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Space Science Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$199K/yr

You will serve as the Superintendent, Space Science Division located at the Naval Research Laboratory, Washington, DC. You will be responsible for planning and supervising the Division's scientific ...

$199K/yr

You will serve as the Superintendent, Space Science Division located at the Naval Research Laboratory, Washington, DC. You will be responsible for planning and supervising the Division's scientific ...

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How much do space science jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for space science in the United States is $305,000.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $297,500.00 and $312,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What professions make 200,000 a year without a degree?

In the field of space science, most high-paying roles typically require advanced degrees; however, some related professions such as commercial drone pilots, aerospace technicians with specialized skills, or sales managers in aerospace companies can reach or exceed $200,000 annually through experience, certifications, and performance. These roles often emphasize technical skills, industry knowledge, and certifications over formal degrees.

What is space science?

Space science is the study of everything in outer space, including planets, stars, galaxies, and the physics that governs them. It encompasses disciplines such as astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, and space exploration. Professionals in this field use telescopes, satellites, and spacecraft to observe and analyze celestial phenomena. Space science helps us understand the origins of the universe, the possibility of life elsewhere, and the future of space exploration.

What Are Space Science Careers?

There are a wide variety of space science careers to choose from that involve all aspects of studying the earth, atmosphere, other planets, and the exploration of the universe. NASA provides many employment opportunities aside from becoming an astronaut. As a space scientist, you conduct research and studies in a specialty field such as biology, chemistry, meteorology, physics, geology, or even pharmacology, in which you use substances from space to develop new medications. Engineers have responsibilities including developing advanced technology such as satellites and the spacecraft that make space exploration possible. Specialties as an engineer include robotics, telecommunication, computers, avionics, instrumentation, and more. There are also technologists and technicians whose duties revolve around working with the engineer to test this technology.

Does NASA hire astrochemists?

NASA employs astrochemists as part of its scientific research teams to study chemical processes in space, such as in interstellar clouds and planetary atmospheres. These roles typically require advanced degrees in chemistry, physics, or astronomy, along with experience in laboratory analysis and data interpretation. Astrochemists at NASA often work on research projects, data analysis, and developing models related to space chemistry.

What careers are in Space Science?

Careers in space science include roles such as astrophysicist, planetary scientist, aerospace engineer, and space mission analyst. These positions often require strong backgrounds in physics, astronomy, engineering, or related fields, along with skills in data analysis and familiarity with scientific tools and software.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Space Scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Space Scientist, you need a strong background in physics, mathematics, astronomy, and often a Ph.D. in a related field. Familiarity with data analysis software, satellite instrumentation, programming languages like Python or MATLAB, and experience with telescopic and spacecraft systems are typically required. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, teamwork, and effective scientific communication are vital soft skills. These competencies enable Space Scientists to conduct meaningful research, interpret complex data, and collaborate on missions that advance our understanding of the universe.

What are the career options in Space Science?

Careers in space science include roles such as astrophysicist, planetary scientist, aerospace engineer, and space mission analyst. These positions often require strong backgrounds in physics, astronomy, engineering, or related fields, along with skills in data analysis and familiarity with tools like telescopes and simulation software.

What are some common challenges faced by space scientists when working on research projects?

Space scientists often encounter challenges such as limited access to specialized equipment, strict project timelines, and the need to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams across different organizations or countries. Additionally, securing funding for research and navigating the complexities of data analysis from space missions can be demanding. Adaptability, strong communication skills, and perseverance are important for overcoming these obstacles and successfully contributing to scientific advancements in the field.
What cities are hiring for Space Science jobs? Cities with the most Space Science job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Space Science jobs? The most popular types of Space Science jobs are:
What states have the most Space Science jobs? States with the most job openings for Space Science jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Space Science jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Space Science jobs are:
Infographic showing various Space Science job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $305,000 per year, or $146.6 per hour.
SUPERINTENDENT, SPACE SCIENCE DIVISION

SUPERINTENDENT, SPACE SCIENCE DIVISION

US Department of the Navy

On-site

$199K/yr

Other

Posted 7 days ago


United States Navy rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 371 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

