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Planetary Remote Sensing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The ideal candidate will bring deep expertise in one or more of the following areas: * planetary ... remote sensing and Earth observation * geospatial analytics and environmental monitoring ...

Senior Data Visualization Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site +1

$134K - $162K/yr

We're looking for a spatial thinker with a passion for remote sensing analysis and visual ... data products (Planetary Variables) to create visualizations for external distribution. We're ...

... planetary scale. Requirements * Degree in Atmospheric Science, Computer Science, or related ... Experience with numerical weather prediction, remote-sensing data, or geospatial intelligence

Planetary Remote Sensing information

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$28

$32

$36

How much do planetary remote sensing jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for planetary remote sensing in the United States is $32.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.77 and $34.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is planetary remote sensing?

Planetary remote sensing is the science of acquiring information about planets and other celestial bodies without making physical contact with them. This is typically done using satellites, spacecraft, and telescopes equipped with sensors that collect data in various wavelengths, such as visible, infrared, and radar. Scientists use this data to study surface compositions, atmospheres, climates, and geological processes on planets, moons, and asteroids. Planetary remote sensing plays a crucial role in space exploration, helping us understand the history and potential habitability of other worlds.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a planetary remote sensing specialist?

To thrive as a Planetary Remote Sensing Specialist, you need a strong background in geoscience, physics, and remote sensing technologies, usually supported by an advanced degree in planetary science or a related field. Familiarity with satellite imaging software, GIS tools, data processing systems, and coding languages like Python or MATLAB is typically required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for interpreting complex data and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These competencies are vital for accurately analyzing planetary surfaces and advancing scientific understanding in space exploration.

How does a planetary remote sensing specialist typically collaborate with interdisciplinary teams during a mission?

Planetary Remote Sensing specialists often work closely with geologists, data scientists, engineers, and mission planners to collect, interpret, and analyze data from spacecraft sensors. Collaboration is essential, as each team member brings their own expertise—remote sensing specialists may design data collection strategies, while engineers ensure instruments function correctly and scientists interpret findings within the broader mission context. Regular meetings, data-sharing platforms, and joint field simulations are common ways these teams coordinate. This collaborative environment fosters innovative problem-solving and ensures mission objectives are met efficiently.

What is the difference between Planetary Remote Sensing vs Satellite Remote Sensing?

AspectPlanetary Remote SensingSatellite Remote Sensing
CredentialsGeospatial, planetary science, remote sensing certificationsGeospatial, remote sensing, GIS certifications
Work EnvironmentSpace agencies, planetary research labs, spacecraft data analysisEarth observation agencies, satellite data centers, GIS firms
Industry UsageExploring planets, moons, and celestial bodiesMonitoring Earth's environment, weather, and land use

Planetary Remote Sensing focuses on analyzing data from space missions to study planets and moons, often involving spacecraft and planetary science expertise. Satellite Remote Sensing primarily involves Earth observation satellites used for environmental monitoring, agriculture, and urban planning. While both fields use remote sensing technologies, their applications, environments, and target objects differ significantly.

What other helpful pages are available for Planetary Remote Sensing?

Other pages related to Planetary Remote Sensing:

Infographic showing various Planetary Remote Sensing job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,000 per year, or $32.7 per hour.

Postdoctoral Researcher - Space Remote Sensing and Data Science

Los Alamos, NM • On-site, Remote

Los Alamos National Laboratory
Scientific Research and Development Services • 5 - 10K employees

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago


Los Alamos National Laboratory rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

8th of 121 rated laboratories


Job description

What You Will Do
This position is for a postdoctoral researcher in the Space Remote Sensing and Data Science Group (ISR-6) at Los Alamos National Laboratory. You will work closely with interdisciplinary teams on projects related to remote sensing, data science, image and signal processing, machine learning, and sensor data analysis. Responsibilities will be tailored to your background and interests, with opportunities to contribute to innovative research and development.
As a postdoctoral researcher, you will be involved in advancing methods and technologies for collecting, processing, analyzing, and interpreting data from space, airborne, ground-based, and laboratory remote-sensing systems. Candidates should have broad technical skills and an interest in applying computational and analytical techniques to scientific challenges.
In this role, you may contribute to one or more of the following areas:
  • Developing and applying algorithms to process and analyze sensor data (including images, spectra, time series, or other types)
  • Using statistical, mathematical, or computational methods to address detection and characterization problems
  • Modeling sources, sensors, and measurement uncertainties
  • Analyzing and interpreting experimental or field-collected data
  • Contributing to the design or calibration of sensing systems and instruments
  • Participating in laboratory, field, or deployment activities to collect and evaluate remote-sensing data
  • Communicating research findings through reports, presentations, publications, and teamwork


What You Need
Minimum Job Requirements:

  • PhD in engineering, physical sciences, computer science, mathematics, or a related field (or will have completed by start date)
  • General experience in scientific computing, data analysis, or algorithm development
  • Ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams and communicate research results effectively
  • Demonstrated strong analytical problem-solving abilities to overcome technical challenges in remote sensing and data science challenges

Desired Qualifications:
  • Familiarity with one or more areas such as image/signal processing, machine learning, statistical analysis, sensor systems, or scientific software
  • Experience with programming languages or scientific computing tools
  • Experience with experimental or field research, instrumentation, or data collection
  • Willingness to develop new skills and contribute to collaborative research projects

