ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Full Time Planetary Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Pennsylvania State University

$114K/yr

... the Planetary Science Center. Penn State is heavily involved with the development and ... BENEFITS Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to ...

Caltech

Mechanical Engineer

Pasadena, CA · On-site

... of planetary science, astronomy, and cosmology. This full-time position is based on the Caltech campus in Pasadena, California, but requires occasional travel to Palomar Mountain, San Diego ...

Astrolab

Staff Power Electrical Engineer

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$170K - $226K/yr

Avionics Employment Type: Full Time Location: Hawthorne, California Reporting To: Jake Peery ... Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or equivalent. * 10+ ...

Astrolab

Principal FPGA Engineer

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$203K - $243K/yr

Avionics Employment Type: Full Time Location: Hawthorne, California Reporting To: Jake Peery ... Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or equivalent * 15 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsFull Time Planetary Scientist Jobs

Full Time Planetary Scientist information

See salary details

$37K

$91K

$160K

How much do full time planetary scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for full time planetary scientist in the United States is $90,961.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,000.00 and $100,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Full Time Planetary Scientist vs Geoscientist?

AspectFull Time Planetary ScientistGeoscientist
Required CredentialsAdvanced degrees in planetary science, geology, or astronomyBachelor's or master's in geology, geophysics, or related fields
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, space agencies, planetary missionsFieldwork, labs, environmental consulting
Employer & IndustryNASA, planetary research institutes, space agenciesUniversities, government agencies, environmental firms
Common Search/ComparisonYesNo

Full Time Planetary Scientists focus on planetary bodies, space missions, and extraterrestrial geology, often working in research and space agencies. Geoscientists study Earth's processes, often in field settings. While both roles require geology-related credentials, planetary scientists specialize in space environments, making them distinct in industry and work environment.

What does a Full Time Planetary Scientist do?

A Full Time Planetary Scientist studies planets, moons, and other celestial bodies in our solar system and beyond. Their work involves analyzing data from telescopes, satellites, and space missions to understand planetary atmospheres, surfaces, geology, and potential for life. They often publish research, collaborate with international space agencies, and may participate in planetary mission planning. Planetary scientists also teach, mentor students, and contribute to public outreach about space science.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Full Time Planetary Scientists typically do not earn $2000 a day; such high daily rates are more common in specialized consulting roles, executive positions, or freelance experts in high-demand fields. Most salaried scientific roles pay annual salaries, but consulting or contract work in scientific or technical fields can sometimes reach or exceed this daily rate depending on experience and project scope.

How much does a Planetary Scientist get paid?

A planetary scientist's salary typically ranges from $70,000 to $130,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and the employer. Senior or specialized roles in research institutions or government agencies may offer higher compensation, often supplemented with benefits and research funding.

What jobs can I get with a planetary science degree?

A planetary science degree prepares individuals for careers such as planetary scientist, research scientist, or planetary geologist, often working for government agencies, research institutions, or space agencies. These roles typically involve data analysis, laboratory work, and field studies, and may require skills in remote sensing, programming, and scientific instrumentation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Full Time Planetary Scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Full Time Planetary Scientist, you need a strong background in planetary science, geology, or physics, typically supported by a Ph.D. and research experience. Proficiency with data analysis software, remote sensing tools, and simulation models is commonly required, along with experience using programming languages such as Python or MATLAB. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and collaborative communication skills distinguish top performers in this field. These skills are essential for conducting innovative research, interpreting complex planetary data, and contributing effectively to interdisciplinary scientific teams.

What are some common challenges faced by Full Time Planetary Scientists in their research projects?

Full Time Planetary Scientists often encounter challenges such as limited access to direct planetary samples, the need to interpret vast amounts of remote sensing data, and the complexities of collaborating across international teams and disciplines. Adapting to rapidly evolving technology and managing long-term projects—sometimes tied to space missions with strict timelines—can also be demanding. Overcoming these challenges requires strong problem-solving skills, adaptability, and effective communication with engineers, data analysts, and fellow scientists.

