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Astronaut Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

As a SONIC Carhop, you are part of an elite group, filling a role offered by no other company Being a Carhop (aka super cool food server) is like being an astronaut, only you work in a drive-in ...

Astronaut information

See Wisconsin salary details

$8

$24

$56

How much do astronaut jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for astronaut in Wisconsin is $24.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.83 and $28.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an astronaut?

Astronauts are highly trained professionals who travel into space to conduct scientific research, operate spacecraft, and perform experiments that help us better understand our universe. They often have backgrounds in engineering, science, medicine, or the military, and undergo rigorous physical and technical training. Astronauts work for space agencies such as NASA, ESA, or private companies, and may spend months preparing for missions that can last from a few days to over a year. Their work advances technology and science, and helps pave the way for future space exploration.

What are some common challenges astronauts face when working on long-duration space missions?

Astronauts on long-duration space missions often encounter challenges such as adapting to microgravity, which can affect muscle strength and bone density. They must also manage the psychological impacts of isolation, confinement, and being away from family for extended periods. Effective teamwork and communication are essential, as astronauts collaborate closely with international crew members and mission control. Additionally, they must be prepared to handle technical malfunctions and medical emergencies in a resource-limited environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an astronaut, and why are they important?

Astronauts require a strong educational background in science, engineering, or mathematics, along with relevant professional experience and excellent physical fitness. Familiarity with advanced simulators, spacecraft systems, robotics, and often certifications like scuba diving or piloting are important technical assets. Exceptional teamwork, problem-solving, and communication skills help astronauts adapt to high-pressure, isolated environments. These abilities are vital for ensuring mission safety, successful collaboration, and the effective execution of complex tasks in space.

What is the difference between Astronaut vs Cosmonaut?

AspectAstronautCosmonaut
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in engineering, science, or math; military or civilian pilot experience often preferredSimilar educational background; often military pilots or scientists
Work EnvironmentSpacecraft, space stations, training facilitiesSpacecraft, space stations, training facilities
Employer & IndustryNASA, private space companiesRoscosmos, Russian space agencies
Search & Comparison IntentCommonly compared for international space careersOften compared with astronauts in global space industry contexts

Both astronauts and cosmonauts undergo rigorous training, hold similar educational credentials, and work in space-related environments. The main difference lies in their national affiliations and space agencies—astronauts are primarily from NASA and international agencies, while cosmonauts are from Russia's Roscosmos. Despite differences in terminology, their roles and qualifications are quite comparable.

Do astronauts get paid a salary?

Yes, astronauts receive a salary that is determined by their government agency or employer, such as NASA or private space companies. Their compensation is comparable to other highly skilled professionals and often includes benefits, training, and allowances for their specialized work and training schedules.

Is it hard to get a job as an astronaut?

Becoming an astronaut is highly competitive, requiring a strong background in science, engineering, or related fields, along with relevant experience such as military service or advanced degrees. Candidates must also pass rigorous physical and psychological tests, and the selection process can take years due to limited openings and strict criteria.

What are the jobs of astronauts?

Astronauts perform tasks such as conducting scientific experiments, operating spacecraft and equipment, maintaining and repairing systems, and supporting space missions. They also participate in training, physical fitness, and safety procedures to ensure mission success and crew safety in the space environment.

What job categories do people searching Astronaut jobs in Wisconsin look for?

The top searched job categories for Astronaut jobs in Wisconsin are:

Infographic showing various Astronaut job openings in Wisconsin as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $50,031 per year, or $24.1 per hour.

Carhop or Skating Carhop

Sonic

West Milwaukee, WI

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


Sonic Drive-In rating

4.7

Company rating: 4.7 out of 10

Based on 1,631 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

80th of 107 rated fast food restaurants


Job description

Looking for a way to apply that boundless enthusiasm you wake up with every morning. We can help. At SONIC, you get great pay, flexible hours and a cool uniformwhile doing the job you love.
As a SONIC Carhop, you are part of an elite group, filling a role offered by no other company

Being a Carhop (aka super cool food server) is like being an astronaut, only you work in a drive-in restaurant instead of space, and the foods way better. Youre responsible for serving and delivering that food safely and efficiently, ensuring our guests have a truly out-of-this-world experience at SONIC Drive-In restaurants.
SONIC Carhop/Skating Carhop server duties may include:
Ensuring that all restaurant menu items meet operational standards
Greeting all guests in a polite and friendly manner with a smile
Making accurate change quickly and efficiently for restaurant guests
Carrying and balancing a tray weighing up to 25 pounds
Serving our guests in a timely manner
Clearing trays from our guests cars
Depending upon the employment practices of the individual SONIC Drive-In restaurant owner, some SONIC Drive-Ins employ Skating Carhop servers:
Skating Carhop servers are unique to the SONIC Drive-In restaurant brand and bring a special surprise and delight element to the guest experience.


Skating Carhop servers must complete the SONIC Skating Training Program.
Upon successful completion of this program, Skating Carhops perform the above duties while roller skating.
In the words of one of our Skating Carhop servers:
"From where I'm skating, working at SONIC is a blast and the tips are great too!"
Carhop/Skating Carhop server requirements:
Ability to work irregular hours, nights, weekends and holidays
Ability to be flexible in all situations based on business need
Effective communication skills; basic math and reading skills
Willingness to abide by the appearance, uniform and hygiene standards at SONIC
Skating Carhop server requirements:
Successfully completed assigned SONIC Skating Training Program
Roller skate proficiently and frequently on various surfaces when delivering food
Ability to continuously stand, balance and carry a tray, and sweep while roller skating
General knowledge and understanding of the restaurant industry or retail operations preferred, but not required
Additional Carhop/Skating Carhop server Qualifications
Friendly and smiling faces that enjoy providing courteous service to our restaurant guests!
A willingness to cross-train on all the stations it never gets boring here!
A team player keen on cleanliness and safety.
Sure, classic cars and vintage threads may be things of the past, but the Sonic Drive-In experience will always be groovy, right on, awesome, wicked, fab, the bees knees, cruisin

. . you get the picture.

Its downright sensational!.
All thats missing is you, so APPLY TODAY!
SONIC and its independent franchise owners are Equal Opportunity Employers.


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