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Space Science Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

Harvard University

Development Officer

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$59/hr

Their work not only advances cutting-edge space science, but also informs and influences government, industry, civil society, and communities, helping to shape the future of the field. Reporting to ...

Harvard University

Development Officer

Cambridge, MA · On-site

Their work not only advances cutting-edge space science, but also informs and influences government, industry, civil society, and communities, helping to shape the future of the field. Reporting to ...

Varsity Tutors

Middle School Science Tutor

Cambridge, MA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of life science including cells, genetics, and ecosystems, earth science including plate tectonics, weather, and space, physical science including forces, energy, and chemical ...

Varsity Tutors

Middle School Science Tutor

Boston, MA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of life science including cells, genetics, and ecosystems, earth science including plate tectonics, weather, and space, physical science including forces, energy, and chemical ...

Varsity Tutors

Middle School Science Tutor

Lynn, MA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of life science including cells, genetics, and ecosystems, earth science including plate tectonics, weather, and space, physical science including forces, energy, and chemical ...

Varsity Tutors

Middle School Science Tutor

Waltham, MA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of life science including cells, genetics, and ecosystems, earth science including plate tectonics, weather, and space, physical science including forces, energy, and chemical ...

Varsity Tutors

Middle School Science Tutor

Lowell, MA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of life science including cells, genetics, and ecosystems, earth science including plate tectonics, weather, and space, physical science including forces, energy, and chemical ...

Varsity Tutors

Middle School Science Tutor

Newton, MA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of life science including cells, genetics, and ecosystems, earth science including plate tectonics, weather, and space, physical science including forces, energy, and chemical ...

Varsity Tutors

Middle School Science Tutor

Quincy, MA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of life science including cells, genetics, and ecosystems, earth science including plate tectonics, weather, and space, physical science including forces, energy, and chemical ...

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All JobsSpace Science JobsSpace Science Jobs in Boston, MA

Space Science information

See Boston, MA salary details

$314.5K

$331.4K

$346.6K

How much do space science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for space science in Boston, MA is $331,352.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $323,200.00 and $339,500.00 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.
More about Space Science jobs
What are popular job titles related to Space Science jobs in Boston, MA? For Space Science jobs in Boston, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Space Science jobs in Boston, MA look for? The top searched job categories for Space Science jobs in Boston, MA are:
What cities near Boston, MA are hiring for Space Science jobs? Cities near Boston, MA with the most Space Science job openings:
Space Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Space Science job openings in Boston, MA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 85% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 80% In-person, 7% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $331,352 per year, or $159.3 per hour.

Astrophysicist, (Postdoctoral Research Fellow) (IS-1330-11)

Smithsonian Institution

Cambridge, MA • On-site

Temporary

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 11 days ago

Smithsonian Institution rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 25 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 29 rated museums

Job description

OPENING DATE: July 23, 2026
CLOSING DATE: July 30, 2026
TYPE OF POSITION: Trust Fund (Non-Federal), Temporary Not to Exceed One Year 
DIVISION: High Energy Astrophysics Division
LOCATION: Cambridge, MA  02138
AREA OF CONSIDERATION: This position is open to all eligible candidates.

What are Trust Fund Positions?
Trust Fund positions are unique to the Smithsonian. They are paid for from a variety of sources, including the Smithsonian endowment, revenue from our business activities, donations, grants and contracts. Trust employees are not part of the civil service, nor does trust fund employment lead to Federal status. The salary ranges for trust positions are generally the same as for federal positions and in many cases trust and federal employees work side by side. Trust employees have their own benefit program, which may include Health, Dental & Vision Insurance, Life Insurance, Transit/Commuter Benefits, Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance, Annual and Sick Leave, Family Friendly Leave, 403b Retirement Plan, Discounts for Smithsonian Memberships, Museum Stores and Restaurants, Credit Union, Smithsonian Early Enrichment Center (Childcare), Flexible Spending Account (Health & Dependent Care). 

