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How much do space physicist jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for space physicist in the United States is $94,805.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,000.00 and $112,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Space Physicist do?

A Space Physicist studies the physical processes occurring in space, including the interactions between solar radiation, magnetic fields, and charged particles. They analyze data from satellites, space probes, and ground-based observations to understand phenomena like space weather, auroras, and cosmic rays. Their research helps improve satellite technology, predict solar storms, and enhance our understanding of planetary atmospheres and magnetospheres.

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

To thrive as a Space Physicist, you need a solid background in physics, mathematics, and space science, typically supported by an advanced degree such as a master's or PhD in a related field. Familiarity with data analysis software (like MATLAB or Python), remote sensing instruments, and experience using laboratory or satellite-based equipment is essential. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving ability, and effective collaboration and communication skills help distinguish top candidates. These skills and qualities are crucial for interpreting complex data, advancing space research, and contributing effectively to interdisciplinary scientific teams.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Space Physicist?

Space Physicists spend their days conducting research on various phenomena such as solar winds, cosmic rays, or magnetic fields, often using data from satellites and space missions. They analyze and interpret large datasets, develop computational models, design experiments, and sometimes write code to simulate physical processes. Collaboration is common, so Space Physicists regularly meet with other scientists, engineers, or project managers to discuss findings and plan future research. Additionally, they may present their results at conferences or contribute to scientific publications as part of their ongoing projects.
More about Space Physicist jobs
What cities are hiring for Space Physicist jobs? Cities with the most Space Physicist job openings:
What states have the most Space Physicist jobs? States with the most job openings for Space Physicist jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Space Physicist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Space Physicist jobs are:
Space Physicist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Space Physicist job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $94,805 per year, or $45.6 per hour.

Researcher in Space Physics

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ • On-site

$88.70K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 22 days ago

Princeton University rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 26 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

18th of 529 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Postdoctoral Research Associate and/or Senior Research Positions in Space Physics at Princeton University The Space Physics Group in the Department of Astrophysical Sciences at Princeton University anticipates offering one or more postdoctoral or senior research positions in experimental and observational space physics. The Space Physics Group conducts research in many aspects of space physics (aka heliophysics), with a strong emphasis on experimental and observational space plasma physics. Among others, the Group currently leads NASA's Interstellar Boundary Explorer (IBEX) mission, the Parker Solar Probe (PSP) Integrated Science Investigation of the Sun (ISIS) instrument suite, and the Interstellar Mapping and Acceleration Probe (IMAP) mission in development for launch in 2025 to explore the details of particle acceleration and the Sun's interaction with the local interstellar medium. See https://spacephysics.princeton.edu/ for more information about the Space Physics Group at Princeton University. The successful candidate(s) will play a significant role in one or more of the following areas: 1) analysis and publication of Energetic Neutral Atom (ENA) data and other observations from IBEX, 2) analysis and publication of energetic particle observations from ISIS, 3) analysis and publication of observations from IMAP (particularly regarding solar wind and pickup ion data), and 4) other funded space physics research within the Group. Preferred qualifications include prior experience in analyzing ENA and/or charged particle data, as well as a proven ability to lead or contribute to the rapid development and publication of numerous outstanding research articles. Experience in developing space instruments is also advantageous. A Ph.D. in Space Physics or a related field is required. The term of appointment depends on rank. Positions at the postdoctoral level are for one year, with the possibility of renewal based on satisfactory performance and continued funding. Those hired at more senior ranks may receive multi-year appointments. Interested individuals must apply online at https://www.princeton.edu/acad-positions/position/39222 and submit a curriculum vitae, bibliography, a brief statement of research interests, and contact information for three references. Letters of recommendation will also be processed through this site. Applications will continue to be accepted until the positions are filled. For further inquiries, please contact spacephysics@princeton.edu. These positions are subject to the University's background check policy. The work location for this position is in-person on the Princeton University campus.
Expected Salary Range: Postdoctoral Research Associate - $88700, Associate Research Scholar - $97500
The University considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's qualifications, work experience, education/training, key skills, market, collective bargaining agreements as applicable, and organizational considerations when extending an offer. The posted salary range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate for a full-time position; salaries for part-time positions are pro-rated accordingly.
The University also offers a comprehensive benefit program to eligible employees. Please see this link for more information.

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