The chapter addresses the relationship between science, labor, and working conditions. It points out that knowledge production in astronomy has historically depended on a hierarchical labor structure separating principal investigators, technicians, and administrative staff, relegating technical and manual work, such as mechanics and assistants, to invisible roles. In the Chilean context, developing a working class in the nitrate and railway industry in the nineteenth century promoted the expansion of technical knowledge. The lack of skilled labor led to ‘on-the-job’ training and collaboration with foreign technicians, albeit with conflicts. Integrating a working class into science reflected an effort to achieve a culture of progress and technical knowledge. This established a basis for professionalization in astronomy and other sciences in Chile, with the state playing a crucial role in the training of technicians and the modernization of the industry.