Physical Requirements:
  • Physical movement between buildings located primarily within a half-mile radius, which may include movement across uneven and/or inclined ground
  • Physical movement within large interior facility spaces and corridors, which may require travel up and down stairs
  • Direct interaction with hardware, equipment, and instruments in office and laboratory environments



Work Location: The work location for this position is onsite and located in Los Alamos, NM. All work locations are at the discretion of management.
Note to Applicants:
Please submit a resume and a cover letter describing your research interests, relevant experience, and how your background aligns with the position. Highlight any experience in scientific computing, data analysis, remote sensing, sensor research, or other areas relevant to the role.
Due to federal restrictions contained in the current National Defense Authorization Act, citizens of the People's Republic of China-including the special administrative regions of Hong Kong and Macau-as well as citizens of the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (North Korea), and the Russian Federation, who are not Lawful Permanent Residents ("green card" holders) are prohibited from accessing facilities that support the mission, functions, and operations of national security laboratories and nuclear weapons production facilities, which includes Los Alamos National Laboratory.
Where You Will Work
Located in beautiful northern New Mexico, Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is a multidisciplinary research institution engaged in strategic science on behalf of national security. Our generous benefits package includes:
  • PPO or High Deductible medical insurance with the same large nationwide network
  • Dental and vision insurance
  • Free basic life and disability insurance
  • Paid childbirth and parental leave
  • Award-winning 401(k) (6% matching plus 3.5% annually)
  • Learning opportunities and tuition assistance
  • Flexible schedules and time off (PTO and holidays)
  • Onsite gyms and wellness programs
  • Extensive relocation packages (outside a 50 mile radius)

ISR-6 is a research group that designs and deploys advanced sensing systems and analysis tools for mission areas including nuclear non-proliferation, space domain awareness, atmospheric and planetary science, and applied intelligence. The group's staff includes engineers, scientists, and data specialists working collaboratively to develop cutting-edge technologies.
Additional Details
Directive 206.2 - Employment with Triad requires a favorable decision by NNSA indicating employee is suitable under NNSA Supplemental Directive 206.2. Please note that this requirement applies only to citizens of the United States. Foreign nationals are subject to a similar requirement under DOE Order 142.3A.
Clearance: Q (Position will be cleared to this level). Selected applicants will be subject to a background investigation conducted by or on behalf of the Federal Government, and must meet eligibility requirements* for access to classified matter. This position requires a Q clearance, and obtaining such clearance requires US Citizenship except in extremely rare circumstances. Dependent upon the position, additional authorization to access classified information may be required, which may or may not be available to dual citizens. Receipt of a Q clearance and additional access authorization ultimately is a decision of the Federal Government and not of Triad.
*Eligibility requirements: To obtain a clearance, an individual must be at least 18 years of age; U.S. citizenship is required except in very limited circumstances. See DOE Order 472.2 for additional information.
New-Employment Drug Test: The Laboratory requires successful applicants to complete a new-employment drug test and maintains a substance abuse policy that includes random drug testing. Although New Mexico and other states have legalized the use of marijuana, use and possession of marijuana remain illegal under federal law. A positive drug test for marijuana will result in termination of employment, even if the use was pre-offer.
Internal Applicants: Regular appointment employees who have served the required period of continuous service in their current position are eligible to apply for posted jobs throughout the Laboratory. If an employee has not served the required period of continuous service, they may only apply for Laboratory jobs with the documented approval of their Division Leader. Please refer to Policy Policy P701 for applicant eligibility requirements.
Equal Opportunity: Los Alamos National Laboratory is an equal opportunity employer. All employment practices are based on qualification and merit, without regard to protected categories such as race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status or spousal affiliation, physical or mental disability, medical conditions, pregnancy, status as a protected veteran, genetic information, or citizenship within the limits imposed by federal, state, and local laws and regulations. The Laboratory is also committed to making our workplace accessible to individuals with disabilities and will provide reasonable accommodations, upon request, for individuals to participate in the application and hiring process. To request such an accommodation, please send an email to applyhelp@lanl.gov or call (505)-664-6947.
Instructions on How to Activate/Create a LANL Jobs Account:
Follow the instructions below if you have ever had an employee Z number, been a contractor, or received Los Alamos Lab insurance coverage to activate your account:
  • Select the Click Here button if you have been employed with the Lab or received insurance coverage.
  • Please enter only your first and last name and current email address (an email with your validation code will be sent to you) to activate the account currently in our system.
  • Enter your validation code as described in the email you receive and complete the 3-page registration form. Your account is now active, and you can apply for jobs or save to your basket. Important: Enter the validation code within 15 days to activate your account or your account will be deactivated.
Follow the instructions below if you if you have never been employed with the Lab or received insurance coverage to create an account:
  • Select the Register button if you have never been employed with the Lab or received insurance coverage to Create an Account.
  • From here, you will establish an account with username and password.

How to apply:


Login to Your Account to Complete the Application Process
  • Click the Vacancy Name number (in blue) to view any job's details.
  • Click Apply or Add to Basket to apply later. Tip: To apply for a job or save your basket, you must have a LANL jobs account.
If you experience any technical issues, please email applyhelp@lanl.gov for assistance.

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