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Accelerator Physics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Join a team where fundamental physics meets application-oriented engineering, and your designs ... We have an opening for an Accelerator Physicist who will play a key role in the design and ...

Accelerator Physicist

Cambridge, MA ยท On-site

$110K - $150K/yr

Join a team where fundamental physics meets application-oriented engineering, and your designs ... We have an opening for an Accelerator Physicist who will play a key role in the design and ...

Bachelor's degree in the field of accelerator physics (or equivalent experience). * 5+ years of experience with accelerators in a research or production environment. * Experience interfacing with ...

Assistant Physicist

Lemont, IL ยท On-site

$94.49K - $147.40K/yr

Perform general accelerator physics activities, including independently conducting machine studies to diagnose and resolve operational issues. * Support APS performance improvements by conducting ...

A successful candidate would have strong background in physics and technology of particle accelerators, nuclear physics, plasma physics, or related field, coupled with solid experience in designing ...

A Particle Accelerator Operator will work with engineering and physics teams to install and qualify particle accelerators and other process equipment related to isotope production. The Accelerator ...

Research Scientist, AI

San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$150K - $275K/yr

Develop AI-augmented tools for materials science, device physics, or accelerator physics applications * Build internal AI infrastructure and capabilities to enable research teams across the ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Knoxville, TN

$99.70K - $136.50K/yr

Accelerator physics and electronics knowledge * Experience with design and operation of Radio-frequency (RF) systems * Specialized experience in all of the following areas: control systems ...

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How much do accelerator physics jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for accelerator physics in the United States is $20.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.50 and $25.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an Accelerator Physics job?

An Accelerator Physics job involves the study, design, operation, and improvement of particle accelerators, which are used in scientific research, medicine, and industry. Professionals in this field work on beam dynamics, electromagnetic fields, and advanced technologies to enhance accelerator performance. They may develop new accelerator concepts, troubleshoot operational issues, and collaborate with physicists, engineers, and computational scientists. These roles are found in national laboratories, universities, and private companies specializing in accelerator technology.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Accelerator Physics position, and why are they important?

To excel in Accelerator Physics, a strong background in physics or engineering, typically at the PhD level, and deep knowledge of particle accelerators are required. Familiarity with simulation software, data acquisition systems, and control systems such as EPICS is crucial, and relevant certifications in radiation safety or laboratory practices may also be necessary. Effective problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help facilitate interdisciplinary collaboration and the successful execution of complex experiments. These capabilities enable professionals to troubleshoot sophisticated equipment, contribute to scientific innovation, and ensure safe and efficient facility operations.

What are the typical daily responsibilities for an accelerator physicist?

Accelerator physicists are responsible for designing, testing, and optimizing particle accelerators, often collaborating with engineers and technicians to maintain and modify equipment. Their day-to-day tasks may include conducting experiments, analyzing data, running computational simulations, troubleshooting technical issues, and documenting results for research publications. They also participate in project meetings and may contribute to facility upgrades or new accelerator development. The role often requires balancing hands-on work in laboratories with theoretical calculations and computer modeling, fostering a dynamic and intellectually stimulating work environment.
What cities are hiring for Accelerator Physics jobs? Cities with the most Accelerator Physics job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Accelerator Physics jobs? The most popular types of Accelerator Physics jobs are:
What states have the most Accelerator Physics jobs? States with the most job openings for Accelerator Physics jobs include:
Infographic showing various Accelerator Physics job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Internship, 84% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,731 per year, or $20.1 per hour.
Associate Staff Scientist - SSRL Accelerator Physics

