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Planetary Science Jobs in Tucson, AZ (NOW HIRING)

Varsity Tutors

Astronomy Tutor

Tucson, AZ · 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 ...

All JobsPlanetary Science JobsPlanetary Science Jobs in Tucson, AZ

Planetary Science information

See Tucson, AZ salary details

$23.2K

$45.8K

$74.7K

How much do planetary science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for planetary science in Tucson, AZ is $45,753.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,400.00 and $49,200.00 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 Tucson, AZ?

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

What job categories do people searching Planetary Science jobs in Tucson, AZ look for?

The top searched job categories for Planetary Science jobs in Tucson, AZ are:

What cities near Tucson, AZ are hiring for Planetary Science jobs?

Cities near Tucson, AZ with the most Planetary Science job openings:

Planetary Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Planetary Science job openings in Tucson, AZ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 25% Temporary. Highlights an 50% In-person, and 50% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,753 per year, or $22 per hour.

Research Professor, Steward Observatory

UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA

Tucson, AZ • On-site

$90 - $140/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago

University Of Arizona rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 68 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

366th of 627 rated colleges and universities

Job description

The University of Arizona's Steward Observatory invites candidates to apply to the role of Research Professor. In this position, the successful candidate will support space instrumentation projects within the Center for Astronomical Adaptive Optics and the UA Space Astrophysics Lab. The faculty member will bridge the gap between science and engineering, working closely with astronomers and engineers to design, build, and commission world‑class missions. This position will support new and in‑progress space instruments for space‑based wide‑field astronomy, coronagraphy, and spectropolarimetry; and advancing the technology readiness of a variety of approaches through development, test, and publication.

Recently selected to build the Lazuli instruments, the PUFFINS CubeSat, and home to the Aspera Pioneer and JWST NIRCam teams, Steward Observatory provides direct access to various world‑class facilities for ground‑based radio and optical observing. Among these are the Large Binocular Telescope and 6.5m aperture telescopes located in both the northern and southern hemispheres and applicants would be eligible to submit their own science proposals and lead independent research programs.

This career‑track appointment is not eligible for tenure. This position may be eligible for a hybrid work assignment in conversation with the supervisor.

This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.

Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more!

Duties & Responsibilities
  • Support instrumentation projects within the Center for Astronomical Adaptive Optics.
  • Bridge the gap between science and engineering, work closely with scientists and engineers to develop and deploy space instruments.
  • Research the technology readiness of novel solutions.
  • Proven ability to collaborate across disciplines.
Minimum Qualifications
  • PhD in astronomy, optics, physics, engineering, or related field.
  • Minimum of 15 years of experience in developing space instrumentation.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience in wavefront sensing and observatory pointing, astrometry, and guiding.
  • Experience in visible light sensors and telescope optics.
  • Experience in agile development.
  • Experience in modern software practices and documentation including python and git.
  • Experience managing design priorities across teams.
  • Experience leading the build or commissioning of an astronomical instrument or observatory.
  • Experience mentoring students, postdocs, junior engineers and junior faculty.
  • Experience in space astronomy or planetary science.
Benefits
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
  • Life insurance and disability programs.
  • Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
  • U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members.
  • Retirement plans.
  • Access to U of A recreation and cultural activities.
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