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Nasa Physicist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Terramechanics Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

This role emphasizes physics-based approaches to soil structure interaction, ranging from continuum ... Integrate soil and contact models into simulation frameworks and workflows, including NASA's Trick ...

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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.
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Nasa Physicist jobs near you
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.

Research Scientist

Analytical Mechanics Associates

Hampton, VA • On-site

$90K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Job Description:
AMA is seeking a career level Research Scientist to support atmospheric remote sensing research at NASA Langley Research Center (LaRC). This role focuses on advancing the analysis of long-term atmospheric data records and enhancing NASA's expertise in interpreting global observations of atmospheric composition measurements. A candidate with strong expertise in atmospheric remote sensing, middle atmospheric composition, and trace gas chemistry and dynamics is desired for this position. Engagement with the broader scientific community and presentation of novel scientific analyses will be expected. The selected candidate will help to develop time series analyses and to interpret long-term observations of trace gases and atmospheric state parameters from satellite observations. Additional experience in passive remote sensing instrument characterization and retrieval algorithms would be an asset. This position integrates scientific programming, data analysis, time series analysis, and atmospheric chemistry and dynamics as part of NASA's mission to understand atmospheric variability and long-term trends.
The successful candidate will be required to live within a reasonable commuting distance from the NASA Langley Research Center in Hampton, VA. The salary range is $90,000-$125,000 commensurate with education and experience.
Key Responsibilities
  • Conduct scientific programming and data analysis for atmospheric remote sensing products, including ozone, water vapor, and related trace gases.
  • Analyze and interpret atmospheric measurements from NASA and partner instruments, including long-term data sets and climatologies.
  • Perform and interpret ensemble analyses to statistically intercompare satellite remote sensing observations and climatological models and re-analyses of atmospheric composition and dynamics.
  • Collaborate with NASA scientists and university partners to assess the temporal evolution of atmospheric state variables and gaseous species concentrations.
  • Prepare technical documentation and reports (LaTeX or Microsoft Word) summarizing findings, evaluations, and recommendations.
  • Contribute to software development, configuration management, testing, debugging, and deployment of scientific analysis tools.

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's in Physics, Atmospheric Science, or a related field.
  • 5-10 years of demonstrated experience with satellite, airborne, or ground-based atmospheric datasets.
  • Background in processes governing atmospheric physics, chemistry, and/or dynamics.
  • Scientific programming proficiency in Python, MATLAB, IDL, or similar languages.
  • Experience analyzing atmospheric data products such as trace gases and aerosols.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, including uncertainty analysis and retrieval evaluation.
  • Strong oral and written communication skills.

Desired Qualifications:
  • :PhD in a relevant scientific discipline capable of performing research independently.
  • Familiarity with stratospheric chemistry and dynamics processes.
  • Experience working with atmospheric data sets, including model data, to interpret atmospheric transport or dynamic and chemical evolution of air parcels.
  • Experience with SAGE I/II/III, MLS, ACE-FTS, OMPS-LP, or other satellite atmospheric remote sensing data sets.
  • Experience with reanalysis products or models of stratospheric trace gas products.
  • Familiarity with NASA data systems, formats (NetCDF, HDF), and analysis workflows.
  • Experience collaborating with university or government research partners.

As an onsite position U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Residence is required.
Analytical Mechanics Associates (AMA) is proud of our customer relationships, our diverse and dynamic work environment, and our employees' career satisfaction. AMA is a small business with a wide reach; headquartered in Hampton, VA, AMA has operations in Greenbelt, MD; Huntsville, AL; Dallas and Houston, TX; Denver, CO; Mountain View, CA; and Edwards Air Force Base, CA. With over 60 years of experience, AMA specializes in aerospace engineering, science, analytics, information technology, and visualization solutions. AMA combines the best of engineering, science, and mathematics capabilities with the latest in information technologies, visualization, and multimedia to build creative solutions. We offer competitive salaries and a substantial benefits package, including but not limited to paid personal and federally recognized holiday leave, salary deferrals into a 401(k)-matching plan with immediate vesting, tuition reimbursement, short/long term disability plans, and a variety of medical, dental, and vision insurance options.
AMA is committed to the professional growth of every employee, understanding that the successes of our employees drive our success. We provide a work environment that is engaging, collaborative, and supportive. To learn more about our company, please visit our website at www.ama-inc.com/careers and follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn.
AMA is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against any applicant for employment or employee because of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic prohibited under federal, state, or local laws.

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