Associate Staff Scientist - SSRL Accelerator Physics

SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory

Menlo Park, CA โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

SLAC Job Postings
Position Overview:
SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory's SPEAR3 is one of the four US Department of Energy synchrotron light sources electron storage rings dedicated to producing brilliant X-ray beams. SPEAR3 serves Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Lightsource (SSRL), a national user facility with a long history of utilizing synchrotron radiation for multi-disciplinary experiments.
We are seeking an Accelerator Physicist to join our Accelerator Physics Group within the SSRL Accelerator Division. This group's responsibilities include:
  • Physics support for the maintenance and operation of the SSRL accelerator complex, which includes an RF electron gun, 120-MeV linear accelerator, a 10-Hz cycling booster synchrotron to accelerate electrons from 120 MeV to 3 GeV, and the main SPEAR3 storage ring that emits x-ray synchrotron radiation from bend magnets, wigglers and undulators.
  • Propose and help design, manage, and execute upgrades of the existing SSRL accelerators to improve their performance and/or reliability.
  • Design a next generation storage ring as a future source to serve the SSRL photon science community.
This is an exciting time for the SSRL accelerator team. The Accelerator Physics Group is exploring options for a next generation light source for SSRL. We are investigating which technologies to push to enhance performance of a future light source beyond sources currently in operation or construction. We are working closely with SSRL photon scientists to establish a strong scientific case for a new SSRL light source.
You r specific responsibilities include:
  • Contribute to the Accelerator Physics Group ongoing effort to maintain and improve the performance of the SPEAR3 storage ring and its injector.
  • Participate in accelerator physics measurements and experiments during our regularly scheduled machine development periods.
  • Contribute to design studies for a future next generation light source for SSRL. This work will include simulations and optimization of linear and nonlinear storage ring dynamics.
  • Other duties may also be assigned.
Note : This position is posted at the Associate Staff Scientist level. The Associate Scientist position is a 3-to-5-year fixed-term position and the entry level in the Staff Scientist career path. The Associate Scientist position is scheduled to be assessed after the 3 to 5-year period, with the possibility of appointment to the Staff Scientist level.
Applicants must hold a PhD degree or provide formal confirmation of completion of the PhD degree requirements prior to starting the position. Application materials must include a cover letter, a research statement (including a brief-summary of accomplishments), a curriculum vitae, and contact information for three references for future letters of recommendation.
SLAC is a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) laboratory operated by Stanford University and based in Menlo Park, CA. Given the nature of this position, SLAC will require on-site work.
To be successful in this position, you will bring:
  • A PhD in accelerator physics or related field or equivalent experience with minimum 2 years of relevant experience in accelerator and storage ring physics.
  • Comprehensive knowledge of storage ring physics including linear and nonlinear beam optics and lattice design.
  • Hands-on accelerator expertise, including the ability to quickly diagnose problems that develop with the accelerators during operations.
  • Aptitude with computer modeling codes as well as strong programming skills.
  • Good verbal and written communication skills and the ability to clearly document scientific research and projects.
SLAC employee competencies:
  • Effective Decisions: Uses job knowledge and solid judgment to make quality decisions in a timely manner.
  • Self-Development: Pursues a variety of venues and opportunities to continue learning and developing.
  • Dependability: Can be counted on to deliver results with a sense of personal responsibility for expected outcomes.
  • Initiative: Pursues work and interactions proactively with optimism, positive energy, and motivation to move things forward.
  • Adaptability: Flexes as needed when change occurs, maintains an open outlook while adjusting and accommodating changes.
  • Communication: Ensures effective information flow to various audiences and creates and delivers clear, appropriate written, spoken, presented messages.
  • Relationships: Builds relationships to foster trust, collaboration, and a positive climate to achieve common goals.
Physical requirements and Working conditions :
  • Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of his or her job.
Work standards:
  • Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrates the ability to work well with Stanford colleagues and clients and with external organizations.
  • Promote Culture of Safety: Demonstrates commitment to personal responsibility and value for environment, safety and security; communicates related concerns; uses and promotes safe behaviors based on training and lessons learned. Meets the applicable roles and responsibilities as described in the ESH Manual, Chapter 1 General Policy and Responsibilities: http://www-group.slac.stanford.edu/esh/eshmanual/pdfs/ESHch01.pdf
  • Subject to and expected to comply with all applicable University policies and procedures, including but not limited to the personnel policies and other policies found in the University's Administrative Guide, http://adminguide.stanford.edu
  • As a national laboratory, SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory is responsible for adhering to the Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD-12) and Department of Energy (DOE) Order 473.1A, which require employees to obtain and maintain a HSPD-12 Personal Identity Verification (PIV) Credential. To obtain this credential, employees must successfully complete the applicable tier of federal background investigation post hire and receive a favorable federal adjudication. The tier of federal background investigation will be determined by job duties and national security or public trust responsibilities associated with the job. All tiers of investigation include a declaration of illegal drug activities, including use, supply, possession, or manufacture within the last 1 to 7 years (depending on the applicable tier of investigation). Illegal drug activities include marijuana and cannabis derivatives, which are still considered illegal under federal law, regardless of state laws.
  • Classification Title: Associate Staff Scientist
  • Grade: K, Job code: 1092
  • Duration: 3-year fixed term
The expected pay range for this position is $145,411 - $173,254 per annum
SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory/Stanford University provides pay ranges representing its good faith estimate of the salary or hourly wage the university reasonably expects to pay for a position upon hire. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, departmental budget availability, internal equity, geographic location, and external market pay for comparable jobs. At SLAC/Stanford, base pay represents only one aspect of the comprehensive rewards package.