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Space Science Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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How much do space science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for space science in California is $301,005.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $293,600.00 and $308,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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.

Is space science a good career?

Space science is a specialized field that involves studying celestial bodies, astrophysics, and space technology, often requiring advanced degrees such as a master's or Ph.D. Skills in mathematics, programming, and data analysis are important, and employment can be found in research institutions, government agencies, and aerospace companies. The career can be competitive but offers opportunities for contributing to scientific discovery and technological innovation.

What jobs are there in space science?

Space science offers a variety of careers including astrophysicist, planetary scientist, aerospace engineer, mission analyst, and space technician. These roles often require strong backgrounds in physics, engineering, or astronomy, and may involve working with telescopes, spacecraft, or data analysis tools in research institutions, government agencies, or private companies.
More about Space Science jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Space Science jobs in California?

The most popular types of Space Science jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Space Science jobs in California?

For Space Science jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Space Science jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Space Science jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Space Science jobs?

Cities in California with the most Space Science job openings:

Space Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Space Science job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Part Time, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $301,005 per year, or $144.7 per hour.

Staff Avionics Mechanical Engineer

Relativity Space

Long Beach, CA

$150K - $226K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Relativity Space rating

9.7

Company rating: 9.7 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 72 rated aerospace companies

Job description

At Relativity Space, we're building rockets to serve today's needs and tomorrow's breakthroughs. Our Terran R vehicle will deliver customer payloads to orbit, meeting the growing demand for launch capacity. But that's just the start. Achieving commercial success with Terran R will unlock new opportunities to advance science, exploration, and innovation, pioneering progress that reaches beyond the known.

Joining Relativity means becoming part of something where autonomy, ownership, and impact exist at every level. Here, you're not just executing tasks; you're solving problems that haven't been solved before, helping develop a rocket, a factory, and a business from the ground up. Whether you're in propulsion, manufacturing, software, avionics, or a corporate function, you'll collaborate across teams, shape decisions, and see your work come to life in record time. Relativity is a place where creativity and technical rigor go hand in hand, and your voice will help define the stories we're writing together. Now is a unique moment in time where it's early enough to leave your mark on the product, the process, and the culture, but far enough along that Terran R is tangible and picking up momentum. The most meaningful work of your career is waiting. Join us.

About the Team:

The Interplanetary Sciences Program was established to expand access to scientific exploration across our solar system. Its mission is to make planetary research faster, more affordable, and more capable than ever before by rethinking how science missions are designed, built, and operated. The program aims to enable scientists to send instruments to distant worlds without decades of development or prohibitive costs. By creating a sustainable model for interplanetary exploration, we are transforming space science from an occasional event into a continuous process of discovery that accelerates knowledge, broadens participation, and inspires the next generation of explorers.

About the Role:

As a Staff Avionics Mechanical Engineer, you will own the design, development, and delivery of all mechanical hardware supporting our next-generation space science avionics platforms. This includes enclosures, mounting structures, thermal accommodations, and interfaces to spacecraft systems. You will be responsible for ensuring the delivered Avionics can survive launch and space environments, and for solving complex thermal and structural challenges in tight, mass-efficient packaging.

This is a hands-on role for a self-driven engineer who thrives in a fast-paced, prototype-heavy environment. You'll work from first principles to rapidly iterate on designs, perform analysis and testing, and lead the delivery of flight-ready avionics mechanical systems.

About You:

  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field
  • 7+ years of experience in mechanical design, packaging, or thermal management for aerospace or ruggedized electronic systems
  • Proven ability to deliver mechanical systems from concept through qualification and flight
  • Proficiency with CAD (SolidWorks, NX, or equivalent) and analysis tools for structural and thermal performance
  • Hands-on experience building, testing, and debugging hardware in a lab environment
  • Strong communication skills and comfort working cross-functionally in a fast-paced, rapidly iterating team environment

Nice to haves but not required:

  • Familiarity with NASA or other spaceflight structural verification standards, environmental testing and qualification
  • Experience designing mechanical systems for spaceflight avionics or payloads
  • Experience with high-density electronics cooling (conduction, heat pipes, cold plates)
  • Knowledge of materials and processes for vacuum and radiation environments

At Relativity Space, we are committed to transparency and fairness in our compensation practices. Actual compensation will be determined based on experience, qualifications, and other job-related factors.
Compensation is only one part of our total rewards package. Relativity Space offers competitive salary and equity, a generous PTO and sick leave policy, parental leave, an annual learning and development stipend, and more! To see some of the benefits & perks we offer, please visit here.

Hiring Range:
$150,000—$226,000 USD

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.

If you need a reasonable accommodation, please contact us at accommodations@relativityspace.com.

Please note: Relativity Space does not accept unsolicited resumes, candidate profiles, or referrals from recruitment agencies or search firms. Any unsolicited submission - via email, our website, social media, or directly to an employee - will be deemed the property of Relativity Space, and no fee will be owed absent a current, fully executed agreement with Talent Acquisition that specifically authorizes submissions for the applicable role.

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