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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, a strong background in physics, mathematics, and astronomy, typically supported by a relevant advanced degree (such as a PhD), is essential. Familiarity with data analysis software, programming languages (like Python or MATLAB), and experience using scientific instruments or satellite systems are commonly required. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective teamwork are important soft skills for collaborating on complex research projects. These skills and qualities are vital for producing innovative research, advancing scientific understanding, and contributing to successful space missions.

What are some common challenges space scientists face when working on international research collaborations?

Space Scientists frequently engage in international projects, which can present unique challenges such as coordinating across different time zones, navigating varying regulatory requirements, and ensuring effective communication among diverse teams. Collaborators may have different research priorities or access to technology, requiring flexibility and strong project management skills. Building strong working relationships and maintaining clear, consistent communication are essential to overcoming these challenges and achieving successful scientific outcomes.

What does a space scientist do?

A space scientist studies phenomena beyond Earth's atmosphere, such as planets, stars, galaxies, and cosmic events. They conduct research using telescopes, satellites, and spacecraft, and analyze data to better understand space and its effects on Earth. Their work can contribute to space exploration, satellite technology, climate studies, and the search for life beyond Earth. Space scientists often work for government agencies, research institutions, or private aerospace companies.

How do you become a space scientist?

To become a space scientist, you typically need at least a bachelor's degree in physics, astronomy, astrophysics, or a related field, with many roles requiring a master's or Ph.D. for research positions. Gaining experience through internships, research projects, and developing skills in data analysis, programming, and laboratory work is also important.

What do you do as a space scientist?

A space scientist researches the physical universe beyond Earth, studying phenomena such as planets, stars, and cosmic events. They analyze data from telescopes, satellites, and space missions, often using specialized software and scientific methods to understand space environments and contribute to space exploration and technology development.

What are the jobs in space science?

Jobs in space science include roles such as astrophysicist, planetary scientist, aerospace engineer, mission analyst, and space technician. These positions often require strong backgrounds in physics, astronomy, engineering, or related fields, and may involve research, data analysis, spacecraft design, or mission planning. Many roles are based at research institutions, government agencies, or private aerospace companies and may require specialized skills and certifications.
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Infographic showing various Space Scientist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, and 18% Part Time. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution.

Mission Operations Responsible Engineer/Scientist

Relativity Space

Long Beach, CA

$73K - $98K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 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

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:

We are seeking an operations responsible engineer to lead the planning, design, and execution of spacecraft operations for the Interplanetary Program's first mission. This role carries end-to-end ownership of how the spacecraft is operated - from defining the operations architecture and working directly with multiple science and instrument teams to executing operations that maximize science data collection within real-world spacecraft constraints. Automating spacecraft operations to increase spacecraft capability and efficiency is also a key goal.

This is a senior, highly technical, high-ownership role on a lean team in a fast-moving commercial environment. We are looking for someone who is energized by the challenge of building an operations system that can run a complex, multi-instrument science mission millions of kilometers away and finds deep satisfaction in maximizing the science returned by the mission.

About You

  • Bachelor's degree in planetary science, aerospace engineering, electrical engineering, computer science, or a related technical discipline
  • 5+ years of experience in planetary missions, with demonstrated progression into increasing ownership
  • Experience with scripting (e.g., Python) for data analysis or operational tasks
  • Proficiency working in Linux/Unix environments
  • Ability to reason through cross-subsystem interactions and their operational implications, make decisions with incomplete information and under time pressure
  • Excellent communication skills across technical disciplines: engineering, science, software

Nice to haves but not required

  • Experience with deep-space mission operations, including surface or orbital science campaigns
  • Experience designing onboard autonomy, automated scheduling systems, or ground-based automation frameworks for flight operations

During critical mission phases including launch, commissioning, cruise maneuvers and early operations this position will require shift work and on-call availability. Schedule flexibility will be needed as operational needs evolve. Occasional travel (<10%) to partner institutions and mission integration sites may be required.

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