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Planetary Science Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

Multi-Disciplinary Optical Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$132K - $171K/yr

Minimum of a bachelor's degree in Optics, Planetary Science, Astronomy, Pphysics, Engineering, or Math, or related field and 14 or more years 14 or more with a Masters, 9 or more with a PhD) of ...

SAIC

Multi-Disciplinary Optical Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site +1

$132K - $171K/yr

Qualifications *  Minimum of a bachelor's degree in Optics, Planetary Science, Astronomy, Pphysics, Engineering, or Math, or related field and 14 or more years 14 or more with a Masters, 9 or more ...

Saic

Multi-Disciplinary Optical Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$160 - $200/hr

Strongly Desired Skills Master's degree in Optics, Planetary science, Astronomy, Physics, Engineering, Math, or related field Physics, Engineering, or Mathematics. * Familiarity or experience with ...

SAIC

Multi-Disciplinary Optical Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$132K - $171K/yr

Minimum of a bachelor's degree in Optics, Planetary Science, Astronomy, Pphysics, Engineering, or Math, or related field and 14 or more years 14 or more with a Masters, 9 or more with a PhD) of ...

US Department of the Interior

Geologist

Lakewood, CO

$99K/yr

... science, planetary geology, comparative planetology, geophysics, meteorology, hydrology, oceanography, physical geography, marine geology, and cartography. NOTE: You must submit copies of your ...

A-Z List | U.S. Geological Survey

Geologist

Lakewood, CO · On-site

$99K/yr

... science, planetary geology, comparative planetology, geophysics, meteorology, hydrology, oceanography, physical geography, marine geology, and cartography. NOTE: You must submit copies of your ...

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Planetary Science information

See Colorado salary details

$25.8K

$50.9K

$83.1K

How much do planetary science jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for planetary science in Colorado is $50,884.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,500.00 and $54,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is planetary science?

A Planetary Science job involves studying planets, moons, asteroids, and other celestial bodies to understand their composition, atmospheres, geology, and potential for life. Scientists in this field use data from telescopes, spacecraft, and lab experiments to analyze planetary systems. Careers in planetary science can be in academia, government agencies like NASA, or private space industries, focusing on research, exploration, and mission planning.

What are some typical projects or research areas that planetary scientists work on?

Planetary scientists commonly work on projects involving the study of planets, moons, asteroids, and comets both within our solar system and beyond. Their work may include analyzing data from space missions, simulating planetary environments, studying surface composition and atmospheric conditions, or investigating planetary formation and evolution. These projects often require close collaboration with astronomers, geologists, physicists, and engineers. Depending on your specific focus, you may spend your days in a lab, working with computer models, or participating in field studies to analog sites on Earth, offering a dynamic and varied work environment.

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

To thrive in Planetary Science, you need a strong background in physics, geology, astronomy, and data analysis, often supported by an advanced degree in a related scientific field. Familiarity with remote sensing technologies, laboratory instrumentation, programming languages (such as Python or MATLAB), and experience with scientific data processing tools is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, effective written and verbal communication, and an aptitude for teamwork are essential soft skills. These competencies enable planetary scientists to conduct rigorous research, collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, and contribute valuable insights to our understanding of planetary bodies.

Are planetary scientists in demand?

Planetary scientists are in moderate demand, primarily in research institutions, government agencies, and space agencies like NASA and ESA. Employment opportunities depend on research funding, project availability, and advanced skills in data analysis, remote sensing, and planetary geology.

What can you do with a degree in planetary science?

A degree in planetary science prepares individuals for careers in research, space agencies, and academia, focusing on planetary systems, celestial bodies, and space exploration. Graduates often work as planetary scientists, research analysts, or mission planners, utilizing skills in data analysis, remote sensing, and scientific instrumentation. Advanced positions may require further education or specialized training in astrophysics or engineering.

What are popular job titles related to Planetary Science jobs in Colorado?

For Planetary Science jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Planetary Science jobs in Colorado look for?

The top searched job categories for Planetary Science jobs in Colorado are:

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Planetary Science jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Planetary Science job openings:

Planetary Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Planetary Science job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, and 22% Part Time. Highlights an 78% In-person, and 22% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,884 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCHER - Planetary Dynamics - Boulder, CO

Southwest Research Institute

Boulder, CO • On-site

$60 - $80/hr

Other

Posted 6 days ago

Southwest Research Institute rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

9th of 75 rated research

Job description

POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCHER - Planetary Dynamics - Boulder, CO

19-00192

Who We Are:

Contribute expertise in planetary dynamics and planet formation studies to a team of world‑class solar system scientists who are unlocking the mysteries of planetary system evolution, dynamics, and processes.

Objectives of this Role:
  • Conduct analytical or numerical modeling and model analysis studies of problems in solar system dynamics and collisional physics with relevance to planet or Moon formation studies.
  • Conduct observational data analysis that supports model validation.
  • Incorporate additional physical schemes into numerical models.
  • Develop and grow an independent research program through external program support.
  • Participate in mission and/or instrument proposals to support the strategic growth of the Department.
Daily and Monthly Responsibilities:
  • Independently develop and implement hypotheses‑driven numerical model and data analysis activities.
  • Configure, initialize, run, and analyze solar system collisional and/or dynamical evolution models to test hypotheses.
  • Maintain and grow a research program in solar system dynamics, planet formation, and/or collisional physics through external funding.
  • Actively seek and apply for external support of research activities.
  • Participate and contribute to group meetings for the “Center of Lunar Origin and Evolution”.
Requirements:
  • Requires a Ph.D. in Planetary Science, Astronomy, Physics, Astrophysics, Geophysics or Aerospace Engineering with an expertise in planetary dynamics or related field.
  • 0 years: Expertise in theory, programming, and numerical modeling.
  • Ability to debug code, test code, and implement new physics.
Special Requirements:

Work assignment is in Boulder, Colorado. This is a 1‑year limited term assignment.

An Equal Employment Opportunity Employer: race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, and veteran status.

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