Country
Sector
Search a job

Astronaut

Conduct scientific experiments and operate advanced spacecraft to advance humanity's exploration of the universe in demanding extraterrestrial environments.

60 000 – 180 000 USD (£)
Average salary / year
Master's degree or higher
Education level
00
Automation level
Low
Difficulty
Stable
Employability
Several years
Market tension
Low
Intl. mobility
Rare
Automation level
Low
Difficulty
Stable
Employability
Several years
Market tension
Low
Intl. mobility
Rare
Sponsor this career pagePARTNER SPACESponsorthis career pageBecome a sponsor

About

As an astronaut, you will be at the forefront of space exploration, contributing to mankind's understanding of the universe. Working within an elite government or space agency, your primary objective is to conduct scientific experiments and test new technologies in a demanding extraterrestrial environment. You will collaborate with international teams and operate advanced spacecraft, often using specialized tools for data collection and system management. This role is crucial for maintaining successful missions and ensuring the safety and advancement of exploratory objectives beyond Earth's atmosphere.

Skills

Technical skills

  • Expertise in spacecraft operation for mission success.
  • Perform extravehicular activity with precision.
  • Operate and interpret science instrumentation effectively.
  • Manage satellite communication for data transmission.
  • Apply space systems engineering to enhance performance.
  • Maintain robust telecommunications in space.

Interpersonal skills

  • Exhibit strong teamwork under stress.
  • Engage in critical decision-making during missions.
  • Solve complex problems with innovative solutions.
  • Adaptability to confined spaces for long durations.
  • Excel in cross-cultural communication with international teams.

Tasks

  • Conduct scientific research and experiments using specialized equipment.
  • Operate complex spacecraft systems under high-pressure conditions.
  • Coordinate with international teams to achieve mission objectives.
  • Monitor spacecraft for potential technical issues using diagnostic tools.
  • Report findings and mission progress to mission control centers.
  • Adhere to stringent safety protocols and space travel regulations.
  • Utilize remote sensing tools to gather extraterrestrial data.
  • Manage resources within the spacecraft against predefined quotas.
  • Troubleshoot and repair spacecraft components as necessary.
  • Participate in physical and psychological training to maintain readiness.

Work environments

Work environments for professionals in this sector may vary:

International Space Station, a hub for global collaboration in space.
Spacecraft cockpit, where operation of controls is critical.
Training simulators designed for realistic mission preparation.
Zero-gravity environments to simulate weightlessness.
Mission control center, the nerve center for space operations.
Lunar or Martian habitats for future extraterrestrial living.

Career paths

  • Progress to Lead Astronaut to guide missions.
  • Advance to Mission Commander overseeing entire operations.
  • Become a Spacecraft Pilot managing navigation.
  • Transition to Flight Director for mission planning.
  • Elevate to Space Agency Administrator for strategic roles.

Profile sought

Resilience to endure challenging conditions.
Analytical thinking for effective problem solving.
Crisis management with a focus on calm execution.
Attention to detail to ensure precision in tasks.
How to become a Astronaut?

Jobs in the same sector

Airline Pilot
00
Airline Pilot
aeronautique et transport aerien

Operate flights using advanced navigation systems while ensuring passenger safety and adherence to aviation regulations.

40k–200k
Aeronautical Maintenance Technician
00
Aeronautical Maintenance Technician
aeronautique et transport aerien

Perform detailed inspections and maintenance on aircraft systems to ensure safety, reliability, and compliance with aviation regulations.

25k–60k
Operations Agent in Air Transport
00
Operations Agent in Air Transport
aeronautique et transport aerien

Coordinate schedules and resources to ensure on-time departures and arrivals in air freight and passenger operations.

18k–40k
Ground handling agent
00
Ground handling agent
aeronautique et transport aerien

Manage aircraft ground operations by efficiently coordinating with flight crews and maintenance teams while ensuring adherence to safety regulations.

18k–35k
Flight Dispatcher
00
Flight Dispatcher
aeronautique et transport aerien

Plan and monitor flight operations using scheduling software to ensure safety, compliance, and efficiency across all airline activities.

30k–90k
Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologist
00
Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologist
aeronautique et transport aerien

Become a pivotal part of aerospace missions by mastering advanced technology and precise operations.

28k–65k
Aeronautical Engineer
00
Aeronautical Engineer
aeronautique et transport aerien

Utilize CAD software to innovate aircraft designs and enhance aerodynamic efficiency while ensuring compliance with safety regulations.

28k–90k
Helicopter Pilot
00
Helicopter Pilot
aeronautique et transport aerien

Pilot advanced helicopters to ensure safe and efficient airborne transport for executive stakeholders while adhering to aviation regulations.

35k–120k