Job Details

New ideas are all around us, but only a few will change the world. That’s our focus at JPL. We ask the biggest questions, then search the universe for answers—literally. We build upon ideas that have guided generations, then share our discoveries to inspire generations to come. Your mission—your opportunity—is to seek out the answers that bring us one step closer. If you’re driven to discover, create, and inspire something that lasts a lifetime and beyond, you’re ready for JPL.

Located in Pasadena, California, JPL has a campus-like environment situated on 177 acres in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains and offers a work environment unlike any other: we inspire passion, foster innovation, build collaboration, and reward excellence.

The Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, California, invites applications for a newly created research position in the Small Bodies Group. The successful candidate will have demonstrated expertise in planetary science, specifically in low-temperature chemistry under conditions applicable to asteroids, comets, and ocean worlds. The candidate will also be expected to experimentally determine optical constants at infrared wavelengths and study the phase behavior of the relevant materials. 

Applicants should have a well-established record in planetary science and physical chemistry, evidenced by publications in refereed scientific journals and participation in national/international meetings. It is expected that the successful candidate will develop an independently funded research program. Opportunities exist for participation in ongoing and future space missions. 

This position requires the following qualifications: 

·        PhD in planetary science, physical chemistry, or a related field with typically 2+ years related experience.

·        Demonstrated professional reputation as a productive researcher with a track record of publications in peer-reviewed journals, and presentations at national and/or international conferences. 

·        Experience with cryogenic pressure and vacuum systems. 

·        Experience with irradiation sources such as electron guns. 

·        Expertise in analytical techniques: infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, gas chromatography, temperature-programmed desorption. 

The following qualifications are preferred: 

·        Familiarity with analysis of hydrocarbons under Titan surface conditions. 

·        Familiarity with analysis of ROSINA/Rosetta mass spectrometry data. 

·        Experience in obtaining grant funding. 

JPL has a catalog of benefits and perks that span from the traditional to the unique. This includes a variety of health, dental, vision, wellbeing, and retirement plans, paid time off, learning, rideshare, childcare, flexible schedule, parental leave and many more. Our focus is on work-life balance, and living healthy, fulfilling lives as we Dare Mighty Things Together. For benefits eligible positions, benefits are effective the first day of the month coincident with or immediately following the employee’s start date.

For further benefits information click Benefits and Perks

The hiring range displayed below is specifically for those who will work in or reside in the location listed. In extending an offer, Jet Propulsion Laboratory considers factors including, but not limited to, the candidate’s job related skills, experience, knowledge, and relevant education/training. Hiring range for this job may be adjusted based on primary work location outside of Pasadena, California. This adjusted range will be provided to candidates by the Recruiter when applicable.

The typical full time equivalent annual hiring range for this job in Pasadena, California.

$126,048 - $164,216

JPL is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, age, marital status, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy or perceived pregnancy, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, protected military or veteran status or any other characteristic or condition protected by Federal, state or local law.

In addition, JPL is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.

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The Jet Propulsion Laboratory is a federal facility. Due to rules imposed by NASA, JPL will not accept applications from citizens of designated countries or those born in a designated country unless they are Legal Permanent Residents of the U.S or have other protected status under 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3). The Designated Countries List is available here.