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Planetary Geology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Postdoc: Lunar Volatiles

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$53K - $72K/yr

JPL's Planetary Geology group is seeking a postdoc who will join them in the study of volatiles in lunar igneous rocks. The selected postdoc will focus on the following: * Characterizing the texture ...

Postdoc: Lunar Volatiles

Campus, IL · On-site

$47K - $64K/yr

JPL's Planetary Geology group is seeking a postdoc who will join them in the study of volatiles in lunar igneous rocks. The selected postdoc will focus on the following: * Characterizing the texture ...

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How much do planetary geology jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for planetary geology in the United States is $77,030.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,000.00 and $93,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is planetary geology?

A Planetary Geology job involves studying the geology of planets, moons, asteroids, and other celestial bodies. Scientists in this field analyze surface features, rock compositions, and geological processes to understand planetary formation and evolution. They use data from spacecraft, rovers, and telescopes, as well as conduct simulations and lab experiments. Jobs in this field are typically found at space agencies, research institutions, and universities.

What does a planetary geologist do?

Planetary geologists often split their time between analyzing data from spacecraft or telescopes, interpreting remote sensing images, running simulations or laboratory experiments, and writing research papers or grant proposals. They frequently collaborate with other scientists, such as astronomers and physicists, and may participate in meetings with space agencies or research organizations. Fieldwork, though less common, may also occur when comparing Earth analog sites to planetary features. This dynamic role requires adaptability and a willingness to stay current with new scientific discoveries and technologies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in planetary geology?

To excel in planetary geology, a solid background in geology, planetary science, and data analysis—often supported by an advanced degree—is essential. Familiarity with remote sensing tools, geospatial analysis software like GIS, and laboratory techniques for analyzing extraterrestrial samples enhances effectiveness in the field. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively distinguish top performers. These qualifications are critical for accurately interpreting planetary data, contributing to research, and advancing knowledge of planetary processes.

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Infographic showing various Planetary Geology job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 11% Internship, 77% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,030 per year, or $37 per hour.

Supervisory Interdisciplinary

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

Mountain Home Air Force Base, ID • On-site

$106K/yr

Full-time

Posted 8 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Serve as the Resident Engineer with responsibility for field and contract administration work related to the construction program.

  • Supervise the Resident contract administration staff and work operations.

  • Perform construction management and apply construction contracting procedures and contract administration.


U.S. Department Of Defense rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 539 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

27th of 49 rated military and defense


Job description

This is a Direct Hire Authority (DHA) solicitation utilizing the DHA for Certain Position of the DoD to recruit and appoint qualified candidates to positions in the competitive service.
About the Position: Serve as the Resident Engineer with direct responsibility for field and contract administration work associated with the construction program assigned to the Resident Office. Supervise the Resident contract administration staff and work operations.Qualifications:Who May Apply: US Citizens
In order to qualify, you must meet the education and/or experience requirements described below. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student; social). You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Your resume must clearly describe your relevant experience; if qualifying based on education, your transcripts will be required as part of your application. Additional information about transcripts is in this document.
Basic Requirement for Supervisory Architect:
A. Degree: Bachelor's degree (or higher degree) in architecture or in a related field that included 60 semester hours of course work in architecture or related disciplines of which at least (1) 30 semester hours were in architectural design, and (2) 6 semester hours were in each of the following: structural technology, properties of materials and methods of construction, and environmental control systems.
OR
B. Combination of Education and Experience: Please see here -
Basic Requirement for Supervisory Civil, Mechanical, and Electrical Engineer:
A. Degree: Bachelor's degree (or higher degree) in engineering. To be acceptable, the program must: (1) lead to a bachelor's degree (or higher degree) in a school of engineering with at least one program accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET); OR (2) include differential and integral calculus and courses (more advanced than first-year physics and chemistry) in five of the following seven areas of engineering science or physics: (a) statics, dynamics; (b) strength of materials (stress-strain relationships); (c) fluid mechanics, hydraulics; (d) thermodynamics; (e) electrical fields and circuits; (f) nature and properties of materials (relating particle and aggregate structure to properties); and (g) any other comparable area of fundamental engineering science or physics, such as optics, heat transfer, soil mechanics, or electronics.
OR
B. Combination of Education and Experience: Please see here -
Basic Requirement for Supervisory Geologist:
A. Degree: Bachelor's degree (or higher degree) in geology, plus 20 additional semester hours in any combination of mathematics, physics, chemistry, biological science, structural, chemical, civil, mining or petroleum engineering, computer science, planetary geology, comparative planetology, geophysics, meteorology, hydrology, oceanography, physical geography, marine geology, and cartography.
OR
B. Combination of Education and Experience: Please see here -
In addition to meeting the basic requirement above, to qualify for this position you must also meet the qualification requirements listed below:
Specialized Experience: One year of specialized experience which includes experience with civil works and/or military construction directly involved with construction management, application of a broad range of environmental principles in accomplishing the construction mission; and applying construction contracting procedures and contract administration. This definition of specialized experience is typical of work performed at the next lower grade/level position in the federal service (GS-12 or above)..
Some federal jobs allow you to substitute your education for the required experience in order to qualify. For this job, you must meet the qualification requirement using experience alone--no substitution of education for experience is permitted.
Selective Placement Factor: This position requires possession of a Professional Registration: Professional Engineering (PE), Professional Architect (AIA), or Professional Geologist. (Note: A copy of your current registration must be provided as part of your application packet.)Education:FOREIGN EDUCATION: If you are using education completed in foreign colleges or universities to meet the qualification requirements, you must show the education credentials have been evaluated by a private organization that specializes in interpretation of foreign education programs and such education has been deemed equivalent to that gained in an accredited U.S. education program; or full credit has been given for the courses at a U.S. accredited college or university. For further information, visit: https://sites.ed.gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/Employment Type: OTHER

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