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Telescope Operator Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Smithsonian Institution

Maintenance Worker

Amado, AZ · On-site +1

$29.17 - $34.04/hr

... operating and maintaining related tools and equipment. * Collaborate with scientific, support staff and Ridge Telescopes' staff to troubleshoot and resolve issues across telescope systems and ...

All JobsTelescope Operator JobsTelescope Operator Jobs in Arizona

Telescope Operator information

See Arizona salary details

$9

$26

$81

How much do telescope operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for telescope operator in Arizona is $26.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.24 and $22.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a telescope operator?

A Telescope Operator is responsible for controlling and maintaining telescopes at observatories or research facilities. They ensure the proper functioning of the equipment, assist astronomers in capturing observations, and troubleshoot technical issues. Their duties may also include monitoring environmental conditions, calibrating instruments, and managing data collection. Telescope Operators typically work in collaboration with scientists, engineers, and technicians to support astronomical research. The role requires technical proficiency, attention to detail, and often a background in physics, astronomy, or engineering.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a telescope operator?

To thrive as a Telescope Operator, you need solid knowledge of astronomy, experience with optical and digital imaging systems, and typically a degree in physics, astronomy, or a related field. Familiarity with telescope control software, data acquisition systems, and sometimes certifications in advanced equipment handling are highly valued. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective teamwork are key soft skills in this role. These capabilities are crucial for ensuring precise observations, equipment safety, and successful collaboration with scientists and technical staff.

What are common challenges faced by telescope operators?

Telescope Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining precise alignment of complex equipment, troubleshooting technical issues during observation sessions, and adapting quickly to changing weather conditions that can affect data quality. They may also need to coordinate closely with astronomers and research teams to adjust observation schedules or prioritize specific projects. Flexibility, patience, and technical proficiency help operators manage these obstacles while ensuring that valuable astronomical data is captured accurately and efficiently during narrow observation windows.

How do you become a telescope operator?

To become a telescope operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with technical training in astronomy, optics, or related fields. Experience with telescope equipment, strong attention to detail, and knowledge of safety procedures are also important; some positions may require certification or specialized training.

How much does a telescope operator make?

Telescope operators typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the equipment they operate. Advanced roles or those with specialized skills may offer higher salaries, especially in research or observatory settings.

What are popular job titles related to Telescope Operator jobs in Arizona?

For Telescope Operator jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Telescope Operator jobs in Arizona look for?

The top searched job categories for Telescope Operator jobs in Arizona are:

What are popular job titles related to Telescope Operator jobs in AZ?

For Telescope Operator jobs in AZ, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Telescope Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Telescope Operator job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, and 26% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,828 per year, or $26.8 per hour.

Adaptive Optics Specialist, Large Binocular Telescope Observatory (Multiple Positions)

University of Arizona

Tucson, AZ • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

University Of Arizona rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 68 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