Conditions of Employment
  • Pass Pre-employment Background Check and Subsequent Background Investigation, as required.
  • Complete a Probationary Period if applicable. 
  • Maintain a Bank Account for Direct Deposit/Electronic Transfer.
  • The position is open to all candidates eligible to work in the United States.  Proof of eligibility to work in U.S. is not required to apply.
  • Applicants must meet all qualification and eligibility requirements within 30 days of the closing date of this announcement. 
INTRODUCTION
The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory (SAO) is at the forefront, internationally, of the scientific exploration of the universe. SAO combines its resources with those of the Harvard College Observatory to form the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics (CfA). The CfA is the best-known astrophysics center in the world. Its programs range from ground-based astronomy and astrophysics research to space-based research, the engineering and development of major scientific instrumentation for space launch and use in large ground-based facilities, and research designed to improve science education. The research objectives of SAO are carried out primarily with the support of Government and Smithsonian Institution funds, with additional philanthropic support.  Government funds are in the form of Federal appropriations or the form of contracts and grants from other agencies. In contrast, Institution funds are available to SAO through grants from the Institution's Restricted Funds, Special Purpose Funds, Bureau Activities, Business Activities, and non-Federal contracts and grants. 
SUMMARY
This is a time-limited position for an Astrophysicist (Post-doctoral Research Fellow) in the High Energy Astrophysics Division of the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory.  The purpose of this position is to train postdoctoral researchers to conceive, plan, and conduct highly specialized research in the incumbent's area of expertise. The incumbent will undertake and develop a program of research into the properties of black holes and neutron stars, utilizing Xray spectroscopy and theoretical studies of accretion and wind outflows, potentially coupled with multiwavelength data. 
 
1. Participate in and carry out scientific research involving a program of high-resolution spectroscopy and timing studies of compact objects in XRBs and AGN under the direction and supervision of the Principle Investigator
2. Participate in the preparation and submission of proposals for studies using appropriate space-based facilities such as XRISM, XMM-Newton, NuSTAR, NICER, etc.
3. Prepares papers for publication in scientific journals and and prepares and presents findings at scientific meetings on the results of the high-resolution spectroscopy and timing studies of compact objects to improve our understanding of the accretion physics, wind energetics, and the geometry of their innermost regions.
4. Utilize advanced numerical and statistical methods to apply complex models to the observed data.

5. Performs other duties as assigned.

 
Basic Requirements:
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.
In addition to the basic requirements, candidates for the grade 11 must also possess one of the following:
A. Master's or equivalent graduate degree; or
B. Minimum of one-year specialized experience equivalent to at least grade 9 in the normal line of progression for this occupation.  Specialized experience is experience that has equipped the applicant with the particular competencies/knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position such as experience with time-dependent photoionization modeling and reflection modeling ; or
C. Combination of successfully completed graduate level education and experience equivalent to the above.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities required:

Ability to perform scientific research as may be evidenced by receipt of a Ph.D. 
Knowledge of and the ability to utilize spectral fitting with complex models in XSPEC or SPEX using advanced methods to characterize the parameter space and identify absolute minima from local minima.
Knowledge of and the ability to utilize timing analysis methods of point sources in X-ray astronomy to identify the geometry and structure of the innermost regions in the source.
Ability to present findings in a publishable format and to present material at professional meetings.
Ability to apply modern computer technology to the solution of scientific programs.
Knowledge of scientific programming, modern methods of software generation, verification, and documentation.



 
Education completed outside the United States must be deemed equivalent to higher education programs of U.S. Institutions by an organization that specializes in the interpretation of foreign educational credentials. This documentation is the responsibility of the applicant and should be included as part of your application package.
 
Any false statement in your application may result in rejection of your application and may also result in termination after employment begins.
  
The Smithsonian Institution values and seeks a diverse workforce. Join us in "Inspiring Generations through Knowledge and Discovery."
 
Resumes should include a description of your paid and non-paid work experience that is related to this job; starting and ending dates of job (month and year); and average number of hours worked per week.  
What To Expect Next: Once the vacancy announcement closes, a review of your resume will be compared against the qualification and experience requirements related to this job. After review of applicant resumes is complete, qualified candidates will be referred to the hiring manager.
 
Relocation expenses are not paid.
Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
The Smithsonian Institution provides reasonable accommodation to applicants with disabilities where appropriate. Applicants requiring reasonable accommodation should contact hr@cfa.harvard.edu.  Determinations on requests for reasonable accommodation will be made on a case-by-case basis.  To learn more, please review the Smithsonian's Accommodation Procedures.
 
The Smithsonian Institution is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We believe that a workforce comprising a variety of educational, cultural, and experiential backgrounds support and enhance our daily work life and contribute to the richness of our exhibitions and programs. See Smithsonian EEO program information: https://www.si.edu/oeesd.

The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity in our workplace. Please visit the SAO website at http://www.cfa.harvard.edu/

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