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Nasa Physicist Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Socket.dev

Sr. Structural Analysis Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$105 - $155/hr

Familiarity with operating a Data Physics LE‑2016 shaker table * Understanding of applicable MIL and NASA test standards Your actual level and base salary will be determined case-by-case and may ...

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Canopy A&D

Aerothermal Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$90 - $140/hr

Strong understanding of engineering fundamentals in chemistry, physics, structures, materials ... NASA-GSFC-7000 series or other industry equivalent standards for design, analysis, and testing of ...

Canopy A&D

Aerothermal Engineer

Irvine, CA

Strong understanding of engineering fundamentals in chemistry, physics, structures, materials ... NASA-GSFC-7000 series or other industry equivalent standards for design, analysis, and testing of ...

Canopy A&D

Aerothermal Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

Strong understanding of engineering fundamentals in chemistry, physics, structures, materials ... NASA-GSFC-7000 series or other industry equivalent standards for design, analysis, and testing of ...

CANOPY A&D

Aerothermal Engineer

Irvine, CA

$90K - $140K/yr

Strong understanding of engineering fundamentals in chemistry, physics, structures, materials ... NASA-GSFC-7000 series or other industry equivalent standards for design, analysis, and testing of ...

Industrious Ventures

Aerothermal Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$90 - $140/hr

Strong understanding of engineering fundamentals in chemistry, physics, structures, materials ... NASA-GSFC-7000 series or other industry equivalent standards for design, analysis, and testing of ...

Canopy A&D

Aerothermal Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

Strong understanding of engineering fundamentals in chemistry, physics, structures, materials ... NASA-GSFC-7000 series or other industry equivalent standards for design, analysis, and testing of ...

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All JobsNasa Physicist JobsNasa Physicist Jobs in Riverside, CA

Nasa Physicist information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$41.2K

$98.9K

$236.3K

How much do nasa physicist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for nasa physicist in Riverside, CA is $98,907.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,600.00 and $116,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a NASA physicist?

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 are 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 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.

Does NASA hire physicists?

Yes, NASA hires physicists for roles involving space science, astrophysics, and research related to space exploration. Physicists at NASA often work in research, data analysis, and developing new technologies, typically requiring advanced degrees and specialized skills in physics or related fields.

What are popular job titles related to Nasa Physicist jobs in Riverside, CA?

For Nasa Physicist jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Nasa Physicist jobs in Riverside, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Nasa Physicist jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Nasa Physicist jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Nasa Physicist job openings:

Nasa Physicist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Nasa Physicist job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,907 per year, or $47.6 per hour.

Sr. Structural Analysis Engineer

Terran Orbital Corporation

Irvine, CA

$107K - $146K/yr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Terran Orbital is seeking an experienced Sr. Structural Analysis Engineer  to join our dynamic team. Reporting to the Structural Engineering Manager, the Sr. Structural Analysis Engineer will support spacecraft structural systems and subsystem design from concept development through design reviews, prototype testing, manufacturing, and verification testing. This role contributes technical expertise, supports testing activities, and collaborates closely with engineers across multiple disciplines.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to identify structural design constraints and recommend mitigation strategies across concept development, prototyping, production, testing, and launch integration
  • Support planning and coordination of structural analysis tasks for ongoing programs
  • Perform peer reviews of technical analysis material generated within the team
  • Assist in creating detailed finite element models of satellite structures and conduct analyses including static, dynamic, buckling, thermal, linear, nonlinear, and transient
  • Support mechanical test projects, including coordinating with test houses, assisting with logistics, designing and analyzing test fixtures, and documenting decisions and changes
  • Develop test plans, procedures, and reports for mechanical tests such as vibration, shock, acceleration, life, and endurance testing
  • Perform structural vibration testing for spacecraft modules, including data acquisition, digital signal processing, and modal analysis
  • Interpret test data in real time and provide recommendations when necessary
  • Interface with vendors and test facilities to support testing requirements and logistics
  • Participate in team discussions involving vehicle arrangement and structural design for current and future projects
  • Design and analyze test fixtures for mechanical testing
  • Contribute to the development and improvement of tools and processes to enhance structural analysis efficiency
  • Work effectively with program engineering leads to help maintain schedules and ensure technical compliance
  • Support preparation and presentation of Engineering Review Board (ERB) items as needed

Required Qualifications and Skills

  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field
  • Minimum of 5 years of direct industry experience performing structural analyses using numerical and analytical techniques in space, aerospace, or similar sectors
  • Experience with Nastran and Patran
  • Experience with vibration and shock testing of aerospace or space-grade equipment and familiarity with relevant military or NASA standards
  • Hands-on experience with test planning and execution
  • Understanding of launch vehicle loads and their implications for spacecraft systems
  • Experience creating detailed or simplified structural models for spacecraft systems or components is a plus
  • Proficiency with SolidWorks or equivalent CAD software
  • Strong communication and presentation skills for interfacing with customers and vendors
  • Highly processdriven with the ability to contribute to improving structural analysis and testing processes
  • U.S. Citizenship with ability to obtain and maintain DoD security clearance

Additional Differentiators

  • Master of Science degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering with a focus in solid mechanics
  • Experience with vibration (random, sine, SRS) and static load testing, including data acquisition and processing
  • Experience in a production environment within the aerospace or space industry
  • Experience with MSC tools (MSC Apex, Nastran, Patran, Adams, Marc) is a plus
  • Knowledge of HALT or HASS methodologies
  • Familiarity with operating a Data Physics LE2016 shaker table
  • Understanding of applicable MIL and NASA test standards

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