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Planetary Science Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Caltech

Staff Scientist

Pasadena, CA · On-site

PhD in astronomy, planetary science or a related discipline and two years of post-PhD experience. * Strong oral and written communication skills as well as the ability to work well with others on a ...

Amentum

GIS Developer

Houston, TX · On-site

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

Mclaurin Aerospace

GIS Developer

Houston, TX · On-site

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

The Jacobs Brand

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

Blue Origin

Embedded Software Engineer IV

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$197K - $276K/yr

At our Southern California location, we look to "Touch Life" by supporting planetary science, including every NASA Mars rover since Spirit and Opportunity. We aim to "Mine the Sky" through the ...

Blue Origin, LLC

Engineer - Test III

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

At our Southern California location, we look to "Touch Life" by supporting planetary science, including every NASA Mars rover since Spirit and Opportunity. We aim to "Mine the Sky" through the ...

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How much do planetary science jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for planetary science in the United States is $48,391.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,500.00 and $52,000.00 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.

More about Planetary Science jobs
What cities are hiring for Planetary Science jobs? Cities with the most Planetary Science job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Planetary Science jobs? The most popular types of Planetary Science jobs are:
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Planetary Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Planetary Science job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 33% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 47% Nights, and 4% Summer. Highlights an 74% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 25% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,391 per year, or $23.3 per hour.
Postdoctoral Fellowship in Stellar Astrophysics

Postdoctoral Fellowship in Stellar Astrophysics

Villanova University

Villanova, PA • On-site

$44K - $60K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 19 hours ago

Villanova University rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

268th of 546 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:
20231096F
Position Title:
Postdoctoral Fellowship in Stellar Astrophysics
Position Type:
Faculty
Location:
Villanova, PA
Recruitment Type:
Internal/External Applicants
Work Schedule:
full-time/12-months
Department:
182-Astronomy and Planetary Science
Position Summary:
Villanova University's Department of Astrophysics and Planetary Science invites applications for the NSF-sponsored postdoctoral research fellowship. A successful applicant will join Andrej Prsa's research team and work on the PHOEBE code, advancing our understanding of the processes in contact binary stars. In parallel, the applicant will be given an opportunity to teach an undergraduate core science course/lab, where the stress is on incorporating four critical components in a meaningful way: problem solving, laboratory experience, technology and quantitative tools, and interdisciplinary understanding. While the teaching component is entirely optional, it is offered to provide development and growth in the applicant's teaching. Finally, the applicant will join the Departmental ecosphere and participate in shaping the future of research and education at Villanova. The fellowship includes a 12-month salary, a travel budget and full employee benefits. The postdoctoral fellowship is a 3-year appointment, renewed annually under the condition of satisfactory performance and continued mutual interest.
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:
A successful applicant will be expected to:
  • demonstrate the highest regard for the diverse, equitable and inclusive Departmental culture and uphold the true and complete respect for all students, staff and faculty;
  • work with PHOEBE developers and contribute significantly to the PHOEBE code base and to the organization of PHOEBE summer workshops;
  • focus on the state-of-the-art research in contact binary physics, namely the flow of mass and energy across the common envelope and the consequent dynamical equilibrium processes;
  • work on formulating an atmosphere model for contact binary stars;
  • partake in research that connects theoretical models and observational data from space-borne missions (most notably Kepler and TESS);
  • be proficient in computational astrophysics, astrostatistics, and/or exoplanetary science;
  • participate in Departmental affairs: meetings, colloquia, events and functions. This includes working with and counseling undergraduate students, contributing to public events and advancing the Department's reputation and renown locally, nationally and internationally;
  • (optional) teach 1 or 2 sections of the core science courses or labs per semester (currently "How old is the Universe?", "Life in the Universe", "Planetary skies and landscapes", "Birth and Death of Stars", "Earth - our habitable world", and "Earth - a cosmic connection").

Minimum Qualifications:
  • A PhD in Physics, Astrophysics, Data Science or a closely related discipline is required.
  • Strong proficiency with programming, especially in python and optionally in C/C++.
  • Strict adherence to open source software and open science models.
  • Ability and willingness to work as part of a large development team.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Teaching: prior experience in teaching STEM classes to non-STEM majors is desired.
  • Research: strong track record in physics, astrophysics, statistics and programming is desired.
  • Service: ability to work with colleagues and to demonstrate diversity awareness is desired.

Physical Requirements and/or Unusual Work Hours:
Special Message to Applicants:
The Department of Astrophysics and Planetary Science will start reviewing applications on February 1, 2024, but will keep accepting applications until the position is filled. The target starting date is June 1, 2024, with the possibility of shifting to both earlier and later dates, depending on the applicant needs/availability.
All applicants must apply online and complete a faculty profile. Applications must include:
  1. A cover letter expressing interest in the position.
  2. A current and complete resume/curriculum vitae.
  3. A research statement.
  4. A statement of commitment to the principles of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI).
  5. Two letters of recommendation; the system will request the letters directly from the references when appropriate in the process.

If the applicant wishes to submit any other supporting documentation, they may submit them online in conjunction with the application.
Posting Date:
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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Year founded

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