What it does: Most operations at NASA are focused on better understanding the Earth, exploring bodies throughout the Solar System, advancing heliophysics, and researching astrophysics topics. N simple words, NASA makes satellites, helps scientists learn about Earth, sends probes into space, and studies things.
Mission: To explore the unknown in air and space, innovate for the benefit of humanity, and inspire the world through discovery. The agency works with a vision of exploring the secrets of the universe so that the entire world gets benefits.
Size and presence: NASA has 20 centres and facilities across the country where it conducts research, testing, and development to advance astronauts. The government agency creates around 312,000 jobs across the United States and generates over $64.3 billion in total economic output (Fiscal Year 2019).
Best known for: NASA scientists study things in the solar system and even beyond as it is responsible for science and technology related to air and space. The agency is the global leader in space exploration and has a diverse workforce.
The good bits: NASA has a diverse workforce including around 18,000 civil servants and also works with many U.S. contractors, academia, and international and commercial partners. The agency explores and discovers Earth and Space for the benefit of humanity.
The not-so-good bits: The selection process at NASA may take months as most roles come with great responsibility and demand expertise. There are many rounds as well as medical evaluations which means not all finalists will continue to each phase of screening.
NASA stands for National Aeronautics and Space Administration and it is responsible for science and technology related to the solar system. The agency was established in 1958 to give the US space development a specialized place to research the Solar System. NASA succeeded the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA) which began in 1946. NACA began experimenting with rocket planes. Since its commencement, most major American space exploration programs have been led by NASA.
Some of the major efforts include the Apollo Moon landing missions, the Space Shuttle, and the Skylab space station. The agency is also supporting the International Space Station and managing the development of the Orion spacecraft, Commercial Crew vehicles, the Space Launch System, and the planned Lunar Gateway space station.
NASA leads a Moon to Mars exploration approach and also includes working with U.S. industry and many international partners. Scientists from across the world help to research and develop new technology to explore the Moon on Artemis missions. Companies or organizations across the globe use NASA discoveries and technologies to create innovative products.
Since its establishment, NASA has attracted the most skilled, qualified, and experienced explorers who have a passion for science and space. With the ever-changing needs of the jobs and responsibilities, NASA has taken many steps to ensure the Agency remains well-positioned to hire the best talent.
The agency has introduced flexible work schedules, world-class leadership development programs, and retaining stature in technical fields. Though the work at NASA is technical and requires expertise in the related field, it strives to provide a work-life balance to its employees.
The agency is launching new platforms to match people with opportunities and provide a work environment apt for working on complex projects. Also, it is embracing technology and digital transformation to cater to ever-evolving talent strategies.
The values of the NASA culture include integrity, safety, teamwork, and excellence. The agency believes in providing a good working environment to all its employees at different job levels and positions.
People who want to apply for different positions at NASA can visit the agency’s website to know the open vacancies, requirements, and eligibility criteria.
Here’s what is required for Astronaut Candidate applicants…
Those clearing the rounds and becoming finalists will have to undergo medical tests, psychological tests, and psychiatric screening. These medical evaluations are done to know suitability for physically and mentally demanding space missions. Candidates with any kind of allergies such as food allergies, gastrointestinal disorders, avoidances, etc won’t be selected.
The expenses related to all exams will be arranged and paid for through NASA. The selection process may take months depending on the type of role candidates have applied for. This includes time filling out the application and all other selection procedures.
NASA is the global leader in space exploration and creates many career opportunities for people across the world. It attracts the workforce from different nations and it is more than Astronauts. The agency needs scientists, engineers, accountants, writers, technicians, human resource specialists, IT specialists, technicians, and all related roles.
Candidates can check the official website of NASA to learn more about career opportunities, open roles, eligibility criteria, and the application process.
The average estimated annual salary (including base bonus) at NASA is $124,363 or $59 per hour. However, the average estimated annual median salary is $117,103, or $56 per hour. The highest-paid job at NASA is the Group Product Manager who gets around $223,604 per year while the lowest-paid job is a Sr Desktop Support who gets around $41,000 per year.
NASA has made many contributions to world-changing industries including GPS, remote sensing, satellite telecommunications, and space access. The agency inspires people around the world, invests in technology, boosts innovation, advances space-related industries, and promotes collaboration.
Moreover, NASA conducts many types of research and introduces several programs to protect the environment. It is constantly researching climate change to bring some practical solutions that will benefit the entire world. The agency also works with many communities including private, public, and nonprofit organizations.
The recent controversy that NASA has experienced is about James Webb Space Telescope. The news that NASA won’t rename its new space telescope raised many controversies. The agency has no plans to rename its new $10 billion telescope, the James Webb Space Telescope.