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Space Science Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Space Systems Engineering (Applied Physics) * Computer Science Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Curriculum Listing: * Naval Construction and Engineering * Nuclear Engineering ...

Space Systems Engineering (Applied Physics) * Computer Science Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Curriculum Listing: * Naval Construction and Engineering * Nuclear Engineering ...

Space Systems Engineering (Applied Physics) * Computer Science Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Curriculum Listing: * Naval Construction and Engineering * Nuclear Engineering ...

Space Systems Engineering (Applied Physics) * Computer Science Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Curriculum Listing: * Naval Construction and Engineering * Nuclear Engineering ...

Sr. EHS Engineer

Knoxville, IA · On-site

$64K - $85K/yr

Applying scientific, engineering principles and behavioral based systems to drive EHS risk ... Fall Protection, LOTO, Machine Guarding, Ergonomics, Confined Space Entry/Rescue, Chemical Safety ...

Sr. EHS Engineer

Knoxville, IA · On-site

$64K - $85K/yr

Applying scientific, engineering principles and behavioral based systems to drive EHS risk ... Fall Protection, LOTO, Machine Guarding, Ergonomics, Confined Space Entry/Rescue, Chemical Safety ...

... science. Duties and Responsibilities: It is everyone's responsibility to live out our Values and ... Perform routine lab maintenance, maintaining a clean and safe laboratory space. Handle other ...

IA

$22 - $24/hr

... science. Duties and Responsibilities: It is everyone's responsibility to live out our Values and ... Perform routine lab maintenance, maintaining a clean and safe laboratory space. Handle other ...

Analytical Chemist

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

... science. Duties and Responsibilities: It is everyone's responsibility to live out our Values and ... laboratory space. • Handle other essential tasks and responsibilities as assigned. Skills ...

Analytical Chemist

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

... science. Duties and Responsibilities: It is everyone's responsibility to live out our Values and ... laboratory space. • Handle other essential tasks and responsibilities as assigned. Skills ...

Lead Water Resources Engineer

Des Moines, IA · On-site +1

$130K - $160K/yr

Foth is a 100% member-owned science and engineering consulting firm headquartered in Wisconsin ... In this role, you will leverage your technical expertise nationwide in the water resources space ...

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Showing results 1-20

Space Science information

See Iowa salary details

$271.9K

$286.5K

$299.6K

How much do space science jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for space science in Iowa is $286,476.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $279,400.00 and $293,500.00 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 job categories do people searching Space Science jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Space Science jobs in Iowa are:
Infographic showing various Space Science job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $286,476 per year, or $137.7 per hour.
Engineering Duty Officer

Engineering Duty Officer

U.S. Navy

Sioux City, IA • On-site

Part-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago


United States Navy rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 378 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

38th of 46 rated military and defense


Job description

ABOUT

The United States Navy’s massive fleet of attack and defense vessels and systems all work in tandem to carry out the Navy’s most critical missions. As an Engineering Duty Officer, your job is to keep the fleet moving forward. The Navy will rely on your sharp math and science skills to design, develop and deploy the world’s fiercest ships and smartest integrated warfare systems. Roll up your sleeves, Sailor, because it’s time to put the stealth in submarines and the muscle into the modern combat fleet.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Engineering Duty Officers ensure that U.S. Naval and Joint Forces operate and fight with the most capable vessels, systems and equipment possible. Your math and science skills will be vital to constantly improving the Navy’s warfighting capability and maintaining a robust cybersecurity network.

Job responsibilities could include:

  • Conducting research on high-priority operational needs
  • Leading the design of new ships and their systems while supervising the integration of weapons and electronic systems into these ships
  • Managing the construction, delivery, maintenance, conversion, overhaul and disposal of ships, submarines and aircraft carriers
  • Overseeing the planning, execution and testing of the repair and modernization of ships and warfare systems

PAY AND BENEFITS

From the day you start, you’ll receive:

  • Competitive salary
  • Free health insurance
  • Free housing
  • A retirement plan
  • 30 days paid vacation per year

EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES

All Engineering Duty Officers are required to obtain a Master’s degree in a technical curriculum from the Naval Postgraduate School or Massachusetts Institute of Technology. This requirement is completed while serving.

Naval Postgraduate School (With Doctorate Opportunities)

Curriculum Listing:

  • Naval/Mechanical Engineering
  • Electrical/Electronics Engineering
  • Space Systems Engineering
  • Combat Systems Engineering
  • Systems Engineering
  • Space Systems Engineering (Applied Physics)
  • Computer Science

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

Curriculum Listing:

  • Naval Construction and Engineering
  • Nuclear Engineering

QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS

  • Bachelor’s degree
  • U.S. citizen or equivalent
  • 17 years of age or older

High schoolers and current undergraduates interested in becoming an EDO can enter through the Naval Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC) or through the U.S. Naval Academy. It is important to note that EDOs do not have direct accession through the USNA/NROTC commissioning sources. ED accessions are warfare-qualified Officers who are strong performers and academically qualified to pursue a technical Master’s Degree.

General qualifications may vary depending upon whether you’re currently serving, whether you’ve served before or whether you’ve never served before.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Your work as an Engineering Duty Officer is highly valued and can take you virtually anywhere. Most EDOs are stationed at shore commands in Washington, D.C., Norfolk, VA, or San Diego, CA—however, there are opportunities for exciting sea tours around the world in Australia, Canada, Italy, Japan, Singapore, Bahrain and Saudi Arabia.

PART-TIME OPPORTUNITIES

There are part-time roles as an Engineering Duty Officer in the Navy. Serving part-time as a Reserve Sailor, your duties will be carried out during your scheduled drilling and training periods. During monthly drilling, Engineering Duty Officers in the Navy Reserve typically work at a location close to their homes.


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Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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About US Navy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

National security, national security and international affairs, public safety statistics centers and offices, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US

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