are not a profession themselves. Understanding the distinction helps job seekers identify the right career path in the field of astronomy.

What is a Telescope job?

A Telescope job typically refers to a role involving the operation, maintenance, or research use of telescopes in observatories, space agencies, or academic institutions. Professionals in this field may work as astronomers, telescope operators, or engineers, ensuring that telescopes function correctly for scientific observations. Responsibilities can include aligning optical components, calibrating instruments, analyzing astronomical data, and supporting research projects. Such jobs are commonly found at research institutions, space agencies (like NASA or ESA), and universities.

What jobs are at an observatory?

Jobs at an observatory include astronomers, astrophysicists, telescope operators, technical support staff, and maintenance technicians. These roles often require specialized knowledge of telescopes, data analysis, and sometimes certifications in astronomy or engineering. Staff typically work in a scientific or technical environment, often during night shifts for observations.

Is astronomer a high paying job?

Astronomers typically earn a median annual salary of around $100,000, but salaries can vary based on experience, education, and employer. Advanced positions at research institutions or universities may offer higher pay, especially for those with PhDs and specialized skills in data analysis and telescope operation.
More about Telescope jobs
What cities are hiring for Telescope jobs? Cities with the most Telescope job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Telescope jobs? The most popular types of Telescope jobs are:
What states have the most Telescope jobs? States with the most job openings for Telescope jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Telescope jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Telescope jobs are:
Telescope jobs near you
Infographic showing various Telescope job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 69% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 29% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $126,844 per year, or $61 per hour.
Telescope Operations Specialist

Telescope Operations Specialist

New Mexico State University

Las Cruces, NM • On-site

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

New Mexico State University rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

300th of 555 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Department Contact: Mr. William Ketzeback, 575-437-0954, bketzeba@nmsu.edu
Internal or External Search: External - Open to all applicants
Advertising Summary: New Mexico State University Department of Astronomy is seeking a Telescope Operations Specialist (TOS) for the SDSS-V 2.5m Telescope at Apache Point Observatory (APO) in Sunspot, New Mexico. The TOS is responsible for safe and efficient operations of the SDSS-V 2.5m Telescope. APO is located in the Lincoln National Forest 16 miles from the village of Cloudcroft, NM. The observatory sits on a ridge overlooking White Sands National Park, White Sands Missile Test Range and Alamogordo, NM. With great seeing, dark skies, wide field optical/infrared imaging and spectroscopy. Working at APO employees have the opportunity to lead/participate in research on the telescopes, tuition waivers to take classes at NMSU, or attend/present at conferences for professional development.
Position Details
Position Title: Telescope Operations Specialist
College/Division: Arts and Sciences College
Department: 330300-ASTRONOMY
Location: Las Cruces
Offsite Location (if applicable): Sunspot, NM
Target Hourly/Salary Rate: Commensurate with qualifications
Appointment Full-time Equivalency: 1.0
FLSA Status: Exempt
Bargaining Unit Announcement: This is NOT a bargaining unit position with American Federation of State, County & Municipal Employees (AFSCME).
Contingent Upon Funding: Contingent upon external funding
Standard Work Schedule: Shift: Other Shift
If Not a Standard Work Schedule: Monday - Sunday, 8pm - 6am, night shift, afternoon, weekends and holidays may be required.
Job Duties and Responsibilities: Telescope Operations Specialist (TOS) is responsible for nightly operation of the 2.5m telescope and instruments, quality monitoring the data streams, tracking system performance and observing efficiency. The TOS works closely with Astronomers and external consortium faculty and students, operating the telescope and instruments remotely, to efficiently take observations and debug issues. They work with other night staff to monitor the facility, weather and safe and proper operation of the telescope.
The selected candidate will perform setup/instrument preparations and calibrations, service observing and monitoring of remotely operated telescopes. Monitoring the performance of equipment and effectively communicating any problems with the day engineering and IT staff is required.
Qualifications
Required Education and Experience:Associate's Degree + 2 years of relevant experience or a Bachelor's degree.
Equivalent Qualifications:
Preferred Qualifications:Bachelor's degree in Astronomy or a related field.
Desired experience includes:
Understanding of astronomical coordinate systems and time keeping.
Experience operating telescopes and astronomical instrumentation.
Hands on experience operating small to medium (0.5m to 3.5m) telescopes and the associated mechanical and computer systems.
Proficiency in Unix/Linux and IRAF; a background in imaging and spectroscopic data reduction, as well as CCD instrumentation and electronics.
Experience programming in one or more of the following programing languages applied to astronomical problems or data: IRAF, IDL, Python, C is desirable.
Special Certification/Licensure:Candidate must have a valid driving license.
Working Conditions and Physical Effort
Environment: Work involves moderate exposure to unusual elements, such as extreme temperatures, dirt, dust, fumes, smoke, unpleasant odors, and/or loud noises.
Physical Effort: Moderate physical activity.
Lifting Requirements: Requires handling of average-weight objects up to 25 pounds or standing and/or walking for more than four (4) hours per day.
Risk: Work environment involves some exposure to hazards or physical risks, which require following basic safety precautions.

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