---
title: You Can Now Apply For a 6-Figure NASA Job Defending Earth From Alien Contamination
description: Is it your dream to defend earth from extraterrestrial life? If so, NASA has the perfect job for you — and it pays well
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published: '2017-08-02T12:36:23.000Z'
modified: '2024-04-17T06:25:18.000Z'
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> **Disclosure:** We research all brands listed and may earn a fee from our partners. Research and financial considerations may influence how brands are displayed. Not all brands are included. [Learn more](https://money.com/page/disclaimer/).

![Local Landmarks](https://img.money.com/2017/03/gettyimages-517862941.jpg)
*NASA logo at the Kennedy Space Center. Florida*

Is it your dream to defend earth from extraterrestrial life? If so, [NASA](http://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/12757/check-out-all-these-blackbird-videos-nasa-just-released) has the perfect job for you — and it pays well.

The [space agency](https://money.com/land-sale-for-mars-acres-penny/) has a job opening for a "planetary protection officer," [Business Insider reports](http://www.businessinsider.com/nasa-planetary-protection-officer-job-opening-2017-7?utm_content=buffer9c4ef&utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook.com&utm_campaign=buffer-bi). The job, which pays between $124,406 to $187,000 a year plus benefits, will involve preventing alien contamination during NASA space missions. They're also supposed to prevent any alien microorganisms from reaching earth.

While the job sounds like something out of this world, similar positions already exist. Many space agencies employ planetary protection officers on a part-time basis or in a shared role.

But this is one of few full-time gigs. [NASA](https://money.com/space-finders-keepers-law/) and the European Space Agency are the only two agencies where two full-time roles with a similar job description, according to Business Insider.

As for the job intensity, "It's a moderate level," Catharine Conley, currently NASA's sole planetary protection officer, told Business Insider. "It's not extremely careful, but it's not extremely lax."

That being said, the job isn't just for anyone. Applicants must have an advanced degree in science or math, and experience "planning, executing, or overseeing elements of space programs of national significance," according to the job description.

NASA will be [accepting applications](https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/474414000/) for a new planetary protection officer through Aug. 14.

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