1

Space Science Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

Space Science information

See Indiana salary details

$275.5K

$290.2K

$303.5K

How much do space science jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for space science in Indiana is $290,226.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $283,100.00 and $297,400.00 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 are the most commonly searched types of Space Science jobs in Indiana? The most popular types of Space Science jobs in Indiana are:
Infographic showing various Space Science job openings in Indiana as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 92% In-person, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $290,226 per year, or $139.5 per hour.
Scientist, Systems Engineering (Detection Algorithm Development)

Scientist, Systems Engineering (Detection Algorithm Development)

L3Harris Technologies

Albion, IN • On-site

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

L3Harris is dedicated to recruiting and developing high-performing talent who are passionate about what they do. Our employees are unified in a shared dedication to our customers’ mission and quest for professional growth. L3Harris provides an inclusive, engaging environment designed to empower employees and promote work-life success. Fundamental to our culture is an unwavering focus on values, dedication to our communities, and commitment to excellence in everything we do.

L3Harris is the Trusted Disruptor in defense tech. With customers’ mission-critical needs always in mind, our employees deliver end-to-end technology solutions connecting the space, air, land, sea and cyber domains in the interest of national security.

Job Title: Scientist, Systems Engineering (Detection Algorithm Development) 

Job Code:  38225

Job Location:  Fort Wayne, IN

Job Schedule: 9/80 (Every other Friday off)

 

Job Description:

The ideal candidate for this position has extensive knowledge of EO/IR image / video processing techniques that can be implemented in low size, weight, and power (SWaP) space systems. Candidate will provide direct contributions and act as a technical lead for algorithm development, analysis, integration into flight hardware, on-orbit troubleshooting, and future pursuits.

Algorithm performance plays a key role in all stages of program life cycle. Candidate needs to be comfortable working with end customers to understand requirements and capabilities define and run trade studies to meet customer requirements. Candidate will also work closely with other systems engineers to define CONOPs, ICDs, and implementation requirements.

Essential Functions:

  • Lead/support development of image and video processing algorithm solutions for space based EO/IR systems
  • Lead/support analysis of image and video processing algorithms in support of system level trade studies, requirement compliance and system characterization. Perform modeling & simulation activities to accurately model Earth observing EO/IR systems in LEO, MEO, and GEO.
  • Support systems engineering trade studies, CONOP development, and modeling/simulation efforts
  • Implement custom and OpenCV-based image/video processing algorithms in FPGAs, GPUs, or embedded systems
  • Perform rapid complex trade studies assessing a variety of algorithms to achieve optimal performance. Comfortable using tools such as NumPy, SciPy, scikit-learn, PyTorch, CV2, CUDA.
  • Familiar with Overhead Persistent InfraRed (OPIR) imagery and phenomenology
  • Develop and improve instrument documentation, processes, and test procedures
  • Support concept of operation development and requirements analysis, decomposition, and generation at various levels of the system
  • Support requirements traceability and development of test plans to cover requirements
  • Support integration and test of electro-optical/infrared systems and related hardware/software
  • Provide support to engineering in developing technical specifications, interface control documents, test plans and procedures, and test conformance to specifications
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a secret clearance

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s Degree in engineering and minimum 12 years of prior relevant experience. Graduate Degree and a minimum of 10 years of prior related experience. In lieu of a degree, minimum of 16 years of prior related experience.
  • 5+ years experience in Python, C/C++, or VHDL
  • Professional experience implementing image/video processing algorithms in FPGAs, GPUs, or embedded systems


Preferred Additional Skills:

  • Strong background in mathematics or physics
  • Experience developing embedded software / firmware
  • Ability to read/write C/C++ software
  • Inter-personal and communication skills, ability to interact with a cross functional team
  • Ability to collaborate across all levels of leadership
  • Able to work with general direction or supervision in a demanding environment
  • Experience with data analysis and/or modeling and simulation (e.g. with MATLAB/Python)
  • Experience with estimating and managing costs
  • Experience architecting, analyzing, developing, and integrating end to end systems in areas such as EO/IR, RF, or space payload and spacecraft bus subsystems
  • Familiarity with program management, cost account management, integrated product teams

#LI-KB1

L3Harris Technologies is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. L3Harris is committed to treating all employees and applicants for employment with respect and dignity and maintaining a workplace that is free from unlawful discrimination. All applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding or other related medical conditions), gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, disability, genetic information, citizenship status, characteristic or membership in any other group protected by federal, state or local laws. L3Harris maintains a drug-free workplace and performs pre-employment substance abuse testing and background checks, where permitted by law.

Please be aware many of our positions require the ability to obtain a security clearance. Security clearances may only be granted to U.S. citizens. In addition, applicants who accept a conditional offer of employment may be subject to government security investigation(s) and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.

By submitting your resume for this position, you understand and agree that L3Harris Technologies may share your resume, as well as any other related personal information or documentation you provide, with its subsidiaries and affiliated companies for the purpose of considering you for other available positions.

L3Harris Technologies is an E-Verify Employer. Please click here for the E-Verify Poster in English or Spanish. For information regarding your Right To Work, please click here for English or Spanish.