Space Exploration : Careers

Space Exploration - Careers

Do you know what you want to do when you grow up? How about being part of the space program?
 

You could be an astronaut and fly in space. Or you could work in the space program as a mathematician, scientist, engineer, or technician.

On each space mission, many people work together as a team.
 
 
 

Mathematicians study numbers and plan space missions. Scientists study the universe and invent experiments to explore space. Engineers design the rockets and satellites. Technicians build the rockets and other equipment.

What would you like to be? Here is a quick look at some of the careers to be found in the space program. For more detailed information, please follow the links at the bottom of the page. Happy hunting, and remember:

"Don't be afraid of the space between your dreams and reality. If you can dream it, you can make it so!"
- Belva Davis, first African-American female TV reporter on the U.S. West Coast


Space Careers

Astronauts

  • Commander

  • Pilot

  • Mission Specialist

  • Payload Specialist

  • Flight Engineer

Mission Control

  • Flight Director
  • Spacecraft Communicator (CAPCOM)
  • Communication and Tracking Officer
  • Environmental Control and Life Support Systems Officer
  • Extravehicular Activities Systems Engineer
  • Robotics Operations Systems Officer
  • Ground Controller

Scientists

  • Astronomer
  • Chemist
  • Geologist
  • Meteorologist
  • Physicist
  • Oceanographer
  • Biologist
  • Medical Doctor
  • Physiologist
  • Nutritionist
  • Psychologist

Engineers

  • Aerospace/Astronautics
  • Chemical
  • Civil
  • Biomedical
  • Computer
  • Electrical
  • Industrial
  • Environmental
  • Materials
  • Mechanical
  • Nuclear
  • Petroleum
  • Plastics
  • Safety
  • Systems

Mathematicians

  • Computer Scientist
  • Mathematician
  • Systems Analyst
  • Statistician

Technicians

  • Electronics Technician
  • Engineering Technician
  • Meteorological Technician
  • Research Technician
  • Safety Technician
  • Quality Technician
  • Aircraft Technician
  • Equipment Technician

Administrative and Management

  • Administrative Specialist
  • Budget Analyst
  • Contract Specialist
  • Information Technology Specialist
  • Public Affairs Specialist

Clerical and Administrative Support

  • Accounting Technician
  • Clerk-Typist
  • Management Assistant
  • Office Automation Clerk
  • Procurement Clerk
  • Secretary

Trades and Labour

  • High Voltage Electrician
  • Instrument Maker
  • Model Making
  • Utility Systems Repair

Learn more about space careers at the following web sites:

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