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Planetary Science Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

S. in Physics, Engineering, Planetary Science, or a related technical field. * 5+ years of experience in fundamental planetary science research and/or applying planetary science knowledge to space ...

Masters in geoscience, lunar science, planetary science, image science, GIS, remote sensing, computational science or relevant science fields with applicable experience * 5+ years of work experience

GIS Developer

Houston, TX · On-site +1

Masters in geoscience, lunar science, planetary science, image science, GIS, remote sensing, computational science or relevant science fields with applicable experience * 5+ years of work experience

Masters in geoscience, lunar science, planetary science, image science, GIS, remote sensing, computational science or relevant science fields with applicable experience * 5+ years of work experience

GIS Developer

Houston, TX · On-site +1

Masters in geoscience, lunar science, planetary science, image science, GIS, remote sensing, computational science or relevant science fields with applicable experience * 5 years of work experience

Materials Scientist or Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$110K - $150K/yr

Contribute to materials selection, qualification, and the planetary science and engineering support for dust mitigation solution design, testing, and analysis for all exposed hardware. * Develop ...

Lunar Surface Systems Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$125K - $250K/yr

D. in Planetary Sciences, Space Resources, Spacecraft Systems Engineering, or related technical subject area. * Experience leading cross-functional system integration, interface management and ...

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

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 Texas salary details

$22.8K

$45.1K

$73.6K

How much do planetary science jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for planetary science in Texas is $45,084.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35,900.00 and $48,400.00 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.

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 geology, atmospheres, and celestial bodies. Graduates often work as planetary scientists, research analysts, or mission specialists, utilizing skills in data analysis, remote sensing, and scientific instrumentation. Advanced positions may require further education or specialized training in related fields.

Does NASA hire astrochemists?

NASA employs astrochemists as part of its planetary science and astrophysics research teams. These scientists study chemical processes in space environments and often hold advanced degrees in chemistry, astronomy, or related fields, with experience in laboratory analysis and data interpretation. Job opportunities typically require a strong background in scientific research and familiarity with space missions or telescopic data analysis.

What's the highest paying astronomy job?

In astronomy, senior research scientists, astrophysicists, and astronomer roles at government agencies or research institutions tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding $100,000 annually. These positions typically require advanced degrees, strong research skills, and experience with data analysis tools and telescopes.

What is the salary of a Planetary Scientist?

The average salary of a planetary scientist in the United States ranges from $70,000 to $130,000 per year, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions typically start around $60,000, while senior roles or those with advanced degrees and research experience can earn higher salaries. Many planetary scientists work for government agencies, research institutions, or universities, often requiring a Ph.D. in planetary science, astronomy, or a related field.

What is a Planetary Science job?

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.

Infographic showing various Planetary Science job openings in Texas 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 $45,084 per year, or $21.7 per hour.

Space Scientist, AST - Planetary Studies (Direct Hire)

US National Aeronautics and Space Administration

Houston, TX

$147K/yr

Other

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

As the Planetary Data Officer with the Planetary Science Division (PSD), Science Mission Directorate (SMD), you will lead the PSD Data Services Program. You will be the division's authority for data management, coordinating all data- and software-related activities. You will be responsible for policies and procedures that govern the program and the projects within it, and the resources, procurement, and funding necessary to operate it. You will coordinate across SMD and the agency as needed.Qualifications:In addition to the Basic Education Requirement (in the Education section below), to qualify for this position you must meet the requirements below. Specialized experience is experience that has equipped you with the particular ability, skill, and knowledge to successfully perform the duties of this position and is typically in or related to this line of work.
NASA utilizes OPM-approved qualification and rating requirements specific for Aerospace Technology (AST) positions which recognizes NASA's unique aerospace work. The specific qualifications and minimum education requirements are further described below and within the education section of the job announcement.
To qualify for GS-15, you must have one year of directly related specialized experience equivalent to the GS-14 level:
  • Developing and implementing long-term program planning efforts that support scientific or technological program activities, including the establishment and tracking of performance metrics;
  • Developing and applying strategic concepts, integration plans, and program management frameworks to advance program goals;
  • Using or developing, or leading teams using or developing, data systems and software tools for planetary science research and data product generation.
Your resume must include a clear and detailed narrative description, in your own words, of how you meet the required specialized experience. Experience statements copied from a position description, vacancy announcement or other reference material constitutes plagiarism and may result in disqualification and losing consideration for the job.
NASA prohibits the use of artificial intelligence (AI) or AI-assisted tool in drafting application and assessment responses. Please visit https://www.nasa.gov/careers/how-to-apply/#Artificial-Intelligence to review NASA's guidance on the use of AI tools during the application process.Education:Basic Education Requirement: You must have successfully completed a bachelor's degree with a major in one of the following:
a) Engineering from a college or university that has ABET accredited engineering programs
b) Physical Science, Mathematics, Life Science or other field of Science
c) Computer Science that included 30 semester hours or 45 quarter hours of course work in any combination of mathematics, statistics and computer science with at least half of those hours in mathematics and statistics courses that included differential and integral calculus; and that provided an in-depth knowledge of theoretical and practical applications of computer science, including digital computer system architecture and system software organization, the representation and transformation of information structures, and the theoretical models for such representations and transformations.
If you did not complete a qualifying bachelor's degree, you may be eligible if you have obtained a graduate degree in an AST qualifying field, as listed above.
Degrees in engineering technology are not considered qualifying for this position.
Engineering degrees earned within the United States: Engineering degrees earned within the United States must be from a college or university that has at least one ABET accredited engineering program. To find out if a school has at least one ABET accredited program, please visit http://www.abet.org.
Engineering degrees earned outside the United States: Engineering degrees earned outside the United States must be recognized by a Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA), often known as accords. These are non-governmental agreements among organizations that accredit academic degree programs. MRAs recognize the substantial equivalence of mature accreditation systems and programs accredited by signatory organizations within their jurisdictions. For a listing of Signatories, please visit, https://www.abet.org/global-presence/mutual-recognition-agreements/is-your-program-recognized/.
Science and other related degrees earned within the United States: Science and other related degrees must have been awarded from colleges or universities that are accredited by recognized accrediting organizations. For a list of schools that meet this criteria, go to http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation/.
Science and other related degrees earned outside the United States: If you are using education completed in foreign colleges or universities to meet the qualification requirements, you must show that the education credentials have been evaluated by a private organization that specializes in interpretation of foreign education programs. These education credentials must be deemed equivalent to that gained in an accredited U.S. education program; or full credit has been given for the courses at a U.S. accredited college or university. For further information, visit: https://sites.ed.gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/.
All degrees must have been received in the year of, or any year subsequent to the original date of accreditation.Employment Type: OTHER