We used the latest data and insights to identify the Highest Paying Astronomy Jobs so that you can learn and earn more.
The highest paying astronomy jobs come with a fair level of responsibility and hard work. But if you enjoy your work and love the world you’re exploring; you’ll do well in any position.
Our findings have been drawn from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, various career platforms, and other major sources. I hope you find this information useful as you prepare for your career.
Let’s dive into the highest-paying astronomy jobs.
Here is a video summary based on this article
Table of Contents
#10. Astronomy Teachers
How much do they get paid?
- Source: ZipRecruiter
- Low Range: $15,500 per year
- High Range: $59,500 per year
- Median Pay: $33,425 per yearÂ
What do they do?
Astronomy teachers are an essential part of the education system. They work with students to help them understand the exciting things that happen in the sky.
What degrees and skills are usually required?
These teachers usually require at least an undergraduate astronomy degree or bachelor’s degree in education, though some states require even more advanced degrees.
Many employers also look for experience teaching astronomy classes or working with children in some capacity, such as tutoring or volunteering at a local school.
Who’s hiring for these jobs?
Science teachers typically work at public schools or private schools (such as religion-affiliated schools). They can also work at other educational institutions, such as colleges or universities.
What’s the best way to get this job?
If you want to be a science teacher and don’t have any experience yet, it’s best to get your bachelor’s degree first. With your certification, you can then interview for open positions in schools.
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What’s it like to be an astronomy teacher?
#9. Astronomers
How much do they get paid?
- Source: ZipRecruiter
- Low Range: $17,000 per year
- High Range: $122,000 per year
- Median Pay: $51,826 per yearÂ
What do they do?
Astronomers conduct scientific research about the universe and its celestial bodies. They use their knowledge of mathematics and physics to calculate distances between stars and planets.
These scientists provide information about the planets, stars, and galaxies to their employers and the public.Â
What degrees and skills are usually required?
Most employers prefer professional astronomers with a master’s degree for most astronomy jobs. However, some employers will hire candidates with a bachelor’s degree if they have extensive experience in observational astronomy.
Who’s hiring for these jobs?
These observational astronomers work in various settings, from universities to observatories to space agencies.
What’s the best way to get this job?
To become an astronomer, you first need an undergraduate degree in physics or astronomy (or some other science-related field). You can then pursue graduate school—either immediately after college or several years later—and study astronomy at an accredited university.
With experience in astronomy, you can interview for this position.
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What’s it like to be an astronomer?
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#8. Technical Writers
How much do they get paid?
- Source: Salary.com
- Low Range: $47,103 per year
- High Range: $72,136 per year
- Median Pay: $59,564 per yearÂ
What do they do?
Astronomy writers are responsible for writing scientific articles about all aspects of the world’s space missions, including current events and past achievements.
What degrees and skills are usually required?
Most technical writers have a degree in astronomy or physics, but it’s not always required. Other degrees may include English or journalism. They also need strong technical writing and communication skills because they need to convey complex ideas and concepts to their audience.
Who’s hiring for these jobs?
Technical writers work for science museums, amusement parks, and planetariums. These professionals also work in media outlets where they are in charge of key industry publications.
What’s the best way to get this job?
To get an astronomy writer job, you should start by applying for internships at museums or planetariums, where you can learn more about your field of interest. You can also take courses that teach you how to write about space topics in an engaging way.
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What’s it like to be a technical writer?
#7. Climatologist
How much do they get paid?
- Source: Payscale
- Low Range: $50,000 per year
- High Range: $97,000 per year
- Median Pay: $70,000 per yearÂ
What do they do?
Climatologists study weather and climate. They use this information to understand and predict long-term weather patterns. These climate scientists also research how climate change is affecting the planet.
What degrees and skills are usually required?
This field needs at least a bachelor’s degree in meteorology or atmospheric science from an accredited university program. However, some employers may require a master’s degree if you want to advance into management positions within your company.Â
Who’s hiring for these jobs?
Climatologists work for government agencies, universities, environmental consulting firms, private industry, and even as consultants for businesses.
What’s the best way to get this job?
The fastest way to get this job is through education and experience in the field. You can gain experience by working on projects related to climate change or environmental issues such as pollution control or natural resource management.
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What’s it like to be a climatologist?
#6. Aeronautical Engineer
How much do they get paid?
- Source: Payscale
- Low Range: $66,000 per year
- High Range: $127,000 per year
- Median Pay: $82,958 per yearÂ
What do they do?
Aeronautical engineers are responsible for designing, constructing, and testing aircraft.
What degrees and skills are usually required?
These engineers have at least a bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering or another related field. Some employers hire candidates with at least five years of experience working in the field.
Who’s hiring for these jobs?
Aeronautical engineers work in a variety of industries, including:Â
- Aerospace and defense.
- Commercial aviation.
- Government services.
- Private industry.
The national average salary for these engineers is $82,958 per year.
What’s the best way to get this job?
One way to get this job is by earning your bachelor’s degree in aeronautical engineering from an accredited university program.
