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Planetary Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Villanova University

Observatory Attendant

Villanova, PA · On-site

$11.25/hr

Number of positions: 20 Department: 182-Astronomy and Planetary Science Contact Name: Kathleen DeMara Contact Phone/Extension: 6105194820 Position Summary Information Summary: Observatory Attendant ...

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

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

Pae

GIS Developer

Houston, TX · On-site +1

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

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

ORAU

Mars Geology & Tectonics Postdoc (Pasadena)

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$53K - $72K/yr

Successful candidates will engage in projects that advance NASA's missions in planetary science and aeronautics. Ideal for individuals holding a Doctoral Degree, this position is based in Pasadena ...

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How much do planetary scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for planetary scientist in the United States is $90,961.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,000.00 and $100,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Planetary Scientist position, and why are they important?

A Planetary Scientist typically holds an advanced degree in planetary science, astronomy, geology, or a related field, with strong analytical, research, and quantitative skills. Familiarity with scientific programming languages (such as Python or MATLAB), remote sensing tools, planetary data analysis software, and possibly experience operating telescopes or spacecraft data systems is common. Standout soft skills include effective communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities to collaborate on research and present findings. These competencies are crucial for conducting rigorous research, advancing scientific knowledge, and contributing to collaborative projects in the field.

What are the typical daily tasks and work environment for a Planetary Scientist?

Planetary Scientists generally split their time between analyzing data from spacecraft or telescopes, conducting computer simulations, and writing research reports or academic papers. Many work within academic institutions, research centers, or government agencies and collaborate regularly with other scientists and engineers on multi-disciplinary projects. Fieldwork may occasionally be involved, such as collecting meteorite samples or participating in workshops and conferences. The role requires both independent research and teamwork, offering a dynamic environment for those who enjoy both detailed analysis and collaborative discovery.

What is a Planetary Scientist job?

A Planetary Scientist studies planets, moons, asteroids, and other celestial bodies to understand their composition, atmospheres, geology, and potential for life. They use data from telescopes, spacecraft, and simulations to analyze planetary systems. Their work helps answer fundamental questions about the formation and evolution of planets, both in our solar system and beyond. Planetary scientists often collaborate with space agencies like NASA or ESA and may work in research institutions, universities, or private space companies.

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What cities are hiring for Planetary Scientist jobs? Cities with the most Planetary Scientist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Planetary Scientist jobs? The most popular types of Planetary Scientist jobs are:
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Planetary Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Planetary Scientist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 74% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 25% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $90,961 per year, or $43.7 per hour.
Jackson Endowed Chair in Computational Geosciences

Jackson Endowed Chair in Computational Geosciences

The University of Texas at Austin

Austin, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 12 hours ago

University Of Texas at Austin rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 62 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

133rd of 546 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Description
The Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences (EPS) and the Oden Institute for Computational Engineering & Sciences at The University of Texas at Austin (UT) seek to hire a Professor at full, tenured rank for the Jackson Endowed Chair in Computational Geosciences.
We seek an outstanding scholar who will conduct cutting-edge research to develop, advance, and apply innovative and transformational computational approaches in the geosciences, broadly defined. The successful candidate will be appointed jointly between EPS and the Oden Institute, with 50% of the candidate's teaching dedicated to EPS's undergraduate and graduate teaching mission, and 50% of the teaching in the Oden Institute's graduate program in Computational Science, Engineering and Mathematics. We thus seek a candidate whose research and teaching skills lie at the forefront of both the computational sciences and the Earth and planetary sciences.
The Oden Institute is an interdisciplinary unit that draws its faculty from across five of UT's schools and colleges. As one of the global leaders in interdisciplinary computational science, engineering, and mathematics, the Oden Institute's mission is to provide the interdisciplinary environment that enables outstanding research, fosters high-impact collaborations, and advances graduate education in the field of computational science and engineering.
As part of the Jackson School of Geosciences (www.jsg.utexas.edu), the Dept. of Earth and Planetary Sciences (https://eps.jsg.utexas.edu/) is a leading department combining interdisciplinary scope with excellence. EPS has over 50 faculty and a community of research scientists with a broad range of specialties, as well as access to outstanding research facilities and support. The Jackson School is nationally ranked in the Earth Sciences (No. 4), with three subdisciplines ranking in the top 5.
JSG and Oden also partner with other UT entities including within the Cockrell School of Engineering, the College of Natural Sciences, the Texas Advanced Computing Center, the Center for Planetary Systems Habitability, and the Center for Space Research, and maintain extensive external partnerships nationally and internationally. The University of Texas at Austin is an Equal Opportunity Employer located in a thriving metropolitan area with a dynamic, multicultural community of 2.5 million people.
Qualifications
A Ph.D. is required at the time of appointment.
Application Instructions
The successful applicant is expected to establish a vibrant, externally funded research program. Interested applicants should submit a cover letter, CV including list of publications, three page research statement including a broader vision for computational geoscience, a teaching and mentoring statement, and a list of three individuals who would be able to provide letters of reference. Submit copies of these materials online via Interfolio. Review of applications will begin August 31, 2026, and will continue until the position is filled. Questions concerning the search can be addressed to Patrick Heimbach (heimbach@utexas.edu) or Thorsten Becker (twb@ig.utexas.edu), and about the application and submissions process to EPSoffice@jsg.utexas.edu.

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