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Planetary Science Jobs in Pennsylvania (NOW HIRING)

The Pennsylvania State University

D. in Astronomy, Physics, Planetary Science, Statistics, or a related field prior to the start date. The position start date is flexible. Applications must be submitted electronically and include a ...

The Pennsylvania State University

$114K/yr

Penn State hosts a vibrant community of scientists working on many aspects of exoplanetary astrophysics, including the Center for Exoplanets and Habitable Worlds, the Consortium for Planetary and ...

Varsity Tutors

Astronomy Tutor

State College, PA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of celestial mechanics, stellar evolution, planetary science, cosmology, observational techniques, electromagnetic spectrum, solar system formation, galaxies, black holes, and the ...

Varsity Tutors

Astronomy Tutor

Pittsburgh, PA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of celestial mechanics, stellar evolution, planetary science, cosmology, observational techniques, electromagnetic spectrum, solar system formation, galaxies, black holes, and the ...

Varsity Tutors

Astronomy Tutor

Allentown, PA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of celestial mechanics, stellar evolution, planetary science, cosmology, observational techniques, electromagnetic spectrum, solar system formation, galaxies, black holes, and the ...

Varsity Tutors

Astronomy Tutor

Chester, PA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of celestial mechanics, stellar evolution, planetary science, cosmology, observational techniques, electromagnetic spectrum, solar system formation, galaxies, black holes, and the ...

Varsity Tutors

Astronomy Tutor

Reading, PA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of celestial mechanics, stellar evolution, planetary science, cosmology, observational techniques, electromagnetic spectrum, solar system formation, galaxies, black holes, and the ...

Varsity Tutors

Astronomy Tutor

Harrisburg, PA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of celestial mechanics, stellar evolution, planetary science, cosmology, observational techniques, electromagnetic spectrum, solar system formation, galaxies, black holes, and the ...

Varsity Tutors

Astronomy Tutor

Erie, PA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of celestial mechanics, stellar evolution, planetary science, cosmology, observational techniques, electromagnetic spectrum, solar system formation, galaxies, black holes, and the ...

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Planetary Science information

See Pennsylvania salary details

$24.6K

$48.5K

$79.2K

How much do planetary science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for planetary science in Pennsylvania is $48,507.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,600.00 and $52,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 funding, project availability, and advanced skills in data analysis, remote sensing, and planetary geology, often requiring a Ph.D. and specialized training.

What qualifications do you need to be a planetary scientist?

To become a planetary scientist, a bachelor's degree in planetary science, astronomy, geology, physics, or a related field is required, often followed by a master's or Ph.D. for research roles. Strong analytical skills, experience with data analysis and modeling, and proficiency in scientific tools and software are also important for the job.

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.

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 laboratory techniques. Advanced positions may require further education or specialized training, and familiarity with tools like telescopes and spacecraft data is common.

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 the most commonly searched types of Planetary Science jobs in Pennsylvania? The most popular types of Planetary Science jobs in Pennsylvania are:
What are popular job titles related to Planetary Science jobs in Pennsylvania? For Planetary Science jobs in Pennsylvania, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Planetary Science jobs in Pennsylvania look for? The top searched job categories for Planetary Science jobs in Pennsylvania are:
Planetary Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Planetary Science job openings in Pennsylvania as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 83% In-person, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,507 per year, or $23.3 per hour.

Assistant Professor - Astrophysics and Planetary Science

Villanova University

Villanova, PA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago

Villanova University rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

310th of 617 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Posting Details
Do you have questions about the application process? If so, please refer to the Applicant FAQ's.
Posting Details (Default Section)
Posting Number:
20241139F
Position Title:
Assistant Professor - Astrophysics and Planetary Science
Position Type:
Faculty
Location:
Villanova, PA
Recruitment Type:
Internal/External Applicants
Work Schedule:
full-time/9-months
Department:
182-Astronomy and Planetary Science
Position Summary:
The Department of Astrophysics & Planetary Science at Villanova University invites applications for a tenure track position at the rank of Assistant Professor starting in August 2025. We seek highly qualified candidates in theoretical and/or observational Astrophysics or Planetary Science, who will enhance the research directions and existing expertise in the Department. Applicants who demonstrate an outstanding track record of independent research skills in the fields of Stellar Astrophysics, Planets (both inside and outside the solar system), Space Weather, or Astrobiology are particularly encouraged. In their Research Plan, applicants should indicate how their specific research interests complement and/or expand the general research directions of the Department.
Applicants must be strongly committed to the teacher-scholar model within a Liberal Arts & Sciences environment in a primarily undergraduate institution. The successful candidate must demonstrate a high potential for initiating and maintaining an active and productive research program at Villanova involving undergraduate students, and the ability to attract external funding.
Villanova University is located in a suburban setting 12 miles from downtown Philadelphia, PA. The Department of Astrophysics & Planetary Science offers a Bachelor of Science degree. Current departmental resources include a dedicated high performance computing cluster, guaranteed access to the 1.3 meter Robotically Controlled Telescope located at Kitt Peak National Observatory, onsite research telescopes, and a public observatory. Startup funds will be available to the successful candidate.
Villanova is a Catholic university sponsored by the Augustinian Order. The University is an equal opportunity employer and seeks candidates who understand, respect and can contribute to the University's mission and values.
Duties and Responsibilities:
In addition to maintaining an active research program leading to external grant funding, professional conference contributions, and publication in the peer-reviewed literature, our new colleague will teach undergraduate courses in his/her area of expertise, as well as other departmental courses, in a way that fosters connections across the discipline and the Villanova community. Teaching will be 6 contact hours one semester and 9 the other; committee responsibilities consistent with rank.
Minimum Qualifications:
PhD in Astrophysics or related fields.
Preferred Qualifications:
Post-doctoral experience in Astronomy, Astrophysics, Physics, or Planetary Science. Undergraduate teaching or public outreach experience.
Physical Requirements and/or Unusual Work Hours:
Special Message to Applicants:
Applicants must apply online at https://jobs.villanova.edu/. Documents which cannot be submitted through this site should be submitted directly to kathleen.demara@villanova.edu
All applications are to include:
• Application letter.
• Current and complete curriculum vitae.
• Statement of Teaching Philosophy
• Research Plan
• Unofficial Academic Transcripts
• Contact information for at least three references who will receive a secure email link to upload confidential
Posting Date:
06/24/2024
Closing Date (11:59pm ET):
Salary Posting Information:
Competitive
Salary Band:
Job Classification:
faculty

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About Villanova University

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Villanova University, located in Villanova, Pennsylvania, United States, operates within the higher education industry. Its establishment traces back to 1842 by the Augustinians, a Catholic religious order. The university offers a wide range of academic programs in various disciplines, including Liberal Arts and Sciences, Engineering, Nursing, Business, and Law, serving over 10,000 undergraduate, graduate, and law students. Guided by its Augustinian Catholic intellectual tradition, it is committed to community service, and it seeks to cultivate knowledgeable, thoughtful, and ethical leaders. The university’s mission is to empower students to ignite change, with a vision for a just and peaceful world.

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Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Villanova, PA, US

Year founded

1842

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