366th of 625 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Adaptive Optics Specialist, Large Binocular Telescope Observatory (Multiple Positions)
Posting Number
req26815
Department
Large Binocular Telescope Obs
Department Website Link
www.lbto.org
Location
Tucson Campus
Address
Tucson, AZ USA
Position Highlights
The University of Arizona's Large Binocular Telescope Observatory invites you to apply to the role of Adaptive Optics Specialist. The Large Binocular Telescope Observatory (LBTO) is among the most powerful optical/infrared telescopes in the world, with two 8.4m diameter mirrors on a single mount, located on the summit of Mount Graham near Safford, Arizona. The Observatory features a sophisticated suite of instruments for optical and infrared imaging and spectroscopy, supported by Adaptive Optics. The LBT is driving discoveries for cosmic sources ranging from exoplanets around nearby stars, to some of the most distant galaxies in the universe. The Observatory is operated by an international consortium of leading research institutions and functions administratively as part of the University of Arizona, with offices in Tucson.
The LBTO has been at the forefront in demonstrating innovative Adaptive Optics (AO) technologies, with its recent call for new instrument concepts attracting further cutting-edge AO proposals. The Observatory seeks an Adaptive Optics Specialist to conduct nighttime operations while assisting in the optimization and ongoing development of the LBTO AO systems. The incumbent will contribute to system troubleshooting and enhancements and support their seamless integration into observatory operations, while developing expanded expertise relevant to LBTO AO systems.
The LBTO Adaptive Optics team is actively working to enhance system robustness while boosting system performance and efficiency. Major ongoing projects include developing a spare Adaptive Secondary Mirror (ASM), upgrading ASM electronics, expanding AO automation, and building new turbulence profilers. The incumbent will have the opportunity to participate in these initiatives.
Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more!
The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs. For more information about working at the University of Arizona and relocations services, please click here.
Duties & Responsibilities
  • Execute nighttime AO operations to ensure successful scientific return.
  • Perform setup and checkout of AO systems, and assist with calibration, characterization, and finetuning to ensure consistent peak performance.
  • Diagnose technical issues and assist with on-site hardware repairs at the telescope facility to minimize system downtime.
  • Generate AO system documentation and develop procedures to improve system reliability and team efficiency.
  • Assist with the development and commissioning of new equipment to transition it seamlessly into daily operations.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Ability and willingness to work flexible hours, including night-time support and periodic weekend, holiday, or on-call shifts.

Physical/Environmental Requirements
  • Ability to travel to the remote observatory site and work safely at an elevation of 10,500 feet.
  • Ability to perform hands-on hardware maintenance at the telescope facility, lifting 30-50 lbs. and working within confined instrument areas.

This job posting reflects the general nature and level of work expected of the selected candidate(s). It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The institution reserves the right to amend or update this description as organizational priorities and institutional needs evolve.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Astronomy, Astrophysics, Optics, Physics, Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent advanced learning attained through experience.
  • Minimum of 3 years of relevant work experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Ability to drive according to the University Fleet Safety Policy.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Hands-on experience in astronomical instrumentation or complex optical systems.

FLSA
Exempt
Full Time/Part Time
Full Time
Number of Hours Worked per Week
40
Job FTE
1.0
Work Calendar
Fiscal
Job Category
Research
Benefits Eligible
Yes - Full Benefits
Rate of Pay
DOE
Compensation Type
salary at 1.0 full-time equivalency (FTE)
Grade
8
Compensation Guidance
The Rate of Pay Field represents the University of Arizona's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. The University considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, and internal equity.
The Grade Range represent a full range of career compensation growth over time. The university offers compensation growth opportunities within its career architecture. To learn more about compensation, please review our Applicant Compensation Guide and our Total Rewards Calculator.
Career Stream and Level
PC2
Job Family
Research & Lab
Job Function
Research
Type of criminal background check required:
Name-based criminal background check (non-security sensitive)
Number of Vacancies
2
Target Hire Date
10/5/2026
Expected End Date
Contact Information for Candidates
Sam Ragland, Ph.D.
Head, Adaptive Optics Group
Research Professor, Large Binocular Telescope Observatory
sragland@lbto.org
Open Date
8/18/2026
Open Until Filled
Yes
Documents Needed to Apply
Resume and Cover Letter
Special Instructions to Applicant
Notice of Availability of the Annual Security and Fire Safety Report
In compliance with the Jeanne Clery Campus Safety Act (Clery Act), each year the University of Arizona releases an Annual Security Report (ASR) for each of the University's campuses.Thesereports disclose information including Clery crime statistics for the previous three calendar years and policies, procedures, and programs the University uses to keep students and employees safe, including how to report crimes or other emergencies and resources for crime victims. As a campus with residential housing facilities, the Main Campus ASR also includes a combined Annual Fire Safety report with information on fire statistics and fire safety systems, policies, and procedures.
Paper copies of the Reports can be obtained by contacting the University Compliance Office at cleryact@arizona.edu.

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