How to Get a Job at NASA: Step-by-Step Guide to Landing Your Dream Role

For many, NASA isn’t just an employer—it’s a symbol of human potential, innovation, and the limitless possibilities of science. Whether you’ve dreamed of becoming an astronaut, designing spacecraft, working in mission control, or even helping tell the story of space exploration through media, a job at NASA is one of the most prestigious and rewarding careers out there.

But how do you actually get a job at NASA? Is it just for top scientists or astronauts? Absolutely not. NASA hires people from a wide variety of disciplines, and if you have the passion, skills, and perseverance, you could be one of them.

Let’s break it all down into a step-by-step guide to help you land your dream role at NASA.

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Step 1: Understand What NASA Looks for

NASA isn’t just looking for rocket scientists. Yes, they hire engineers, physicists, and astronomers—but they also need experts in computer science, mathematics, communications, biology, chemistry, business administration, law, graphic design, education, and many more fields.

Key qualities NASA looks for:

• Strong academic background
• Technical skills and expertise
• Passion for space, science, or innovation
• Adaptability and teamwork
• Problem-solving abilities
• U.S. citizenship (for most roles)

Note: Most NASA roles require U.S. citizenship. However, there are programs and partnerships for international collaboration (more on that later).

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Step 2: Choose Your Career Path

Before you even apply, you need clarity on what kind of role fits your skills and interest. NASA divides its careers into several categories:

Technical Fields

• Aerospace Engineering
• Mechanical/Electrical Engineering
• Computer Science & Cybersecurity
• Robotics
• Astrophysics & Planetary Science

Science Fields

• Astronomy
• Geology
• Biology
• Chemistry
• Climate Science

Support Roles

• Business and Finance
• Human Resources
• Education & Outreach
• Legal & Policy
• Public Affairs & Communication

Whether you want to work in the lab, write mission briefs, or manage people and projects—NASA probably has a spot that fits your profile.

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Step 3: Get the Right Education

NASA values education immensely. A solid academic background is non-negotiable for most jobs. Here’s how you can prepare:

For Engineering or Science Roles:

• Pursue a Bachelor’s degree in relevant fields like aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, computer science, or physics.
• Most top roles prefer a Master’s or Ph.D., especially in research-heavy or specialized areas.

For Business, Law, or Media Roles:

• Degrees in business administration, finance, journalism, law, or communication can open doors to NASA’s administrative or outreach departments.

Pro tip: Always aim to study at accredited institutions and try to gain some experience through internships, research work, or projects related to your field.

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Step 4: Gain Relevant Experience

Getting experience while you’re still studying can give you a competitive edge. NASA values internships, research, and hands-on project work. Here’s how to go about it:

Internships at NASA

NASA offers several internships through programs like:

• NASA Pathways Internships
• NASA OSTEM Internships
• NASA DEVELOP Program (Earth science focus)

These internships are open to high school, undergraduate, and graduate students, and they cover a wide range of fields.

Eligibility:

• U.S. citizenship (for most roles)
• Minimum GPA of 3.0
• Enrollment in an accredited institution

You can find these internships on intern.nasa.gov.

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Step 5: Network and Build Connections

Yes, networking even works in the space industry.

• Attend space-related events and conferences like the International Space Development Conference or NASA-hosted webinars.
• Join online communities like NASA forums, Reddit space threads, or LinkedIn groups.
• Follow NASA personnel on LinkedIn and engage with their content—building relationships can lead to mentorship or referral opportunities.

If you’re a student, consider joining:

• AIAA (American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics)
• IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers)
• Space Generation Advisory Council

These communities provide excellent opportunities to meet people in the field.

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Step 6: Apply on USAJOBS

NASA posts all job openings on the USAJOBS portal, the official government job site.

How to apply:

1. Visit usajobs.gov
2. Create a profile.
3. Upload your resume (tailored to NASA’s needs).
4. Search for jobs using the keyword “NASA.”
5. Filter by location, grade level (GS levels), and job category.
6. Submit your application and supporting documents.

GS Levels (General Schedule pay grades) determine your eligibility:

• GS-5 to GS-7: Entry-level positions (Bachelor’s degree).
• GS-9 to GS-11: Mid-level (Master’s degree or experience).
• GS-12 and above: Senior roles or Ph.D./extensive experience.

Pro tip: Your resume for USAJOBS should be long and detailed—not like a one-page corporate resume. Include achievements, responsibilities, skills, and quantifiable outcomes.

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Step 7: Ace the Interview

Once you’re shortlisted, it’s time to shine in the interview.

Commonly Asked Questions:

• Tell us about a time you solved a technical challenge.
• How do you work under pressure?
• What excites you about space and NASA’s mission?
• Describe a successful project you worked on.

NASA interviews are typically behavioral and technical, depending on the role.

Tips:

• Research the specific center or mission you’re applying to.
• Be authentic—NASA values passion.
• Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) when answering questions.

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Step 8: Consider Alternatives & Special Programs

If you don’t land a job at NASA right away, don’t worry. There are other ways in:

1. Contractor Positions

Many NASA employees actually work for private contractors like:

• Boeing
• Lockheed Martin
• SAIC
• Jacobs
• Northrop Grumman

These contractors often work directly with NASA and offer stepping stones into the agency.

2. Research Institutions

Work in a university or research lab that collaborates with NASA. This could lead to a partnership or joint project.

3. Start with Other Government Agencies

Roles in NOAA, DoD, or the FAA could give you the relevant experience to transition into NASA.

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Step 9: International Candidates – Is It Possible?

While U.S. citizenship is required for most positions, NASA collaborates with international organizations, and some opportunities exist through:

• Partnerships with ISRO, ESA, JAXA, and CSA
• Postdoctoral Fellowships through NASA-affiliated institutes
• Internships via I2 (International Interns) Program (for students from select partner countries)

If you’re outside the U.S., look for academic or research collaborations, and try to pursue higher studies in the U.S. to improve your chances.

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Step 10: Stay Updated and Keep Trying

NASA is a highly competitive place to work. It might take more than one try. But if you’re persistent, qualified, and passionate, it’s possible.

Stay updated by:

• Following nasa.gov/careers
• Subscribing to the NASA Jobs newsletter
• Checking USAJOBS weekly
• Joining NASA’s social channels for news and recruitment drives

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Real-Life Inspiration: People Who Made It

Swati Mohan

Guided the Perseverance rover to Mars. She studied engineering, interned at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Lab, and worked her way up through dedication.

Dr. Kalpana Chawla

First Indian woman in space. She studied aerospace engineering and became a mission specialist through hard work and perseverance.

These people show that it’s not just about being brilliant—it’s about being committed, curious, and courageous.

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Final Thoughts

Getting a job at NASA isn’t easy—but nothing worth dreaming of ever is. Whether you want to explore Mars, program the next satellite, teach kids about space, or balance the budget for the next mission—there’s a place for you.

The key? Start early. Build skills. Stay persistent. And believe that your curiosity can truly take you beyond the stars.

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“Shoot for the moon. Even if you miss, you’ll land among the stars.”

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