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Telescope Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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

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 ...

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 Aug 10, 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 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 does a telescope 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?

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.

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $126,844 per year, or $61 per hour.

Telescope Opto-mechanical Engineer

LV8D Solutions

Chantilly, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Mission Context
LV8D Solutions supports national security space and intelligence customers delivering next-generation sensing and exploitation capabilities. The Spacecraft Operations and Systems Integration Engineer supports the operational readiness, integration, sustainment, and performance of space-based systems throughout their lifecycle. This position serves as a critical interface between spacecraft operations teams, system developers, and factory engineering organizations to ensure capabilities are successfully integrated into operations and mission objectives are achieved.
Position Overview
LV8D Solutions is looking for a Telescope Opto-mechanical Engineer with Space Domain Operations experience to support a very dynamic and innovative space program office in Chantilly, VA. 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 telescope systems. This position serves as a key interface between government stakeholders and industry partners, facilitating collaboration across multiple vendors to improve interoperability, reduce program risk, and maximize future mission flexibility.
The successful candidate will support the maturation of advanced telescope technologies, manage cross-vendor interface coordination efforts, and contribute to the development of common engineering approaches that enhance interchangeability across future spacecraft builds. The role requires strong technical knowledge of optical and opto-mechanical systems, systems integration principles, and the ability to work effectively across government, contractor, and industry organizations
Requirements
Key Responsibilities:
  • Facilitate the transfer of knowledge related to advanced telescope technologies, optical systems, and opto-mechanical architectures between government organizations and industry partners.
  • Serve as a technical liaison between government stakeholders and telescope vendors to ensure effective communication, collaboration, and alignment of engineering objectives.
  • Manage and coordinate telescope interface requirements across multiple industry vendors to maximize component and subsystem interchangeability for future spacecraft developments.
  • Evaluate and adjudicate interface recommendations, technical trades, and design feedback from industry partners to reduce non-recurring engineering (NRE) costs and improve future integration efficiency.
  • Support the development, maintenance, and configuration management of telescope interface definitions, technical standards, and engineering baselines.
  • Participate in opto-mechanical design reviews, technical interchange meetings, and engineering assessments throughout the system lifecycle.
  • Support integration planning activities for telescope assemblies, optical payloads, and spacecraft interfaces.
  • Collaborate with government and industry teams to identify opportunities for common architectures, modular designs, and standardized interfaces that improve mission flexibility and acquisition efficiency.
  • Contribute to technology maturation efforts by assessing emerging optical technologies, evaluating readiness levels, and identifying transition opportunities into future programs.
  • Coordinate technical activities among multiple vendors, government organizations, and engineering teams to support schedule, performance, and mission objectives.
  • Support risk assessments, trade studies, and engineering analyses associated with telescope integration and performance.
  • Develop technical documentation, interface control products, engineering recommendations, and executive-level briefings to support program decision-making.

Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Systems Engineering, Physics, or a related technical discipline.
  • 9+ years of experience supporting optical systems, telescope development, spacecraft payloads, opto-mechanical engineering, systems engineering, or aerospace programs.
  • Experience working with optical payloads, telescope systems, precision mechanical systems, or space-based imaging technologies.
  • Knowledge of systems engineering principles, interface management processes, and integration activities.
  • Experience supporting technical reviews, design assessments, and engineering coordination across multiple organizations.
  • Ability to evaluate technical tradeoffs and develop recommendations that balance performance, risk, schedule, and cost considerations.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills with experience presenting technical information to government and industry stakeholders.
  • Ability to build collaborative relationships across diverse engineering teams and organizations.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Familiarity with optical payload integration, telescope manufacturing processes, precision alignment techniques, and environmental testing.
  • Experience with Interface Control Documents (ICDs), requirements management, and configuration control processes.
  • Knowledge of optical performance modeling, structural analysis, thermal analysis, or optical system design principles.
  • Experience supporting vendor management, technical interchange meetings, and government-industry partnerships.
  • Familiarity with technology readiness assessments, acquisition planning, and transition of emerging technologies into operational programs.
  • Experience supporting multi-vendor development environments and complex spacecraft integration efforts.

Security Requirements
  • U.S. Citizenship
  • Active Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmented Information (TS/SCI) clearance
  • Active Counterintelligence (CI) or Full Scope (FS) Polygraph

Work Environment
  • On-site work in a government or contractor facility
  • Occasional travel (up to 10%)

About LV8D Solutions
LV8D Solutions is an elite Systems Engineering and Technical Advisory (SETA) company that delivers advanced systems engineering, integration, acquisition, mission operations, network communications, and cybersecurity support to our defense and intelligence customers. Founded in 2019, we apply our deep technical expertise, understanding, and mission-first mindset to design, acquire, and implement complex, high-impact solutions for our Intelligence Community (IC) and Department of War (DoW) customers. We specialize in every aspect of our customers' space and ground mission systems while offering exceptional work-life balance and an exemplary compensation and total rewards package designed to recruit, train, and retain top talent and committed to national defense and career growth.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
LV8D Solutions LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity and inclusion. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, religion, gender, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other protected categories.
Benefits
Performance & Recognition
Period of Performance (PoP) Bonus Opportunities
Performance-based bonus opportunities tied to contract or organizational performance.
Retention Incentive Benefit Bounty
Receive a payout for unused annual company contributions designated for health insurance premiums and professional training.
Referral Bonus
Earn up to $5,000 for each successful employee referral.
Customer Recognition Letter of Appreciation (LoA) Bonus Opportunities
Bonus opportunities based on customer recognition received through Letters of Appreciation.
Milestone Rewards
Celebrate your career achievements with anniversary awards on your 1st, 5th, 10th, and 20th years of service.
Financial & Retirement Benefits
Profit Sharing
Receive an annual contribution equal to 4% of your W-2 gross earnings into your 401 (k), with immediate vesting.
401(k) Company Match
The company matches your 401 (k) contributions dollar-for-dollar up to 6% of your monthly contribution, with immediate vesting.
Career Development
The company invests in your professional growth through:
  • Annual financial support for professional training and industry certifications.
  • Enhanced financial support for employees actively pursuing a degree at an accredited institution.

Work-Life Balance
Support for a healthy work-life balance includes:
  • Flexible work hours
  • Competitive paid time off (PTO)
  • Company holidays

Health & Wellness Benefits
The company offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support you and your family.
Medical Coverage
Three comprehensive Medical/Rx insurance plan options to meet the unique and individualized benefit needs of our employees
Dental & Vision
  • Comprehensive dental insurance for employees and eligible dependents.
  • Comprehensive vision insurance for employees and eligible dependents.

Income Protection
  • 100% Company-Paid Short-Term Disability Insurance
  • 100% Company-Paid Long-Term Disability Insurance

Life Insurance
  • 100% Company-Paid Basic Term Life Insurance with Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) coverage.
  • Optional employee-paid Supplemental Voluntary Life Insurance.

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