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Space Science Jobs in New Mexico (NOW HIRING)

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Space Science information

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$280.5K

$295.6K

$309.1K

How much do space science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for space science in New Mexico is $295,567.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $288,300.00 and $302,800.00 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.

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

The most popular types of Space Science jobs in New Mexico are:

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

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

What cities in New Mexico are hiring for Space Science jobs?

Cities in New Mexico with the most Space Science job openings:

Infographic showing various Space Science job openings in New Mexico as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 73% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $295,567 per year, or $142.1 per hour.

Laboratory Space Scientist (Scientist 3)

Los Alamos, NM • On-site


Los Alamos National Laboratory
Scientific Research and Development Services • 5 - 10K employees

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

8th of 120 rated laboratories

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer


Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 hours ago


Job description

Description
Job Title Laboratory Space Scientist (Scientist 3)
Location Los Alamos, NM, US
Organization Name ISR-1/Space Science & Applications
Minimum Salary 128000
Maximum Salary 215900
This position is open for external candidates only to apply.
What You Will Do
The Space Science and Applications Group (ISR-1) in the Intelligence & Space Research Division (ISR) is seeking an experienced space scientist to provide leadership in laboratory-based research, overseeing experimental design and execution, developing and executing space instrument calibration plans, and serving a key subject matter expert within a technically diverse and highly collaborative R&D organization.
ISR-1 conducts cutting-edge work in space-based national security and space environment science, with expertise spanning source phenomenology, propagation, heliospheric and magnetospheric physics, and advanced sensor and algorithm development in particle and plasma detection. The group consists of approximately 30 staff scientists and postdoctoral researchers, along with a cohort of students and affiliates collaborating across multiple LANL organizations.
In this role, you will:
  • Oversee activities within multiple space science research laboratories
  • Perform space instrument design, development, calibration, and data analysis
  • Serve as a subject matter expert for ion beam, plasma, and charged particle source operations, characterization, and maintenance
  • Assist in flight instrument operations planning and execution
  • Perform flight data validation and anomaly diagnosis
  • Mentor students, postdocs, and junior staff

What You Need
Minimum Job Requirements:

Safety and Professional Standards
Demonstrated commitment to maintaining and strengthening a safe, secure, and respectful work environment consistent with Laboratory expectations (e.g., HPI and/or SCoR principles).
Technical Expertise
Recognized scientific and technical competence in one or more ISR-1 mission areas, including space science, heliospheric or magnetospheric physics, and/or particle and plasma detection. Demonstrated record of successful research contributions and proposal development.
Leadership and Influence
Demonstrated experience leading or contributing to technical teams, projects, or organizational efforts. Ability to influence across organizational boundaries, navigate competing priorities, and build trust.
Communication
Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to articulate complex technical and institutional considerations to diverse audiences.
Education/Experience
Position requires a Master's degree in a STEM field from an accredited college or university and 6 years of relevant experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience directly related to the occupation.
Desired Qualifications:
  • Current DOE Q clearance
  • PhD in a relevant scientific or engineering discipline
  • Working knowledge of DOE, NNSA, DoD, NASA, or related mission agencies
  • Demonstrated experience mentoring students, postdocs, or coaching early career researchers

Physical Requirements:
  • Physical movement between buildings located primarily within a half-mile radius, which may include movement across uneven and/or inclined ground.
  • Physical movement within large interior facility spaces and corridors, which may require travel up and down stairs.
  • Direct interaction with hardware, equipment, and instruments in office and laboratory environments.

Work Environment:
Work Location : The work location for this position is onsite and located in Los Alamos, NM. All work locations are at the discretion of management.
Position commitment: Regular appointment employees are required to serve a period of continuous service in their current position in order to be eligible to apply for posted jobs throughout the Laboratory. If an employee has not served the time required, they may only apply for Laboratory jobs with the documented approval of their Division Leader. The position commitment for this position is 1 year.
Note to Applicants:
Due to federal restrictions contained in the current National Defense Authorization Act, citizens of the People's Republic of China-including the special administrative regions of Hong Kong and Macau-as well as citizens of the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (North Korea), and the Russian Federation, who are not Lawful Permanent Residents ("green card" holders) are prohibited from accessing facilities that support the mission, functions, and operations of national security laboratories and nuclear weapons production facilities, which includes Los Alamos National Laboratory.
Where You Will Work
Located in beautiful northern New Mexico, Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is a multidisciplinary research institution engaged in strategic science on behalf of national security. Our generous benefits package includes:
  • PPO or High Deductible medical insurance with the same large nationwide network
  • Dental and vision insurance
  • Free basic life and disability insurance
  • Paid childbirth and parental leave
  • Award-winning 401(k) (6% matching plus 3.5% annually)
  • Learning opportunities and tuition assistance
  • Flexible schedules and time off (PTO and holidays)
  • Onsite gyms and wellness programs
  • Extensive relocation packages (outside a 50 mile radius)

Additional Details
Directive 206.2 - Employment with Triad requires a favorable decision by NNSA indicating employee is suitable under NNSA Supplemental Directive 206.2. Please note that this requirement applies only to citizens of the United States. Foreign nationals are subject to a similar requirement under DOE Order 142.3A.
No Clearance: Position does not require a security clearance. Selected candidates will be subject to drug testing and other pre-employment background checks.
New-Employment Drug Test: The Laboratory requires successful applicants to complete a new-employment drug test and maintains a substance abuse policy that includes random drug testing. Although New Mexico and other states have legalized the use of marijuana, use and possession of marijuana remain illegal under federal law. A positive drug test for marijuana will result in termination of employment, even if the use was pre-offer.
Regular position: Term status Laboratory employees applying for regular-status positions are converted to regular status.
Equal Opportunity: Los Alamos National Laboratory is an equal opportunity employer. All employment practices are based on qualification and merit, without regard to protected categories such as race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status or spousal affiliation, physical or mental disability, medical conditions, pregnancy, status as a protected veteran, genetic information, or citizenship within the limits imposed by federal, state, and local laws and regulations. The Laboratory is also committed to making our workplace accessible to individuals with disabilities and will provide reasonable accommodations, upon request, for individuals to participate in the application and hiring process. To request such an accommodation, please send an email to applyhelp@lanl.gov or call (505)-664-6947.
Employment Status Full Time
Appointment Type Regular
Regular


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