38th of 46 rated military and defense


Job description

You will serve as the Superintendent, Space Science Division located at the Naval Research Laboratory, Washington, DC. You will be responsible for planning and supervising the Division's scientific program. The current staffing for the Division is composed of over 120 full-time government scientists and engineers, contractors, postdoctoral students, visiting faculty, and students. The Superintendent oversees a total budget of $55M annually.Qualifications:Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution. Candidates will not be hired based on their race, sex, color, religion, or national origin.
To meet the minimum qualification requirements for this position, you must show that you possess the Executive Core Qualifications (ECQ) and Technical Qualifications (TQ) related to this position within your resume - NOT TO EXCEED 2 PAGES. Resumes over the 2-page limit, will not be reviewed beyond page 2 or may be disqualified. Your resume should include examples of experience, education, and accomplishments applicable to the qualification(s). If your resume does not reflect demonstrated evidence of these qualifications, you may not receive consideration for the position.
TECHNICAL QUALIFICATIONS (TQs): Your resume should demonstrate accomplishments that would satisfy the technical qualifications.
TQ1. Demonstrated competence in physics and/or engineering sciences which provided documented, broad and comprehensive knowledge of space science research.
TQ2. Ability to formulate and develop innovative scientific program proposals in space science research and "market" these proposals to sponsoring activities or executive level management. Included in this is the ability to gain acceptance of and execute highly complex technical programs.
EXECUTIVE CORE QUALIFICATIONS (ECQs): In addition to the Technical Qualification Requirements listed above, all new entrants into the Senior Executive Service (SES) under a career appointment will be assessed for executive competency against the following five mandatory ECQs. If your 2-page resume does not reflect demonstrated evidence of the ECQs and TQs, you may not receive further consideration for the position.
ECQ 1: Commitment to the Rule of Law and the Principles of the American Founding - This core qualification requires a demonstrated knowledge of the American system of government, commitment to uphold the Constitution and the rule of law, and commitment to serve the American people.
ECQ 2: Driving Efficiency - This core qualification involves the demonstrated ability to strategically and efficiently manage resources, budget effectively, cut wasteful spending, and pursue efficiency through process and technological upgrades.
ECQ 3: Merit and Competence - This core qualification involves the demonstrated knowledge, ability and technical competence to effectively and reliably produce work that is of exceptional quality.
ECQ 4: Leading People - This core qualification involves the demonstrated ability to lead and inspire a group toward meeting the organization's vision, mission, and goals, and to drive a high-performance, high-accountability culture. This includes, when necessary, the ability to lead people through change and to hold individuals accountable.
ECQ 5: Achieving Results - This core qualification involves the demonstrated ability to achieve both individual and organizational results, and to align results to stated goals from superiors.
Note: If you are a member of the SES or have been certified through successful participation in an OPM approved SES Candidate Development Program (SESCDP), or have SES reinstatement eligibility, you do not need to respond to the ECQs. Instead, you should attach proof (e.g., SF-50, Certification by OPM's SES Qualifications Review Board (QRB)) of your eligibility for noncompetitive appointment to the SES.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment.
Additional qualification information can be found from the following Office of Personnel Management website: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/senior-executive-service/
and
General Physical Science series, 1301
Physics Series, 1310
Astronomy and Space Science Series,1330
Education:Applicants must meet at least one of the following positive education qualifications requirements of the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualifications Standards Manual:

For 1301-General Physical Science Series
a. A degree in physical science, engineering, or mathematics that included 24 semester hours in physical science and/or related engineering science such as mechanics, dynamics, properties of materials, and electronics; OR
b. Combination of education and experience -- education equivalent to one of the majors shown in A above that included at least 24 semester hours in physical science and/or related engineering science, plus appropriate experience or additional education;
For 1310 - Physics Series:
a. A degree in physics; or related degree that included at least 24 semester hours in physics; OR
b. Combination of education and experience -- courses equivalent to a major in physics totaling at least 24 semester hours, plus appropriate experience or additional education; *** In either A or B above, the courses must have included a fundamental course in general physics and, in addition, courses in any two of the following: electricity and magnetism, heat, light, mechanics, modern physics, and sound.
For 1330 - Astronomy and Space Science Series:
a. A degree in one or a combination of astronomy, physics, mathematics, space science, or electronics. The course work must have included differential and integral calculus and 12 semester hours in astronomy and/or physics; OR
b. Combination of education and experience -- at least 30 semester hours of courses equivalent to a major in any combination of astronomy, space science, physics, mathematics, and electronics, with required course work as shown in A above, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
Employment Type: OTHER

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