Astronomers

SOC: 19-2011 O*NET: 19-2011.00
Median Salary
$132,170
per year
Job Growth
➑️ 2.2%
Average (2024-2034)
Annual Openings
0.1
projected jobs/year
Education Level
Bachelor's degree plus work experience, or graduate degree
Job Zone 5

Observe, research, and interpret astronomical phenomena to increase basic knowledge or apply such information to practical problems.

Overview

Observe, research, and interpret astronomical phenomena to increase basic knowledge or apply such information to practical problems.

Compensation & Benefits

Salary Distribution by Percentile

Understanding where you might fall in the salary range based on experience and location.

10th
$79,302
25th
$105,736
50th (Median)
$132,170
75th
$158,604
90th
$198,255

Percentile Explained: If you're in the 75th percentile, you earn more than 75% of workers in this occupation. Entry-level positions typically fall in the 10th-25th percentile range, while experienced professionals often reach the 75th-90th percentile.

Typical Benefits Package

Health & Wellness

  • βœ“Health Insurance
  • βœ“Dental Insurance
  • βœ“Vision Insurance
  • βœ“Mental Health Support
  • βœ“Wellness Programs

Financial Benefits

  • βœ“401(k) Retirement Plan
  • βœ“Employer Match (typically 3-6%)
  • βœ“Profit Sharing
  • βœ“Stock Options
  • βœ“Performance Bonuses

Work-Life Balance

  • βœ“Paid Time Off (15-25 days)
  • βœ“Paid Sick Leave
  • βœ“Flexible Work Arrangements
  • βœ“Remote Work Options
  • βœ“Parental Leave

Professional Development

  • βœ“Tuition Reimbursement
  • βœ“Professional Certifications
  • βœ“Conference Attendance
  • βœ“Training Programs
  • βœ“Mentorship Opportunities

Note: Benefits vary widely by employer, company size, and location. Large corporations and tech companies often offer more comprehensive packages, while small businesses may offer fewer benefits but more flexibility. Always review the complete compensation package, not just base salary.

Job Market Intelligence

Job Market Intelligence

Medium Demand
Market demand
Medium Risk
Automation risk

Current Employment

National Employment:1,800

10-Year Outlook

Growth Rate:+2.2%
Annual Openings:100

Employment Projections

2024 (Current)1,800
Current
2034 (Projected)1,800
+2.2%
0
Employment Change
+2.2%
Growth Rate
10
Year Projection

Growth Category: As fast as average

Key Growth Factors

  • β€’Average growth expected

Top Skills

βœ“
Science
Science
βœ“
Reading Comprehension
Reading Comprehension
βœ“
Critical Thinking
Critical Thinking
βœ“
Mathematics
Mathematics
βœ“
Writing
Writing
βœ“
Active Learning
Active Learning
βœ“
Active Listening
Active Listening
βœ“
Speaking
Speaking
βœ“
Learning Strategies
Learning Strategies
βœ“
Judgment and Decision Making
Judgment and Decision Making

Key Knowledge Areas

βœ“
Physics
βœ“
Mathematics
βœ“
Computers and Electronics
βœ“
English Language
βœ“
Education and Training
βœ“
Engineering and Technology
βœ“
Chemistry

Education & Training

Education Required

Bachelor's degree plus work experience, or graduate degree

Experience Required

Extensive skill, knowledge, and experience needed

Job Training

Extensive training and work experience required