When most people think of space travel, they picture astronauts in bulky suits, floating through the International Space Station or bravely exploring new frontiers. But the reality is, for every person who leaves Earth’s atmosphere, thousands more are working behind the scenes—and that number is only growing. In fact, while the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics doesn’t track data specifically for “space scientists,” it does project steady growth in related fields. Between 2023 and 2033, employment of physicists and astronomers is expected to grow by 7%, and atmospheric scientists by 6%—much of it driven by retirements and a growing need for talent in research and development. As the space economy expands, so does the demand for highly skilled workers across a wide range of industries. That’s because human spaceflight is no longer just the domain of government programs. With commercial ventures like SpaceX, Blue Origin, and Virgin Galactic leading the way, space is becoming a business—and one that’s hiring. We're no longer just talking about rocket scientists. We’re looking at a new generation of careers that could be just as common as app developers or airline pilots. Let’s break down what this future looks like—and how much you could earn if you decide to shoot for the stars (or at least work near them). Here’s a look at some of the most interesting—and realistic—jobs tied to human spaceflight, with estimated salary ranges based on current market data and future trends: What they do: Explore everything from propulsion systems and materials science to human biology in microgravity. They work in labs or alongside space agencies and private companies, developing technologies that make spaceflight safer, more efficient, and sustainable. One exciting focus right now? Studying how plants grow in space—a critical step toward building self-sustaining colonies on the Moon or Mars, where astronauts will need to grow their own food. Estimated Pay: $0,0900 – $110,000/year What they do: Design, test, and maintain the systems that keep spacecraft operational and astronauts alive. Estimated Pay: $90,000 – $160,000/year What they do: Build and maintain software that powers spacecraft, satellites, and mission systems. They often work with engineers and scientists to ensure everything from navigation to data transmission runs flawlessly. Estimated Pay: $90,000 – $130,000/year What they do: Manage budgets for everything from rocket parts to R&D spending. They help track funding, ensure compliance with government contracts, and keep multi-million (or billion!) dollar projects financially on course. Estimated Pay: $55,000 – $80,000/year What they do: Use satellite data and mapping technology to analyze Earth's surface, track environmental changes, or even assist with planetary exploration. Their work supports everything from climate research to disaster response—often using data captured from space. Estimated Pay: $65,000 – $80,000/year What they do: Study celestial bodies, space phenomena, and the universe as a whole. They use telescopes, satellites, and other instruments to gather data and develop theories about the origins of the cosmos, black holes, exoplanets, and more. Their findings help inform space missions, guide research in astrophysics, and even assist in navigating spacecraft through deep space. Estimated Pay: $125,000 – $140,000/year What they do: Operate and maintain robotic arms, drones, and rovers used in space missions and stations. Estimated Pay: $100,000 – $110,000/year What they do: Handle legal issues related to spaceflight, including liability, property rights, and international treaties. Estimated Pay: $100,000 – $120,000/year If you're early in your career (or thinking of a change), you don’t necessarily need a degree in astrophysics to get into the space game. Fields like data science, mechanical engineering, mental health, and hospitality are all seeing demand because of the growing space economy. You can start building a “space-adjacent” career now—one that might just land you a job supporting the next generation of astronauts, space tourists, or even lunar miners. On this International Day of Human Space Flight, it's clear that space isn’t just a dream anymore—it’s an industry. One that’s open to more people, more professions, and more possibilities than ever before. So whether you’re an engineer, a counselor, or just someone who’s always looked up at the stars—you might find your future career is out of this world.8 Emerging Space-Related Careers (and What They Might Pay)
1. Research Scientist
2. Spaceflight Systems Engineer
3. Software Developer
4. Accountant
5. GIS Analyst
6. Astronomer
7. Robotics Engineer
8. Space Lawyer
What This Means for You
Final Thoughts: The Future is Looking Up
True Tamplin is a published author, public speaker, CEO of UpDigital, and founder of Finance Strategists.
True is a Certified Educator in Personal Finance (CEPF®), author of The Handy Financial Ratios Guide, a member of the Society for Advancing Business Editing and Writing, contributes to his financial education site, Finance Strategists, and has spoken to various financial communities such as the CFA Institute, as well as university students like his Alma mater, Biola University, where he received a bachelor of science in business and data analytics.
To learn more about True, visit his personal website or view his author profiles on Amazon, Nasdaq and Forbes.
