As the limits of human and robotic space exploration stretch further than ever before, a small group of officials tasked with 'planetary protection' are hard at work ensuring contaminants from Earth don't hitch a ride to other planets, or vice versa.
Between NASA and ESA, there are just two full-time Planetary Protection Officers in the world - and now, NASA is hiring for the position.
The space agency is offering up to $187,000 salary for whoever is selected to fill the sole vacancy, and will be accepting applications until August 14.
Currently, the title belongs to Catharine Conley, who has been NASA's Planetary Protection Officer since 2014, Daily Mail reports.
According to the job opening, which is offering $124,406 to $187,000 salary, the position is initially appointed for 3 years and has potential to extend another 2.