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Nasa Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

JES Tech

Research Coordinator

Houston, TX · On-site

We are seeking a Research Coordinator at the NASA Johnson Space Center (JSC) in Houston, TX . What You'll Do: In this role, you will provide vital research support for the Behavioral Health ...

JES Tech

Research Coordinator

Houston, TX · On-site

We are seeking a Research Coordinator at the NASA Johnson Space Center (JSC) in Houston, TX . What You'll Do: In this role, you will provide vital research support for the Behavioral Health ...

Vast

Staff Scientist

Long Beach, CA

Collaborate with NASA programs including Biological and Physical Sciences (BPS) * Human Research Program (HRP), and Mars Campaign Office (MCO) * Translate terrestrial research concepts into viable ...

HSG, LLC

Clinic Medical Director

Edwards, CA · On-site

$68K - $250K/yr

Join a team supporting the future of aerospace innovation at NASA Armstrong Flight Research Center. Herndon Solutions Group (HSG) is seeking an experienced Medical Director (MD/DO) to support ...

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How much do nasa research jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for nasa research in the United States is $39.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.00 and $50.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do NASA researchers get paid?

NASA researchers are typically classified as federal employees and are paid according to the General Schedule (GS) pay scale. Salaries vary based on experience, education, and grade level, with GS-13 to GS-15 being common for research roles, ranging from approximately $80,000 to over $150,000 annually. Additional benefits include health insurance, retirement plans, and paid leave.

What does a typical day look like for a NASA research scientist in terms of collaboration and project work?

A typical day for a NASA research scientist often involves a mix of independent analysis and collaborative team meetings. You may spend part of your day conducting experiments, analyzing large datasets, or running simulations using advanced computational tools. Teamwork is integral, so expect to participate in cross-disciplinary meetings, coordinate with engineers and other scientists, and present findings to project managers or stakeholders. The work environment is dynamic and project-based, with opportunities to contribute to innovative missions and research that have global or even interplanetary impact.

Can you work at NASA without a PhD?

While many research positions at NASA require a PhD, there are also roles such as engineers, technicians, and administrative staff that typically require a bachelor's or master's degree. Relevant skills, experience, and security clearances can also be important factors for employment at NASA.

What is a NASA Research job?

A NASA Research job involves conducting scientific investigations and technological developments to support space exploration, aeronautics, and Earth science. Researchers work in various fields, including astrophysics, planetary science, robotics, and climate studies. They analyze data, develop experiments, and contribute to NASA missions and projects. These jobs can be found at NASA centers, partner institutions, or as part of academic collaborations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Nasa Research position, and why are they important?

To excel in NASA research roles, candidates typically need an advanced degree (often a PhD or equivalent) in fields like engineering, physics, earth sciences, astrophysics, or computer science, along with a strong foundation in analytical and problem-solving skills. Familiarity with specialized software for data analysis, simulation tools, coding languages (such as Python or MATLAB), and sometimes security clearance are important requirements. Excellent teamwork, communication, and project management skills help researchers collaborate effectively across disciplines and convey complex findings. These abilities ensure rigorous research, innovation, and success in highly collaborative and impactful NASA projects.

Does NASA hire researchers?

Yes, NASA hires researchers in various scientific and engineering fields to support space exploration, aeronautics, and related projects. Candidates typically need relevant advanced degrees, research experience, and security clearances, and may work in laboratories, field sites, or offices depending on the role.

Is it difficult to get hired at NASA?

Getting hired at NASA for research roles is competitive and typically requires a strong educational background in science or engineering, relevant experience, and often advanced degrees such as a master's or Ph.D. The selection process involves rigorous evaluations, including interviews and security clearances, making the process challenging but achievable for qualified candidates.
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Nasa Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Nasa Research job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $83,160 per year, or $40 per hour.
Systems Development Engineer - NASA

Systems Development Engineer - NASA

AMERICAN SYSTEMS

Edwards, CA • On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Overview
The Senior Advanced Systems Development Engineer provides high-level engineering expertise in the design, development, integration, and testing of advanced aerospace systems at NASA Armstrong Flight Research Center (AFRC).
This position involves leading multi-disciplinary teams, managing complex system integrations, and ensuring compliance with NASA, FAA, and DoD standards. The role requires deep knowledge of flight and ground systems engineering, structural health monitoring (SHM), and advanced aerospace system development.
**This is a pipeline requisition designed to collect resumes for potential upcoming work at AMERICAN SYSTEMS and does not represent a current opening. Qualified candidates will be contacted when an opening/funding becomes available**
Responsibilities
Advanced Flight and Ground System Engineering:
• Lead the design, integration, and testing of flight research systems.
• Develop and manage system architectures, block diagrams, and interface control documents (ICDs).
• Perform requirements derivation, allocation, and traceability for complex aerospace systems.
• Support verification and validation (V&V) testing to ensure system compliance with NASA and FAA regulations.
• Manage risk assessment and mitigation strategies for flight systems and safety-critical components.
Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) and System Safety:
• Develop and implement SHM strategies for aircraft structural integrity assessments.
• Utilize advanced sensors and predictive analytics for fault detection and prevention.
• Oversee testing, calibration, and analysis of SHM technologies for flight-critical applications.
Systems Engineering and Integration:
• Define and manage system requirements, risk management, and integration strategies.
• Oversee software and hardware integration for avionics, propulsion, and control systems.
• Conduct airworthiness evaluations, failure modes and effects analysis (FMEA), and hazard analysis.
• Ensure compliance with NASA Systems Engineering Handbook (NASA/SP-2007-6105, Rev 1) and flight certification requirements.
Leadership, Research, and Project Management:
• Serve as technical lead and mentor for engineering teams and junior engineers.
• Drive research and development (R&D) initiatives, supporting NASA's aerospace advancements.
• Lead design reviews, risk assessments, and strategic planning for flight test programs.
• Coordinate with NASA engineers, government contractors, and research institutions to align project goals.
Qualifications
Education & Experience:
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Physical Science with 7+ years of experience, or
• Master's degree in Engineering or Physical Science with 4+ years of experience.
• Experience in aerospace engineering, flight research, or NASA-related programs is required.
Technical Skills & Knowledge:
• Expertise in aerospace systems engineering, including avionics, aerodynamics, and structural analysis.
• Proficiency in MATLAB, Simulink, CAD software, and data analysis tools.
• Extensive experience with NASA flight test processes, aerospace system integration, and flight safety regulations.
• Strong background in SHM, predictive maintenance, and aircraft sensor integration.
• Knowledge of FAA, NASA, and DoD safety and certification requirements.
Soft Skills & Work Environment:
• Proven ability to lead engineering teams and manage complex projects.
• Strong problem-solving, critical thinking, and decision-making skills.
• Excellent technical communication and presentation skills for both internal and external stakeholders.
• Ability to travel as required for technical reviews, test flights, and NASA research engagements.
• Must be able to obtain and maintain a security clearance.
Work Environment & Additional Information:
• Primary work location: NASA AFRC at Edwards AFB.
• Working hours: 7:30 AM - 3:30 PM, Monday-Thursday, with alternating Fridays off.
• Must comply with NASA ISO AS9100 procedures and all relevant aerospace regulations.
• Travel might be required for design reviews, technical meetings, and flight test support.
EEO Statement
EEO Race/Sex/Disability Status/Veteran Status

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