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Cosmology Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

JPL

Scientist II

Pasadena, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology , invites applications for a Staff Scientist position working in cosmology. JPL has an established culture for collaborations and ...

JPL

Scientist IV

Pasadena, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology , invites applications for a Staff Scientist position working in cosmology. JPL has an established culture for collaborations and ...

JPL

Gravitational-Wave Research Scientist III

Pasadena, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Actively collaborate with JPL's Galaxies and/or Cosmology Groups, Caltech's Theoretical Astrophysics Relativity (TAPIR) group, and experts across Caltech's Division of Physics, Mathematics, and ...

Caltech

Mechanical Engineer

Pasadena, CA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... cosmology. This full-time position is based on the Caltech campus in Pasadena, California, but requires occasional travel to Palomar Mountain, San Diego, California, and Maunakea, Hawaii. COO ...

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Cosmology information

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How much do cosmology jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for cosmology in California is $25.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.83 and $30.13 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is cosmology?

A cosmology job typically involves researching the origins, structure, and evolution of the universe. Cosmologists, often working as theoretical or observational physicists, analyze cosmic phenomena like dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background radiation, and the expansion of the universe. They use data from telescopes, satellites, and simulations to test and refine scientific theories. Many work in academia, government agencies, or research institutions, contributing to our understanding of the cosmos.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a cosmologist?

As a Cosmologist, your daily responsibilities often include analyzing astronomical data, developing theoretical models, and conducting simulations to understand the structure and evolution of the universe. You may also collaborate with colleagues on research projects, write scientific papers, and attend seminars or conferences to stay informed about the latest discoveries. Working environments vary, but most Cosmologists are affiliated with universities, research institutions, or governmental agencies and often work as part of interdisciplinary teams. Time may also be spent teaching, mentoring students, or applying for research grants, depending on the role. This variety makes the position both intellectually stimulating and deeply rewarding for those passionate about unraveling the mysteries of the cosmos.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cosmologist?

To thrive as a Cosmologist, you need a strong background in physics, mathematics, and astronomy, typically supported by a Ph.D. in astrophysics or a related field. Proficiency with data analysis software, programming languages (such as Python or MATLAB), and familiarity with telescope instrumentation are essential. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective written and verbal communication skills help distinguish top candidates. These competencies are crucial for advancing scientific understanding, publishing research, and collaborating successfully within the global scientific community.

Does cosmology pay well?

Cosmologists typically earn moderate to high salaries, especially those with advanced degrees and research experience. Salaries vary based on employment sector, such as academia, government, or private industry, and can increase with specialization and seniority.

What are the 5 jobs that students of cosmology can obtain?

Students of cosmology can pursue careers such as research scientists at universities or observatories, astrophysicists working in government agencies, data analysts in space agencies, science communicators or educators, and software developers creating simulation tools. These roles typically require strong analytical skills, proficiency with programming languages, and a solid understanding of physics and astronomy.

What jobs are there in cosmology?

Jobs in cosmology include research positions such as astrophysicist, observational astronomer, and theoretical cosmologist, often requiring advanced degrees like a Ph.D. in physics or astronomy. Other roles involve data analysis, simulation, and instrumentation development in academic, government, or private research institutions. Skills in programming, data modeling, and familiarity with telescopes or space missions are typically essential.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cosmology jobs in California?

The most popular types of Cosmology jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Cosmology jobs in California?

For Cosmology jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Cosmology jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Cosmology jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Cosmology jobs?

Cities in California with the most Cosmology job openings:

Cosmology jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cosmology job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 22% Full Time, and 78% Part Time. Highlights an 3% Physical, and 97% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,653 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

Astrophysics Expert - Cosmology Specialist

Mercor

San Francisco, CA • Remote

$70 - $100/hr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

About the job

Mercor connects elite creative and technical talent with leading AI research labs. Headquartered in San Francisco, our investors include Benchmark, General Catalyst, Peter Thiel, Adam D'Angelo, Larry Summers, and Jack Dorsey.

Position: Astrophysics & Cosmology Expert
Type: Contract
Compensation: $70–$100/hour
Location: Remote
Commitment: 15–20 hours/week

Role Responsibilities

  • Design challenging computational problems to test AI systems using real scientific software.
  • Develop problems requiring strategic planning and multi-step workflows for AI to uncover hidden data.
  • Refine problems through iterative testing against state-of-the-art AI models.
  • Utilize astropy and related tools for cosmological calculations and data analysis.
  • Work independently to enhance problem designs based on feedback.
  • Collaborate asynchronously with teams to ensure problem difficulty is optimal.

Qualifications

Must-Have

  • Graduate-level training in a relevant STEM field (MS, PhD, or equivalent research experience).
  • Proven proficiency with scientific software libraries through research publications or professional work.
  • Strong Python skills for writing problem setups and solution validators.
  • Comfortable in a Linux/terminal environment with remote compute sandboxes.
  • Available for at least 15–20 hours per week.

Preferred

  • Experience across multiple domains or tools.
  • Familiarity with benchmark or evaluation design.
  • Background in scientific teaching or exam/problem-set design.
  • Experience with computational reproducibility and containerized environments.

Application Process (Takes 20–30 mins to complete)

  • Upload resume
  • AI interview based on your resume
  • Submit form

Resources & Support

  • For details about the interview process and platform information, please check: https://talent.docs.mercor.com/welcome
  • For any help or support, reach out to: support@mercor.com

PS: Our team reviews applications daily. Please complete your AI interview and application steps to be considered for this opportunity.