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Applied Physics Instrumentation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

PhD in Physics, Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related field * Hands-on ... Working knowledge of electronic and RF/microwave instrumentation in a lab setting (e.g., signal ...

PhD in Physics, Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related field * Hands-on ... Working knowledge of electronic and RF/microwave instrumentation in a lab setting (e.g., signal ...

... Physics, Applied Physics, or Mathematics * Exposure to electronics, mechanical design, optics, or instrumentation * Familiarity with spectroscopy, image processing, computer vision and serial ...

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Applied Physics Instrumentation information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Applied Physics Instrumentation specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Applied Physics Instrumentation specialist, you need a solid background in physics, electronics, instrumentation, and data analysis, usually supported by a relevant degree such as physics, engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory measurement tools, control systems, data acquisition software, and certifications in instrumentation or metrology are commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help you collaborate and diagnose complex instrumentation issues. These skills ensure precise measurement, accurate data collection, and reliable performance of scientific equipment in research or industrial environments.

What are some common challenges faced when working with applied physics instrumentation in a research or industry setting?

Professionals in applied physics instrumentation often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting complex equipment malfunctions, ensuring precise calibration, and adapting instruments to rapidly changing experimental requirements. Collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams—including engineers, scientists, and technicians—is essential to address these issues. Additionally, staying current with technological advances and regulatory standards can be demanding but is crucial for maintaining high-quality, reliable measurements and results.

What is the difference between Applied Physics Instrumentation vs Applied Physics?

AspectApplied Physics InstrumentationApplied Physics
Required credentialsBachelor's or Master's in Physics, Engineering, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Physics or related fields
Work environmentLaboratories, research facilities, manufacturing settingsResearch institutions, universities, laboratories
Employer and industry usageTech companies, research labs, instrumentation firmsAcademic institutions, research organizations
Common search intentDesign and develop instrumentation, testing equipmentFundamental physics research, theoretical studies

Applied Physics Instrumentation focuses on designing, developing, and maintaining scientific instruments and measurement devices, often in industrial or research settings. Applied Physics involves applying physics principles to solve practical problems and conduct research, which may include instrumentation but also encompasses broader theoretical work. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds, but their work environments and primary objectives differ.

What is applied physics instrumentation?

Applied physics instrumentation involves the development, design, and use of devices and systems that measure, monitor, or manipulate physical phenomena. Professionals in this field use principles of physics and engineering to create tools such as sensors, detectors, and measurement equipment used in research, medicine, industry, and more. Their work bridges the gap between theoretical physics and practical applications, helping advance scientific discovery and technological innovation.
Infographic showing various Applied Physics Instrumentation job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
Test & Evaluation Engineer / RF Engineer (CUAS)

Test & Evaluation Engineer / RF Engineer (CUAS)

TRISTAR

Bloomington, IN • On-site

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Description:

We are seeking a skilled Test & Evaluation Engineer / RF Engineer (CUAS) to join our dynamic team. The candidate will have a strong foundation in applied physics, radio frequency engineering, wireless communications, signal analysis, and RF test methods. This role will provide RF engineering and applied physics support for CUAS test and evaluation activities.


Key Responsibilities

  • Support planning, development, execution, and analysis of CUAS laboratory, field, over-the-air, and hardware-in-the-loop test events.
  • Analyze RF communications, signal characteristics, propagation effects, antenna performance, interference, and electromagnetic environment conditions.
  • Support evaluation of CUAS systems, EW systems, RF sensors, RF defeat capabilities, communication links, transmitters, receivers, antennas, and supporting test infrastructure. Assist in developing test objectives, test plans, test procedures, data collection plans, test cards, and post-test analysis products.
  • Operate and configure RF test equipment, including spectrum analyzers, signal generators, oscilloscopes, receivers, software-defined radios, antennas, data acquisition systems, and related instrumentation.
  • Collect, process, and analyze RF test data to assess system performance, detection capability, signal effectiveness, link behavior, waveform characteristics, receiver sensitivity, transmit power, timing, and environmental impacts.
  • Support test readiness reviews, technical interchange meetings, Integrated Product Teams, daily test briefs, post-test debriefs, and lessons learned activities.
Requirements:
  • Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, RF Engineering, Applied Physics, Physics, Computer Engineering, Systems Engineering, Communications Engineering, or a related technical field.
  • Three (3) years of professional experience in RF, microwave, or electronic systems engineering.
  • Relevant RF, communications, military, or test experience may be considered in lieu of degree.
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain a security clearance.
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen.

About TRISTAR

TRISTAR is an SBA certified Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned professional services company supporting the U.S. Department of War programs. Our core competencies include Electronic Warfare, Enterprise Management, Full Spectrum Cybersecurity, Information Technology, Digital Transformation, Software Engineering and Development, Maritime Modernization and Engineering, and Technical Solutions.


TRISTAR was founded in March 1995 and has built an employee-focused collaborative environment which enables our team of professionals to create and deliver customized solutions to meet our customers’ mission critical challenges. TRISTAR’s core capabilities support customers with end-to-end solutions.


For over 30 years, TRISTAR has demonstrated and perfected our ability to successfully manage any task, small or large no matter how difficult or complex.


TRISTAR is proud to serve the Department of War and other Federal Agencies.


TRISTAR provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.