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Heliophysics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Desired skills • Emerging leader in the Astrophysics or Heliophysics Science technical professional community, based on publications, academic interfaces, and professional contacts, capable of ...

We particularly seek applicants with experience in astrophysics, with (E)UV spectroscopy and imaging, astrophysics or heliophysics data systems, or visible/near-IR spectropolarimetry. Applicants ...

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Heliophysics information

What is heliophysics?

Heliophysics is the scientific study of the Sun and its interactions with the Earth and the rest of the solar system. This field examines solar phenomena like solar flares and solar wind, as well as their effects on space weather and planetary environments. Heliophysicists use observations from spacecraft, satellites, and ground-based instruments to better understand how solar activity impacts technologies, communications, and even life on Earth. The research in heliophysics is crucial for predicting space weather and protecting satellites, astronauts, and power grids from solar storms.

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

To thrive as a Heliophysicist, you need a deep understanding of physics, mathematics, and space science, typically supported by an advanced degree (PhD) in physics, astronomy, or a related field. Experience with data analysis software (such as IDL, Python, or MATLAB), remote sensing instruments, and familiarity with NASA or ESA data systems are commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and collaboration skills are vital for interpreting data and contributing to multidisciplinary research. These skills ensure effective investigation of solar phenomena and their impacts on space weather, which are crucial for protecting technology and advancing scientific knowledge.

What is the difference between Heliophysics vs Space Weather Scientist?

AspectHeliophysicsSpace Weather Scientist
Required CredentialsPhysics or space science degree, often with a focus on solar and space plasma physicsPhysics, space science, or atmospheric science degree, with emphasis on space weather phenomena
Work EnvironmentResearch institutions, universities, NASA, NOAA, space agenciesOperational centers, government agencies, research institutions, space agencies
Industry UsageAcademic research, space missions, scientific publicationsMonitoring and forecasting space weather impacts on technology and infrastructure

Heliophysics involves studying the Sun and its effects on the solar system, including plasma physics and solar phenomena. Space Weather Scientists focus on predicting and mitigating space weather impacts on satellites, power grids, and communication systems. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds and often collaborate, heliophysics is more research-oriented, whereas space weather science emphasizes practical forecasting and operational applications.

What are some common challenges faced by heliophysics researchers when working in interdisciplinary teams?

Heliophysics researchers often collaborate with professionals from fields like atmospheric science, data analytics, and computer modeling. One common challenge is effectively communicating complex solar and space weather concepts to colleagues with different scientific backgrounds. Additionally, integrating diverse data sets and methodologies requires flexibility and strong organizational skills. Overcoming these obstacles is essential for successful joint research projects and can lead to innovative discoveries in understanding the Sun-Earth connection.
More about Heliophysics jobs
What cities are hiring for Heliophysics jobs? Cities with the most Heliophysics job openings:
What states have the most Heliophysics jobs? States with the most job openings for Heliophysics jobs include:
Infographic showing various Heliophysics job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 11% Contract. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Remote job distribution.
Instrument Scientist

Instrument Scientist

Lockheed Martin

Palo Alto, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


Lockheed Martin rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 378 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

