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Volunteer Astronomer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

NOAO

Kitt Peak Visitor Center Evening Guide

Tucson, AZ · On-site

A substantial knowledge of observational astronomy, a strong familiarity with the night sky, and ... Ability to work enthusiastically, cooperatively, and patiently with all guests, volunteers and ...

AURA

Kitt Peak Visitor Center Evening Guide

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$17.97/hr

A substantial knowledge of observational astronomy, a strong familiarity with the night sky, and ... Ability to work enthusiastically, cooperatively, and patiently with all guests, volunteers and ...

Rutgers University

Postdoctoral Associate

Piscataway, NJ · On-site

$63K/yr

Competitive retirement benefits, including defined contribution plans and voluntary tax-deferred ... D. in Earth and planetary sciences, geophysics, astrophysics, applied mathematics, or a closely ...

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Volunteer Astronomer information

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How much do volunteer astronomer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for volunteer astronomer in the United States is $19.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $20.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Volunteer Astronomer vs Amateur Astronomer?

AspectVolunteer AstronomerAmateur Astronomer
CredentialsOften no formal certification, but may have astronomy training or degreesNo formal credentials required
Work EnvironmentResearch facilities, observatories, educational eventsPersonal observatories, clubs, public outreach events
Employer/IndustryResearch institutions, planetariums, educational organizationsHobbyist groups, astronomy clubs, individual projects

Volunteer Astronomers typically work with organizations on research or educational projects, often requiring some background in astronomy. Amateur Astronomers pursue astronomy as a hobby, focusing on personal observation and community activities. While both share a passion for astronomy, Volunteer Astronomers usually engage in more structured, organization-based activities, whereas Amateur Astronomers enjoy flexible, self-directed exploration.

How do you become a volunteer astronomer?

To become a volunteer astronomer, individuals typically need a strong interest in astronomy, basic knowledge of celestial objects, and sometimes relevant skills such as data analysis or telescope operation. Many organizations offer training or orientation sessions, and volunteers often participate in activities like public outreach, data collection, or assisting with observations, often requiring a background check or commitment to scheduled events.

What jobs can I get as a volunteer astronomer?

Volunteer astronomers often take on roles such as assisting with public outreach, conducting educational programs, helping with telescope operations, and supporting research projects at observatories or science centers. These positions typically require knowledge of astronomy, good communication skills, and sometimes training in telescope use or data collection.
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Cities with the most Volunteer Astronomer job openings:

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The most popular types of Astronomer jobs are:

What states have the most Volunteer Astronomer jobs?

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Volunteer Astronomer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Volunteer Astronomer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, and 12% Part Time. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,804 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

Adjunct Instructor - Astronomy

Central Carolina Technical College

Sumter, SC • On-site

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Salary: Depends on Qualifications
Location : Sumter, S.C
Job Type: Part-Time Faculty
Job Number: 202400039
Division: Academic Affairs
Department: Science Department
Opening Date: 01/30/2025
Closing Date: Continuous
Job Responsibilities
Serves as an adjunct instructor for Astronomy. Classes taught include Solar System Astronomy (AST 101) and Stellar Astronomy (AST 102). All Astronomy courses will be taught online. (Fall, Spring, and Summer).
Minimum and Additional Requirements
Master's degree in the teaching discipline; or Master's degree with 18 graduate semester hours in the teaching discipline.
Benefits for State Employees
The state of South Carolina offers eligible employees generous benefits, including health and dental insurance; retirement and savings plan options; and paid vacation and sick leave. Plus, work-life balance programs such as telecommuting and flexible work schedules are available to employees of some state agencies.
Insurance Benefits
Eligible employees may enroll in , which includes prescription coverage and wellness benefits. include dental, vision, term life insurance, long term disability and flexible spending accounts for health and child care expenses.
Retirement Benefits
State employees are also offered , including defined benefit and defined contribution plans. Additionally, eligible employees may elect to participate in the , which is a voluntary, supplemental retirement savings plan offering 401(k) and 457 plan options.
Workplace Benefits
State employees may also be eligible for , including tuition assistance; holiday, annual and sick leave; and discounts on purchases, travel and more.
Note: The benefits above are available to most state employees, with the exception of those in temporary positions. Employees in temporary grant and time-limited positions may be eligible for all, some or none of these benefits as benefits are associated with each position type. For these positions, contact the hiring agency to determine what benefits may be available.
01
Which best describes your level of education?
  • Less than High School
  • High School Diploma
  • Some College
  • Associate's Degree
  • Bachelor's Degree
  • Master's Degree or Above

02
How many years of related experience do you have?
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  • Less than 1 year of experience
  • 1-2 years
  • 3-4 years
  • 5-6 years
  • 7-8 years
  • 9 or more years

03
Describe your related experience.
04
Do you have a valid Driver's License?
  • Yes
  • No

05
Please tell us where you FIRST saw this job vacancy.
  • Central Carolina Website (cctech.edu)
  • South Carolina Website (sc.gov)
  • Job Posting at CCTC
  • Indeed
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06
In order to be considered for this position, you must attach a copy of your unofficial transcripts to your application. Have you attached your transcripts?
  • Yes
  • No

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