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How much do space exploration jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for space exploration in the United States is $15.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.50 and $17.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs in the US pay 300,000 a year?

In the field of space exploration, senior roles such as aerospace engineers, mission managers, and senior scientists can earn salaries of $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and leadership responsibilities. High-level executive positions in aerospace companies or government agencies may also reach or exceed this salary level, often requiring specialized skills, security clearances, and long-term commitment.

What is the difference between Space Exploration vs Satellite Technician?

AspectSpace ExplorationSatellite Technician
Required CredentialsEngineering degrees, specialized training in aerospace or astrophysicsTechnical diploma or associate degree in electronics or telecommunications
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, spacecraft, space agencies, remote field sitesSatellite ground stations, repair facilities, telecommunications companies
Employer & Industry UsageNASA, SpaceX, aerospace firmsTelecom companies, satellite service providers

Space Exploration involves designing, developing, and conducting missions to explore outer space, often requiring advanced degrees and working in research or space agency environments. Satellite Technicians focus on maintaining and repairing satellites, typically working in ground stations or repair facilities with technical certifications. While both roles are in the aerospace industry, they differ in scope, skills, and work settings.

What profession makes $400,000 a year?

In the field of space exploration, senior aerospace engineers, spacecraft program managers, and high-level executives can earn salaries around $400,000 annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and leadership roles. These positions often require specialized skills, certifications, and years of industry experience.

What are careers in space exploration?

Careers in space exploration include roles such as aerospace engineers, astrophysicists, mission controllers, and spacecraft technicians. These jobs often require strong backgrounds in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM), and may involve working with specialized tools, research, or in mission control environments.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in space exploration roles?

Professionals in space exploration often encounter challenges such as adapting to rapidly evolving technology, working within strict safety and regulatory standards, and collaborating across multidisciplinary teams that may include engineers, scientists, and mission specialists. The work environment can be highly dynamic, with tight project deadlines and the need for meticulous attention to detail. Additionally, roles may require problem-solving in high-pressure situations, especially when supporting live missions or troubleshooting unexpected issues. These challenges are balanced by the excitement of contributing to groundbreaking discoveries and innovations.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

In the field of space exploration, roles such as commercial spacecraft pilot or specialized technician can sometimes earn around $10,000 per month without requiring a traditional college degree, often relying on extensive training, certifications, and experience. These positions typically involve technical skills, safety protocols, and hands-on work in aerospace environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a career in space exploration, and why are they important?

To thrive in space exploration, you typically need a strong background in STEM fields, such as engineering, physics, or astronomy, often supported by an advanced degree. Familiarity with specialized tools like spacecraft systems, robotics, simulation software, and, for some roles, pilot or technical certifications is essential. Collaboration, problem-solving, and adaptability are crucial soft skills for working in multidisciplinary teams and handling the unique challenges of space missions. These skills and qualifications ensure safe, innovative, and effective contributions to complex space projects and missions.

What is space exploration?

Space exploration is the investigation and study of outer space through the use of astronomy, robotic spacecraft, and human spaceflights. It aims to increase our understanding of the universe, including planets, stars, and other celestial bodies beyond Earth. Space exploration has led to numerous scientific discoveries, technological advancements, and has inspired innovations that benefit life on Earth. Agencies like NASA, ESA, and private companies such as SpaceX are actively involved in this field.
More about Space Exploration jobs
What cities are hiring for Space Exploration jobs? Cities with the most Space Exploration job openings:
What states have the most Space Exploration jobs? States with the most job openings for Space Exploration jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Space Exploration jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Space Exploration jobs are:
Space Exploration jobs near you
Infographic showing various Space Exploration job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, and 67% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $31,289 per year, or $15 per hour.

