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Nasa Physicist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... physics, robotics, biomechanics, computer graphics, and aerospace systems. You will work alongside NASA engineers and mission stakeholders to develop simulation capabilities that are accurate, robust ...

... physics, robotics, biomechanics, computer graphics, and aerospace systems. You will work alongside NASA engineers and mission stakeholders to develop simulation capabilities that are accurate, robust ...

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Nasa Physicist information

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$39.5K

$94.8K

$226.5K

How much do nasa physicist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 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.

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 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 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 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.
More about Nasa Physicist jobs
What cities are hiring for Nasa Physicist jobs? Cities with the most Nasa Physicist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Nasa Physicist jobs? The most popular types of Nasa Physicist jobs are:
What states have the most Nasa Physicist jobs? States with the most job openings for Nasa Physicist jobs include:
Infographic showing various Nasa Physicist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $94,805 per year, or $45.6 per hour.

$77K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

As an Industrial Hygienist at Glenn Research Center or Neil A. Armstrong Test Facility, you will develop, implement, and maintain Center-level environmental and occupational health programs and oversee compliance with Federal, State, NASA, and Agency requirements. Positions are located in various organizations, and NASA may fill positions at any of the grade levels listed in this announcement: GS-11/12/13/14.

Qualifications:Specialized experience is experience that has equipped you with the particular ability, skill, and knowledge to successfully perform the duties of this position and is typically in or related to this line of work.
To qualify for GS-11, you must have:
a) One year of directly related specialized experience equivalent to the GS-09 level:
  • Conducting exposure assessments involving chemical, physical, or biological hazards by collecting and analyzing data, comparing results to established standards, and recommending measures to support occupational health and regulatory compliance.

OR
b) Completed all requirements for a doctoral degree (i.e., Ph.D. or equivalent) in an appropriate field
OR
c)
Completed 3 full academic years of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to a Ph.D. degree or equivalent doctoral degree in an appropriate field.
OR
d) Have an equivalent combination of experience and graduate study as discussed in a), b) and c) above
To qualify for GS-12, you must have one year of directly related specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 level:
  • Managing or administering industrial hygiene programs by evaluating occupational hazards, conducting exposure assessments, and supporting compliance with Federal, NASA, and organizational requirements.

To qualify for GS-13, you must have one year of directly related specialized experience equivalent to the GS-12 level:
  • Implementing industrial hygiene and health physics practices by evaluating occupational hazards, developing mitigation recommendations, and supporting occupational health programs to ensure compliance with Federal, NASA, and organizational requirements.

To qualify for GS-14, you must have one year of directly related specialized experience equivalent to the GS-13 level:

  • Leading industrial hygiene, health physics, and occupational health programs by directing hazard evaluations, developing mitigation strategies, and providing technical oversight to ensure compliance with Federal, NASA, and organizational requirements.

Your resume must include a clear and detailed narrative description, in your own words, of how you meet the required specialized experience. Experience statements copied from a position description, vacancy announcement or other reference material constitutes plagiarism and may result in disqualification and losing consideration for the job.
Please visit https://www.nasa.gov/careers/how-to-apply/#Artificial-Intelligence to review NASA's guidance on the use of artificial intelligent (AI) or AI-assisted tools during the application process.
Promotion Potential
The full performance level (FPL) will vary based on the position in which the selectee is placed and does not default to the highest grade advertised.
Additional selections may be made for similar positions across NASA within the local commuting area(s) of the location(s) identified in this announcement. By applying, you agree to have your application shared with interested selecting official(s) within NASA. CTAP/ICTAP will be cleared for any additional selection from this announcement.

If you have special priority selection rights under the Agency Career Transition Assistance Program (CTAP) or the Interagency Career Transition Assistance Program (ICTAP), you must:

  • Indicate your eligibility when applying for a position. The questionnaire asks you to identify your ICTAP/CTAP eligibility.
  • Be well qualified for this position to receive consideration. Candidates rated in the 'Best Qualified' category are considered well-qualified. Please see 'How You Will Be Evaluated' for more information.
  • Submit proof that you meet the requirements for CTAP/ICTAP as indicated in 'Required Documents.'
For additional information about CTAP/ICTAP eligibility, click: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/workforce-restructuring/employee-guide-to-career-transition/#ictap.Education:Basic Requirements:
You must have successfully completed a full 4-year course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a bachelor's or higher degree that included a major in industrial hygiene, occupational health sciences, occupational and environmental health, toxicology, safety sciences, or related science.
OR
Have successfully completed a full 4-year course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a bachelor's degree that included a major in engineering, physical science, or life science that included 12 semester hours in chemistry, including organic chemistry, and 18 additional semester hours of courses in any combination of chemistry, physics, engineering, health physics, environmental health, biostatistics, biology, physiology, toxicology, epidemiology, or industrial hygiene.
OR
Have a Certification from the American Board of Industrial Hygiene (ABIH).
U.S. degrees must have been awarded from colleges or universities that are accredited by recognized accrediting organizations. For a list of schools that meet this criteria, go to http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation/.
If you are using education completed in foreign colleges or universities to meet the qualification requirements, you must show that the education credentials have been evaluated by a private organization that specializes in interpretation of foreign education programs. These education credentials must be deemed equivalent to that gained in an accredited U.S. education program; or full credit has been given for the courses at a U.S. accredited college or university. For further information, visit: https://sites.ed.gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/.
All degrees must have been received in the year of, or any year subsequent to the original date of accreditation.Employment Type: OTHER