You can then work as an intern to gain the experience required by most employers.
What’s it like to be an aeronautical engineer?
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#5. Astronomy Curators
How much do they get paid?
- Source: Glassdoor
- Low Range: $54,000 per year
- High Range: $163,000 per year
- Median Pay: $91,830 per yearÂ
What do they do?
Astronomy curators work in museums and planetariums to ensure that the exhibits are up to date, accurate, and engaging. They also give tours, write content for brochures and websites, and help people learn more about astronomy.
What degrees and skills are usually required?
A bachelor’s degree in astronomy or physics is the minimum requirement for this job. Astronomy curators also need to be organized, detail-oriented, and able to think critically about the science behind the exhibits they’re working on.
Some employers also require experience working in a museum or planetarium setting, but this may not be necessary if you already have your degree.
Who’s hiring for these jobs?
Curators often work at universities or museums, but they may also work at observatories or planetariums.
What’s the best way to get this job?
To get this job, you should apply directly through your local museum or planetarium website. You can do this online, so you don’t need to go anywhere.
What’s it like to be a curator?
#4. Astrophysicist
How much do they get paid?
- Source: Payscale
- Low Range: $50,000 per year
- High Range: $125,000 per year
- Median Pay: $95,169 per yearÂ
What do they do?
Astrophysicists are scientists who study the physical processes that make up space. They may study the properties of planets, stars, galaxies, or other objects in space.
What degrees and skills are usually required?
Astrophysicists typically have a degree in chemistry, astronomy, or physics courses, but many also have a master’s or doctorate in their field.
Who’s hiring for these jobs?
These scientists work at colleges and universities, observatories, research centers, government agencies, and private companies.
What’s the best way to get this job?
One way to get this job is to first earn a relevant bachelor’s degree first—in chemistry, physics, or astronomy—then apply to graduate school and complete your master’s or doctoral education.
You can then enroll in internships to gain experience before applying for positions in this field.
What’s it like to be an astrophysicist?
#3. Astronomy Research Scientist
How much do they get paid?
- Source: Glassdoor
- Low Range: $94,831 per year
- High Range: $157,000 per year
- Median Pay: $121,421 per yearÂ
What do they do?
These scientists analyze and interpret data from telescopes, satellites, and other instruments to study the universe.
What degrees and skills are usually required?
To get this job, you need a degree in physics or astronomy, plus experience in research. You will also need good communication skills, problem-solving skills, creativity, and good math skills.
Who’s hiring for these jobs?
Astronomy research scientists usually work at universities or government agencies. They may also work in private research facilities.
What’s the best way to get this job?
One of the fastest ways to get this job is by getting an advanced degree in physics or astronomy. You may then begin working as an intern or volunteer at an observatory. This program will give you more experience and help you stand out from other applicants at the time when you apply for jobs.
What’s it like to be a research scientist?
#2. Meteorologist
How much do they get paid?
- Source: Salary.com
- Low Range: $58,145 per year
- High Range: $150,272 per year
- Median Pay: $102,833 per yearÂ
What do they do?
Meteorologists are scientists who conduct research about the atmosphere. They help us understand what we can expect from our weather in the future.
What degrees and skills are usually required?
A bachelor’s degree in meteorology or atmospheric science is the usual requirement for this position. Through coursework, meteorologists also learn about climate change, air quality issues, and air pollution prevention strategies.
Some employers may require that candidates pass a certification exam after completing their education requirements. This will show that they have the necessary knowledge and skills for the job.
Who’s hiring for these jobs?
Meteorologists work for:
- Aviation industries.
- Government agencies.
- Agriculture industries.
- Radio stations.
- Television stations.
- Newspapers.
What’s the best way to get this job?
One of the best ways to get this job is by networking with people already working in this field. They may be able to give you advice on how best to apply or even help you find an entry-level position right away.
What does it take to become a meteorologist?
#1. Associate Professor
How much do they get paid?
- Source: Glassdoor
- Low Range: $69,000 per year
- High Range: $323,000 per year
- Median Pay: $146,119 per yearÂ
What do they do?
Associate professors teach astronomy classes, direct their students’ research, and may also be involved in the hiring of new faculty members. They may also create scientific presentations to teach students about space exploration, the solar system, and related topics.
What degrees and skills are usually required?
The associate astronomy professor position generally requires a Ph.D. in astronomy or physics. The most common degree is a doctorate, but some schools hire master’s degree holders as well.
Who’s hiring for these jobs?
These associate professors typically work at universities but may also find employment at other educational institutions or research centers.
What’s the best way to get this job?
Once you have the proper certification, you can get this job by applying directly to your desired employer.
What’s it like to be an associate professor?
Conclusion
The world of astronomy encompasses a wide range of disciplines associated with every part of our natural environment. So if you are interested in pursuing a career in astronomy, why not choose something interesting like research assistants, climate scientists, or even science journalists?Â
So there you have it—the highest-paying astronomy jobs. We hope this information helps you choose a good career path for yourself.
