Want to help save the world? We're not talking about reducing your carbon footprint to stop climate change here. We're talking about protecting the planet from aliens. That's right, NASA is looking for someone to fill the organization's Planetary Protection Officer position. NASA explains that the position is primarily "concerned with the avoidance of organic-constituent and biological contamination in human and robotic space exploration." To simplify that, they're looking for someone to make sure no alien life from another planet somehow gets back to Earth, MSN explains. Yup, this is a seriously legit job application.
Refinery29 notes that the person who fills this position will also involve advising NASA officials, recommending new standards for NASA explorations and ensuring that space missions align with planetary protection policies.
The job is a rare find, with the only other planetary protection officer in the world working for the European Space Agency. So who can take on such an intense position? NASA is looking for someone who has a degree in physical science, engineering, or mathematics, as well as 24 semester hours in physical science or related engineering science. The dream applicant should also have experience in a previous engineering position and in overseeing space programs. Additionally, you have to prove you have knowledge of planetary protection.
For anyone who does have all of these amazing qualifications, NASA is offering $124,406 to $187,000 a year. That's a pretty great salary for protecting our planet from aliens! Kudos to anyone who happens to be amazing enough to fit NASA's wants.