Is there a high demand for astrophysicists?

The demand for astrophysicists, including planetary scientists, is generally moderate and often depends on government research agencies, universities, and space agencies. Job growth is steady but limited compared to other STEM fields, and positions often require advanced degrees and specialized skills in data analysis and modeling. Opportunities may be more available in research, academia, and space exploration organizations.
More about Full Time Planetary Scientist jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Planetary Scientist jobs? The most popular types of Planetary Scientist jobs are:
What states have the most Full Time Planetary Scientist jobs? States with the most job openings for Full Time Planetary Scientist jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Full Time Planetary Scientist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Full Time Planetary Scientist jobs are:
Full Time Planetary Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Full Time Planetary Scientist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% As Needed. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,961 per year, or $43.7 per hour.
Postdoctoral Researcher - Protoplanetary Disks and Planet Formation

Postdoctoral Researcher - Protoplanetary Disks and Planet Formation

The Pennsylvania State University

On-site, Remote

$114K/yr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location.For additional information on remote work at Penn State, seeNotice to Out of State Applicants.

This is a term position; length of the term will be discussed during the interview process. Continuation past the termlengthdiscussed willbebasedonuniversityneed,performance,and/oravailabilityoffunding.

POSITION SPECIFICS

Position Specifics

The Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics at Penn State invites applications for a postdoctoral researcher to work with Professor J. J. Zanazzi and collaborators. We are looking for a postdoctoral researcher to study planet formation during the protoplanetary disk phase. These investigations will entail hydrodynamic simulations and first-principles calculations of how embedded planets, binary companions, and/or streamers affect protoplanetary disks, to make theoretical predictions that can be tested by observations. In addition, the postdoc will be encouraged to develop their own research program in collaboration with, and in parallel to, Prof. Zanazzi.

Penn State hosts a vibrant community of scientists working on many aspects of exoplanetary astrophysics, including the Center for Exoplanets and Habitable Worlds, the Consortium for Planetary and Exoplanetary Science and Technology, the Astrobiology Research Center, the Extraterrestrial Intelligence Center, and the Planetary Science Center. Penn State is heavily involved with the development and implementation of the Habitable Zone Planet Finder and the NEID Spectrograph, with institutional access to the Hobby Eberly Telescope and WIYN telescope. Computing access is supplied by the Penn State Institute for Computational and Data Sciences.

Education and Experience

A PhD in Physics, Astronomy, or a closely related field is required. Experience with hydrodynamical simulations of protoplanetary disks, and/or post-processing to generate mock observations from continuum, line, and/or scattered light emission, would be a plus.

Additional Information

Applications must be submitted electronically and include a cover letter, statement of research interests, a CV, and a list of publications. In addition, please arrange for three professional reference letters to be sent to jxz224@psu.edu.

Applications received by January 15, 2026, will receive full consideration, but will be accepted until the position is filled. The search is expected to end by March 15, 2026. The expected start date is August 15, 2026, but is negotiable. Questions regarding the application process can be directed to J. J. Zanazzi at jxz224@psu.edu.

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

BENEFITS

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being.

For more detailed information, please visit ourBenefits Page.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission.

Federal Contractors Labor Law Poster

PA State Labor Law Poster

Penn State Policies

Copyright Information

Hotlines

Pennsylvania State University logo

About Pennsylvania State University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Pennsylvania State University, often referred to as Penn State, is a major, public, research-intensive university located in University Park, PA, US. This esteemed institution serves as an important player within the education industry, offering a plethora of academic programs across various disciplines. The university was founded in 1855 with the mission to provide quality education, advanced research, and service to society. Penn State holds firmly to values of integrity, respect, and excellence, fostering a diverse and inclusive community. The university is renowned for its research productivity and its high-ranking programs in areas like engineering, business, and education. One notable achievement of the institution is its designation as a "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity," demonstrating its commitment to scholarship and discovery.

Industry

Education

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

University Park, PA, US

Year founded

1855

Social media

FacebookTwitter

View All Pennsylvania State University Jobs

Apply