If you've ever watched Independence Day and had a tear running down your cheek as Will Smith saves the world, thinking 'I wish I could do that', then your time to shine is now.
While there are so many things going on on the surface of our planet that are concerning enough, NASA is looking ahead and wants to be prepared. That's why they've recently opened up a vacancy to be a 'Planetary Protection Officer'.
According to their website, they're looking for someone who will be 'concerned with the avoidance of organic-constituent and biological contamination in human and robotic space exploration'. So, it sounds less like Independence Day and more like Alien.
The job is for three years with the potential for another two; but the big kicker is the salary: "$124,406 (£94,202) to $187,000 (£141,599) per year. It requires frequent travel across America as well as drug testing and a financial disclosure agreement.
It appears the offer has got some people excited:
But the tricky part is having the skills and qualifications that NASA is looking for:
- Advanced knowledge of Planetary Protection, its requirements and mission categories. This includes demonstrated technical expertise to independently form technically sound judgments and evaluations in considerably complex situations.
- Demonstrated experience planning, executing, or overseeing elements of space programs of national significance. These elements include but are not limited to developing requirements, performing technical assessments, and preparing recommendations to leadership.
- Demonstrated skills in diplomacy that resulted in win-win solutions during extremely difficult and complex multilateral discussions. This includes building coalitions amongst organizations to achieve common goals.
You also have to have a degree in physical science, engineering, or mathematics, or a combination of education and experience.
What are you waiting for?
Featured Image Credit: 20th Century FoxTopics: Nasa, Alien, Will Smith