Mechanical Design Engineer - Space Exploration projects

Amentum

Houston, TX • On-site

$72K - $98K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 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. As NASA's largest engineering solutions provider working together with NASA at centers across the United States.
We have an exciting opportunity for a Mechanical Design Engineer - Space Exploration Projects to join the JETSII Contract!
** We are actively searching for qualified candidates for this potential opening; however, we do not have assurance at this time when the position will be finalized and opened. Because we have strong reason to believe the position will be approved soon, we are proceeding with identifying qualified candidates and conducting interviews. **
The Mechanical Design Engineer - Space Exploration Projects will:
  • Support NASA's future space exploration activities
  • Work in a team environment to analyze requirements and develop design solutions
  • Design, develop, test, analyze, and implement technical products and systems
  • Perform engineering design evaluations
  • Produce engineering drawings conforming to applicable standards
  • Perform dimensional tolerance analyses, including thermal effects and GD&T
  • Perform functional, structural and thermal analyses as required
  • Support design with hand calculations for fit, function, strength and thermal response
  • Prepare and present at various design reviews
  • Produce other design documentation as required
  • Perform other reporting duties as required

Requisition 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 minimum of a bachelor's degree in Engineering and may be expected to have a related masters degree and normally possess 10-15 years of related experience.
  • BS degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering
  • Experience designing parts and assemblies using 3D CAD modeling software
  • Experience producing drawings conforming to ASME Y14.5
  • Experience applying tolerance analyses, including thermal effects and GD&T
  • Experience with machine shop processes and rapid prototyping (3D printing)
  • Experience with both structural and thermal analysis of parts and assemblies
  • Excellent oral, written and presentation communication skills

Requisition Preferences:
  • Prior NASA (especially JSC) or aerospace development & manufacturing experience
  • Familiarity with JSC Engineering Drawing System Manual (JPR 8500)
  • Familiarity with JSC Fabrication Tolerances and Practices (SKZ36103755)
  • Experience designing NASA flight hardware and creating drawings for NASA/JSC
  • Mechanisms or robotics design experience
  • Experience using PTC CREO or Pro/Engineer and related extensions such as Cabling, Piping, Sheetmetal and Simulation
  • Experience leading technical design teams and mentoring junior engineers
  • NASA or aerospace mechanical design experience
  • Why Join Our Team?

In addition to exciting career opportunities, we also have:
  • Excellent personal and professional career growth
  • 9/80 work schedule (every other Friday off), when applicable
  • Onsite cafeteria (breakfast & lunch)
  • Much, much more!

For more information on our partnership with NASA at Johnson Space Center (JSC), please visit www.wehavespaceforyou.com
  • Proof of U.S. Citizenship or US Permanent Residency may be a requirement for this position.
  • Must be able to complete a U.S. government background investigation.
  • Management has the prerogative to select at any level for which the position is advertised.

Essential Functions
Work Environment
Generally, an office environment, but can involve inside or outside work depending on task.
Physical Requirements
Work may involve sitting or standing for extended periods (90% of time). May require lifting and carrying up to 25 lbs. (5% of time).
Equipment and Machines
Standard office equipment (PC, telephone, printer, etc.).
Attendance
Regular attendance in accordance with established work schedule is critical. Ability to work outside normal schedule and adjust schedule to meet peak periods and surge requirements.
Other Essential Functions
Professional behavior that enhances productivity and promotes teamwork and cooperation. Grooming and dress must be appropriate for the position and must not impose a safety risk/hazard to the employee or others.
#JETS #JETSII
Compensation Details:
EN4-ESS
The compensation range or hourly rate listed for this position is provided as a good-faith estimate of what the company intends to offer for this role at the time this posting was issued. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as job responsibilities, education, experience, skills, internal equity, market data, applicable collective bargaining agreements, and relevant laws.
Benefits Overview:
Our health and welfare benefits are designed to support you and your priorities. Offerings include:
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Paid time off and holidays
  • Retirement benefits (including 401(k) matching)
  • Educational reimbursement
  • Parental leave
  • Employee stock purchase plan
  • Tax-saving options
  • Disability and life insurance
  • Pet insurance

Note: Benefits may vary based on employment type, location, and applicable agreements. Positions governed by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the McNamara-O'Hara Service Contract Act (SCA), or other employment contracts may include different provisions/benefits.
Original Posting:
05/22/2026 - Until Filled
Amentum anticipates this job requisition will remain open for at least three days, with a closing date no earlier than three days after the original posting. This timeline may change based on business needs.
Amentum is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our hiring practices provide equal opportunity for employment without regard to race, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or medical conditions related to pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding), age, ancestry, United States military or veteran status, color, religion, creed, marital or domestic partner status, medical condition, genetic information, national origin, citizenship status, low-income status, or mental or physical disability so long as the essential functions of the job can be performed with or without reasonable accommodation, or any other protected category under federal, state, or local law. Learn more about your rights under Federal laws and supplemental language at Labor Laws Posters.

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