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Planetary Science Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Mclaurin Aerospace

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

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Astronomy Tutor

Corpus Christi, TX · 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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Astronomy Tutor

Bryan, TX · 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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Astronomy Tutor

Brownsville, TX · 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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Astronomy Tutor

Sugar Land, TX · 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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Astronomy Tutor

Austin, TX · 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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Astronomy Tutor

Mckinney, TX · 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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Astronomy Tutor

El Paso, TX · 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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Astronomy Tutor

Round Rock, TX · 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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Astronomy Tutor

Fort Worth, TX · 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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Astronomy Tutor

Missouri City, TX · 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

Pearland, TX · 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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All JobsPlanetary Science JobsPlanetary Science Jobs in Texas

Planetary Science information

See Texas salary details

$22.8K

$45.1K

$73.6K

How much do planetary science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 3, 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.

Where does a Planetary Scientist work?

A Planetary Scientist typically works at research institutions, universities, government agencies such as space agencies, and observatories. They may also work in laboratories, field sites, or remotely analyze data from spacecraft and telescopes. Many roles require collaboration with interdisciplinary teams and proficiency with specialized tools and data analysis software.

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 planetary systems. 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 require advanced degrees in chemistry, physics, or astronomy, along with experience in laboratory analysis and data interpretation. Job opportunities are typically posted through NASA's official careers portal and may involve collaboration with research institutions and universities.

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.

What are popular job titles related to Planetary Science jobs in Texas? For Planetary Science jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Planetary Science jobs in Texas look for? The top searched job categories for Planetary Science jobs in Texas are:
Planetary Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Planetary Science job openings in Texas as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 10% Internship, 46% As Needed, 25% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 11% Nights, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 66% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 33% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,084 per year, or $21.7 per hour.

GIS Developer

Mclaurin Aerospace

Houston, TX • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Are you passionate about human space exploration, understanding the origins of the universe, and working with a passionate and diverse team to make a difference? If you are, we need you!

We need your talent, teamwork, and energy to help us achieve great things that inspire people all over the globe. We need you to bring creative ideas and diverse backgrounds to help us envision, shape, and deliver systems that will enable the exploration of space while benefiting people here on Earth. We are excited about what we do, and we need you on our team as we take on exciting challenges for NASA's pursuits in deep space exploration.

We have an exciting opportunity for a GIS Developer to join our JETS II contract team at NASA Johnson Space Center in Houston, TX.

If selected you will:

  • Employ GIS and remote sensing techniques to Earth, Moon, and other planetary image data in support of International Space Station (ISS) and Artemis missions
  • Create, manage, and deploy data pipelines for imagery and geospatial products into web GIS, ArcGIS Enterprise, ArcPortal, and NASA internal applications
  • Develop planetary and Earth-based cartography products for NASA's human space flight missions and operations
  • Develop and manage geodatabases, versioning, data integrity, data catalogs, metadata and other related data information
  • Utilize and recommend automation techniques for dataset and imagery processing
  • Participate in science and imagery mission operations as needed
  • Develop and implement geospatial and data science QA/QC processes
  • Provide science services and technology products to a range of human exploration organizations including Artemis, Gateway, Orion, the lander/ascent systems, spacesuits, EVA, and ISS
  • Interact with scientists, engineers, and managers in a highly dynamic and occasionally time critical environment
  • Perform other duties as required

Qualifications:

This position has been posted at multiple levels. Depending on the candidate's experience, requirements, and business needs, we reserve the right to consider candidates at any level for which this position has been advertised.

  • Typically requires a bachelor's degree or equivalent certification in a related area and a minimum of 5 years of experience in the field or in a related area.
  • Geospatial database management, ArcGIS Online, Esri Portal, open-source GIS software, web and desktop-based GIS
  • Strong GIS programming skills
  • Experience with Earth and planetary remote sensing
  • Proficient computer skills (i.e. Microsoft Office suite, Adobe products)
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills and will be expected to effectively interact with teammates, customers, and management at all levels
  • Ability to prepare written documents and presentation to verbally present at various meetings
  • Ability to develop innovative and creative work ideas and work without specific tasking

Preferred Qualifications:

  • BS in geoscience, lunar science, planetary science, image science, GIS, remote sensing, computational science, or relevant science fields with applicable 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
  • Software scripting, command line skills, automation of tasks, programming language - Machine learning, deep learning, neural networks
  • Mission science integration and operations
  • Previous work with NASA and/or in the field of planetary geology

Benefits

  • Competitive pay
  • Positive work-life balance
  • 100% Employer paid insurance including: Medical, dental, vision, life insurance, accidental death and dismemberment, short-term disability, and long-term disability
  • 11 paid holidays annually
  • Generous PTO
  • 401k after 12 months of service with employer match
  • Education assistance
  • Relocation assistance (if applicable)

Mclaurin is a unique organization with a special focus on combining the best features of research and industry in order to foster innovation. Our organization strongly supports research, publication, and engagement with the academic community. We encourage our employees to remain on the cutting edge of new developments in their respective disciplines.

US Citizenship and the ability to pass a comprehensive security background investigation is required.

Mclaurin is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.

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