30th of 59 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Job Description
The Lockheed Martin Solar and Astrophysics Laboratory (LMSAL) has an immediate opening for a Senior Staff Research Scientist to support existing science missions and to conduct research using the rich datasets of current and upcoming missions. Current missions at LMSAL include the Multislit Solar Explorer (MUSE) and Extreme Ultraviolet Solar Telescope (EUVST), the Interface Region Imaging Spectrograph (IRIS), and the Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO/AIA and HMI). LMSAL is a department of the Lockheed Martin Advanced Technology Center (ATC) in Palo Alto, CA.
The ATC is the research lab for LM Space, and the SS&I directorate within the ATC pursues fundamental space science research and the development of prototype flight instruments and payloads. The successful candidate will play a key scientific and/or technical role and will grow into a leadership role in Space Science as part of these teams.
Duties include support for the science objectives for our current and future programs such as; acting as deputy or science PI for new and existing missions; assisting in executing and development of plans for science operations; and pursuing an active research program in related topics. The Research Scientist is encouraged to conduct supporting research and/or to seek external funding in order to pursue research commensurate with their training and expertise.
Applicants are expected to possess a PhD in astrophysics or a similar scientific discipline. Applicants for this position must possess excellent scientific skills with experience working with ground based and/or NASA flight programs. We particularly seek applicants with experience in astrophysics, with (E)UV spectroscopy and imaging, astrophysics or heliophysics data systems, or visible/near-IR spectropolarimetry. Applicants should possess strong attention to detail and excellent communication skills. U.S. citizenship or permanent residence status is required. Some domestic and international travel will be required.
Basic Qualifications
• PhD degree in astrophysics or related science/engineering discipline, preferably with application relevant to astrophysics or heliophysics Science Focus areas.
• Experience working in multi-disciplinary technical teams.
• Experience with the execution of ground-based or space-based science research programs.
• Experience using data from and operation of astronomical and/or solar spectrographs, imagers, or analogous instrumentation, or with numerical modeling of astronomical and/or solar phenomena observed by such instruments.
• US citizenship or Green Card holder.
Desired skills
• Emerging leader in the Astrophysics or Heliophysics Science technical professional community, based on publications, academic interfaces, and professional contacts, capable of being a Principal Investigator of Co-Investigator on NASA or NSF science contracts and/or missions.
• Mission experience and good technical familiarity with astrophysics and/or heliophysics data systems and a research background as demonstrated by publications, grants or awards.
EEO
Lockheed Martin is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified candidates will be considered without regard to legally protected characteristics.
The application window will close in 90 days; applicants are encouraged to apply within 5 - 30 days of the requisition posting date in order to receive optimal consideration.
*
At Lockheed Martin, we use our passion for purposeful innovation to help keep people safe and solve the world's most complex challenges. Our people are some of the greatest minds in the industry and truly make Lockheed Martin a great place to work.
With our employees as our priority, we provide diverse career opportunities designed to propel, develop, and boost agility. Our flexible schedules, competitive pay, and comprehensive benefits enable our employees to live a healthy, fulfilling life at and outside of work. We place an emphasis on empowering our employees by fostering an inclusive environment built upon integrity and corporate responsibility.
If this sounds like a culture you connect with, you're invited to apply for this role. Or, if you are unsure whether your experience aligns with the requirements of this position, we encourage you to search on Lockheed Martin Jobs, and apply for roles that align with your qualifications.
Other Important Information
By applying to this job, you are expressing interest in this position and could be considered for other career opportunities where similar skills and requirements have been identified as a match. Should this match be identified you may be contacted for this and future openings.
Work Schedule Information
Lockheed Martin supports a variety of alternate work schedules that provide additional flexibility to our employees. Schedules range from standard 40 hours over a five day work week while others may be condensed. These condensed schedules provide employees with additional time away from the office and are in addition to our Paid Time off benefits.
National Pay Statement
Pay Rate: The annual base salary range for this position in California, Massachusetts, and New York (excluding most major metropolitan areas), Colorado, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Minnesota, New Jersey, Vermont, Washington or Washington DC is $134,000 - $236,325. For states not referenced above, the salary range for this position will reflect the candidate's final work location. Please note that the salary information is a general guideline only. Lockheed Martin considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/ training, key skills as well as market and business considerations when extending an offer.
Benefits offered: Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability, 401(k) match, Flexible Spending Accounts, EAP, Education Assistance, Parental Leave, Paid time off, and Holidays.
(Washington state applicants only) Non-represented full-time employees: accrue at least 10 hours per month of Paid Time Off (PTO) to be used for incidental absences and other reasons; receive at least 90 hours for holidays. Represented full time employees accrue 6.67 hours of Vacation per month; accrue up to 52 hours of sick leave annually; receive at least 96 hours for holidays. PTO, Vacation, sick leave, and holiday hours are prorated based on start date during the calendar year.
This position is incentive plan eligible.
Premium Pay Statement
Pay Rate: The annual base salary range for this position in most major metropolitan areas in California, Massachusetts, and New York is $154,100 - $267,145. For states not referenced above, the salary range for this position will reflect the candidate's final work location. Please note that the salary information is a general guideline only. Lockheed Martin considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/ training, key skills as well as market and business considerations when extending an offer.
Benefits offered: Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability, 401(k) match, Flexible Spending Accounts, EAP, Education Assistance, Parental Leave, Paid time off, and Holidays.
This position is incentive plan eligible.

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About Lockheed Martin

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As a global security and aerospace company, the majority of Lockheed Martin's business is with the U.S. Department of Defense and U.S. federal government agencies.The remaining portion of Lockheed Martin's business is comprised of international government and commercial sales of products, services and platforms.

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Bethesda, MD, US

Year founded

1912