Astronomical Observer

An Astronomical Observer operates, coordinates, and maintains all Observatory astronomical instruments (telescopes, coelostat, and related apparatus) and all astronomical photographic and video equipment, helps communicate information on astronomical observations and techniques to the public, supervises part-time telescope demonstrators, and does related work.

REQUIREMENT(S)/MINIMUM QUALIFICATION(S)

A bachelor’s degree from an accredited four-year college or university with a major in astronomy, physics, optical engineering, or a closely-related field and 2,000 hours of paid or volunteer experience in the design, maintenance, or operation of astronomical telescopes or optical instruments. 

4,000 hours of additional paid or volunteer experience in the design, maintenance, or operation of astronomical telescopes or optical instruments may be substituted on a year-for-year basis up to a maximum of two years of the required education.