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$56K

How much do space program jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for space program in the United States is $39,683.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34,000.00 and $39,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive in a Space Program career, you typically need advanced education in engineering, physics, or a related field, along with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities. Familiarity with specialized software (such as MATLAB, CAD, or mission planning tools), and certifications in project management or aerospace systems are often required. Exceptional teamwork, communication, and adaptability are crucial soft skills for collaborating on complex, high-stakes projects. These competencies ensure successful mission planning, execution, and innovation in the challenging environment of space exploration.

What is the difference between Space Program vs Satellite Technician?

AspectSpace ProgramSatellite Technician
Required CredentialsEngineering degrees, specialized training in aerospaceTechnical diploma or associate degree, electronics or telecommunications training
Work EnvironmentResearch facilities, launch sites, mission controlField sites, satellite ground stations, repair workshops
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, aerospace companies, research institutionsSatellite service providers, telecommunications companies, government agencies

While both roles involve working with space technology, a Space Program focuses on planning, developing, and managing space missions, often requiring advanced engineering skills. A Satellite Technician specializes in maintaining, repairing, and installing satellite systems, typically with technical certifications. Both careers are vital in the space industry but differ in scope, responsibilities, and required qualifications.

What is a space program?

A space program is an organized effort, typically led by a government or private agency, to explore, research, and utilize outer space. Space programs often focus on launching satellites, sending astronauts into space, conducting scientific experiments, and advancing technology for space exploration. Notable examples include NASA's Artemis program and SpaceX's commercial launch initiatives. These programs contribute to scientific knowledge, technological innovation, and sometimes international cooperation. They play a crucial role in expanding our understanding of the universe and developing new applications that benefit life on Earth.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in a space program, and how can applicants prepare for them?

Professionals in a space program often encounter challenges such as working within strict safety protocols, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams across various time zones, and adapting to rapidly evolving technology. Applicants can prepare by developing strong communication skills, staying current with advancements in aerospace engineering and project management, and demonstrating adaptability through prior teamwork or technical experiences. Emphasizing a commitment to continuous learning and problem-solving can also help applicants thrive in the dynamic environment of a space program.
What cities are hiring for Space Program jobs? Cities with the most Space Program job openings:
What states have the most Space Program jobs? States with the most job openings for Space Program jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Space Program jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Space Program jobs are:
Space Program jobs near you
Infographic showing various Space Program job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 7% Temporary, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,683 per year, or $19.1 per hour.
Space Program/Portfolio Analyst

Space Program/Portfolio Analyst

Riverside Research

Arlington, VA

$130K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Riverside Overview

Riverside Research is an independent National Security Nonprofit dedicated to research and development in the national interest. We provide high-end technical services, research and development, and prototype solutions to some of the country’s most challenging technical problems. All Riverside Research opportunities require U.S. Citizenship.

Position Overview

Riverside Research is seeking a Portfolio and Program Analyst to support the Defense Innovation Unit's (DIU). This dynamic role will support DIU's Space Portfolio in its efforts to identify, attract, and acquire cutting-edge commercial technologies to support Department of Defense. This role will provide data analysis along with cost, schedule, performance, and execution tracking supporting the program managers, commercial vendors, and mission partners working within the DIU Space Portfolio. The individual must have experience providing programmatic support or program controls support for DoD programs. The individual is a highly organized analyst with excellent communication and presentation skills. Prior experience supporting DoD acquisitions is highly desired. The position will collaborate with teams of commercial and military program leads, scientists, engineers, and other stakeholders, and is based in Arlington, VA with alternate locations: Austin, TX; Boston, MA; and Mountain View, CA.

Responsibilities

    • Provide business operations and professional support services to the Portfolio Director and team of Space Program Managers and Commercial Engagement team
    • Support the Portfolio Director and core DIU mission in acting as an interface between the DoD, entrepreneurs, venture communities, and commercial technology companies
    • Develop and maintain high-level knowledge on projects across the portfolio and assist the Portfolio Director, PMs, and Acquisition Team in managing the project pipeline and data retrieval
    • Support DIU’s acquisition processes and review and evaluate commercial prototype proposals
    • Support Space Portfolio leadership with development of weekly reporting materials and execution of monthly Portfolio Management Reviews
    • Data entry ensuring key contractual information is accurately reflected in SalesForce.
    • Support DIU Space Portfolio PMs with SalesForce updates
    • Support to DIU Space Portfolio leadership, Acquisition team, and PMs with data retrieval
    • Support Space Portfolio leadership with development of weekly reporting materials and execution of monthly Portfolio Management Reviews
    • Ability to understand and apply DIU's Commercial Solutions Opening process
    • Support content curation for the Portfolio and DIU marketing, including technical writing, draft and editing of presentations, reports, project summaries and achievements, meeting minutes, and white papers
    • Support in the cost, schedule, performance, and execution tracking of DIU Space Portfolio projects, other program management and program controls duties as assigned

Qualifications

Required Qualifications/Experience

  • A minimum of 2 years of related experience with a Bachelor's degree, an advanced degree without experience, or equivalent work experience is typically required for an employee at this level.

    Required Qualifications/Experience

  • Passion for emerging IT/cybersecurity technologies
  • Strong written and oral communication skills
  • Ability to present complex content clearly and simply, tailored to diverse audiences
  • Effective organizational and time management skills
  • Demonstrated ability to take initiative and proactively lead projects through completion
  • Ability to gather and analyze qualitative and quantitative data points and produce targeted messaging and key points succinctly
  • Interest in working as part of a distributed team driven by innovation and self-motivation
  • Ability to work collaboratively and develop strong working relationships to achieve business goals
  • Proven success at managing competing priorities
  • Experience with MS Tools, Google Suite, and other collaboration tools
  • Active TS/SCI clearance

Preferred Qualifications/Experience

  • Previous project management or project controls experience – preferably in a technical field
  • Previous experience in research, analytical, or project management role
  • Previous experience with commercial or DoD/USG Space Programs and technology
  • Previous experience with Salesforce (Data Entry, Data Analysis, Usage)
  • Previous experience with DoD acquisition and contracting support and analysis
  • PMP and/or SAFe Agile Certifications

Global Comp

$130,000 - 150,000 This represents the typical compensation range for this position based on experience, location and other factors.

Closing Statement

Riverside Research Institute is a not-for-profit, technology-oriented defense company, where service to our customers and support of our staff is our overall mission. Riverside is an affirmative action-equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws regarding recruitment and hiring. Riverside offers comprehensive compensation and benefit packages to our employees. Riverside bases its employment decisions solely on technical experience, qualifications and other job-related criteria related to our organizational purpose as a not-for-profit company, and without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex marital status, sexual orientation, national origin, physical or mental disability, veteran’s status or any other status legally protected by applicable federal, state, and local law.

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