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Planetary Science Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Northwestern University

Research Lab Manager 1

Evanston, IL · On-site

$56K - $79K/yr

The Department of Earth, Environmental & Planetary Sciences (DEEPS) at Northwestern University is seeking a Department Lab Manager to provide essential and diverse organizational support for teaching ...

Varsity Tutors

Astronomy Tutor

Buffalo Grove, IL · Remote

$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

Lake Forest, IL · Remote

$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

Chicago, IL · Remote

$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

Naperville, IL · Remote

$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

Oak Lawn, IL · Remote

$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

Des Plaines, IL · Remote

$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

Highland Park, IL · Remote

$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

Skokie, IL · Remote

$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

Evanston, IL · Remote

$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

Wheaton, IL · Remote

$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

Schaumburg, IL · Remote

$40/hr

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

Wittenstein SE

Cost Accountant

Bartlett, IL · On-site

$64K - $86K/yr

WITTENSTEIN uses the power of science, innovation, and forward-thinking engineering to provide you cutting-edge technology for motion. Since pioneering the alpha servo planetary gear reducer in 1983 ...

All JobsPlanetary Science JobsPlanetary Science Jobs in Chicago, IL

Planetary Science information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$25.2K

$49.9K

$81.4K

How much do planetary science jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for planetary science in Chicago, IL is $49,850.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,700.00 and $53,600.00 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 the most commonly searched types of Planetary Science jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Planetary Science jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Planetary Science jobs in Chicago, IL?

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

What job categories do people searching Planetary Science jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Planetary Science jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Planetary Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Planetary Science job openings in Chicago, IL as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 73% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 24% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,850 per year, or $24 per hour.

Assistant Professor, Department of the Geophysical Sciences

Chicago, IL • On-site

The University of Chicago
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 10K+ employees
Learn more about The University of Chicagoexternal

$120K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

University Of Chicago rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 48 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Description
The Department of the Geophysical Sciences at the University of Chicago invites applications for a tenure-track faculty position at the rank of Assistant Professor across all areas of Earth and Planetary Science.
We seek individuals who will lead world-class research programs and enhance the intellectual endeavors of the department and the university. Ongoing research interests and activities can be found on the department website.
Note: The Department is carrying out a parallel search in the general area of Earth and Planetary Materials for candidateswhose research focuses on geochemistry, geophysics, cosmochemistry, planetary evolution, or related fields. That search is at all ranks, including Assistant Professor. Applicants whose research aligns with that search are encouraged to also apply for that position. The job posting can be found here: apply.interfolio.com/192883
Qualifications
Completion of all requirements for the PhD in Earth or planetary sciences or a related field prior to appointment is required.
Application Instructions
Required materials are:
• a cover letter,
• a curriculum vitae,
• a statement of research,
• a statement of teaching and mentoring philosophy,
• and three confidential letters of recommendation via Interfolio.
Applications must be submitted through the University of Chicago academic careers website: apply.interfolio.com/192886
Review of applications will begin October 19, 2026 and will continue until the position is filled.
Base salary range for this position is:
Assistant Professor: $120,000 - $150,000
The base salary range is for a nine-month academic appointment. Individuals may be eligible for summer salary. This position may be eligible for a taxable moving allowance.
This position is benefits-eligible. The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off. Information about the benefit offerings can be found in the Benefits Guidebook.

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