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Nasa Physicist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

Computational Physicist

Greenbelt, MD

$80K - $120K/yr

Work with Contractor and NASA staff to provide the design, development, implementation, maintenance and documentation of integration and test procedures for the GEOS models and DAS. * Plan and ...

Headquarters, NASA

Safety Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site +1

$147K - $197K/yr

NASA prohibits the use of artificial intelligence (AI) or AI-assisted tool in drafting application ... or physics: (a) statics, dynamics; (b) strength of materials (stress-strain relationships); (c ...

BWX Technologies, Inc.

Health Physicist 2

Erwin, TN

$66K - $101K/yr

Department of Energy and NASA facilities. BWXT's technology is driving advances in medical ... Requisition Number: [[id]] Health Physicist 2 - Nuclear Fuel Services - Erwin, TN Position Overview:

BWX Technologies

Health Physicist 2

Erwin, TN · On-site

$66K - $101K/yr

Department of Energy and NASA facilities. BWXT's technology is driving advances in medical ... Requisition Number: ((id)) Health Physicist 2 - Nuclear Fuel Services - Erwin, TN Position Overview:

BWXT

Health Physicist 2

Erwin, TN · On-site

$66K - $101K/yr

Department of Energy and NASA facilities. BWXT's technology is driving advances in medical ... Requisition Number: [[id]] Health Physicist 2 - Nuclear Fuel Services - Erwin, TN Position Overview:

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$94.8K

$226.5K

How much do nasa physicist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for nasa physicist in the United States is $94,805.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,000.00 and $112,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do physicists make at NASA?

Physicists working at NASA typically earn between $80,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and seniority. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced physicists or those in senior roles can earn higher salaries, often supplemented by benefits and research funding.

Does NASA hire biochemists?

NASA primarily hires scientists and engineers in fields related to space science, physics, and engineering. While biochemists are not common roles, NASA may employ biochemists in specialized research areas such as astrobiology or life sciences, often requiring relevant degrees and research experience. Interdisciplinary skills and knowledge of biological sciences can be advantageous for certain NASA projects.

What does a NASA physicist do?

A NASA physicist conducts research and applies the principles of physics to help solve problems related to space exploration, Earth sciences, and aeronautics. Their work includes designing experiments, analyzing data from space missions, developing new technologies, and contributing to the understanding of phenomena such as gravity, radiation, and planetary atmospheres. NASA physicists often collaborate with engineers, astronomers, and other scientists to support the agency's missions and advance scientific knowledge.

What are some common challenges NASA physicists face when working on interdisciplinary projects?

NASA physicists often collaborate with engineers, computer scientists, and other specialists on complex missions. One common challenge is effectively communicating highly technical physics concepts to team members from different backgrounds, ensuring everyone is aligned on objectives and methodologies. Additionally, balancing scientific exploration with practical constraints, such as budget and project timelines, requires flexibility and creative problem-solving. These experiences can be professionally rewarding and foster broad skill development, making collaboration a critical aspect of the role.

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

To thrive as a NASA Physicist, you need an advanced degree in physics or a related field, a solid understanding of scientific research methods, and experience in data analysis. Familiarity with simulation software, programming languages like Python or MATLAB, and laboratory instrumentation is typically required, along with any relevant certifications for specialized equipment. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication skills help you collaborate across multidisciplinary teams and convey complex findings. These skills ensure that research is accurate, innovative, and actionable, driving NASA's mission in space exploration and technology development.

What is the difference between Nasa Physicist vs Aerospace Engineer?

AspectNasa PhysicistAerospace Engineer
Required CredentialsPhysics degree, PhD often preferredEngineering degree, often aerospace or mechanical
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, mission control, data analysisDesign, testing, manufacturing of aircraft and spacecraft
Industry UsageResearch institutions, NASA, government agenciesAircraft and spacecraft companies, defense industry

While both roles work within aerospace and space exploration, Nasa Physicists focus on scientific research and data analysis related to space phenomena, whereas Aerospace Engineers design and develop aircraft and spacecraft systems. Both careers require strong technical skills, but their daily tasks and work environments differ significantly.

What is NASA's highest paying job?

The highest paying job at NASA is typically a senior executive or director role, such as the NASA Associate Administrator or senior scientists with extensive experience and advanced degrees. These positions often offer salaries exceeding $150,000 annually, depending on experience and responsibilities.

Does NASA hire physicists?

Yes, NASA hires physicists for roles involving space science, astrophysics, and research related to space exploration. These positions often require advanced degrees in physics or related fields, strong analytical skills, and familiarity with scientific tools and data analysis. Physicists at NASA may work in laboratories, research centers, or in mission support environments.
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Nasa Physicist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Nasa Physicist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,805 per year, or $45.6 per hour.
Computational Physicist

Computational Physicist

SAIC

Greenbelt, MD

$80K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

SAIC rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

70th of 213 rated it services

Job description

Job ID: 2614674

Location: Greenbelt, MD, US

Date Posted: 2026-07-17

Category: Engineering and Sciences

Subcategory: Scientist

Schedule: Full-Time

Shift: Day Job

Travel: No

Minimum Clearance Required: Public_Trust

Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain: None

Potential for Remote Work: ORA_ON_SITE


Description

SAIC's GLOMAS contract is looking for a Computational Physicist to support global modeling and data assimilation support at the agency’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland. Under this contract, SAIC will be responsible for supporting and maintaining NASA Goddard’s Global Modeling and Assimilation Office’s Goddard Earth Observing System (GEOS) model and data assimilation system. 

Job Duties:

  • Work with Contractor and NASA staff to provide the design, development, implementation, maintenance and documentation of integration and test procedures for the GEOS models and DAS. 
  • Plan and perform system integration and test procedures, analyzing and documenting the results. 
  • interface with users of GEOS products to define required product streams, and with distributors of GEOS products to ensure robust product delivery.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s Degree in computer science or physical science. 
  • 5+ years of experience relevant to software integration and testing; good organizational and communication skills. 
  • Demonstrates extensive experience with Python, or shell scripting, and with configuration management (CM) tools such as Git.

Desired:

  • Knowledge of Earth science, experience with the display and analysis of assimilated data sets using Python, MATLAB and/or graphics packages such as GrADS, use of high-end computing environments and experience working within an operational production environment, are highly desirable.

Target salary range: $80,001 - $120,000. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors.

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