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Applied Physics Lab Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Applied Physics Adjunct

WA · On-site

$1.0K/wk

Teach applied physics course(s) that include the essential concepts of forces, work, rates ... Plan, develop and set up instructional and lab classrooms and online environments. * Identify ...

$19 - $23.75/hr

If so, we're seeking someone to join our Printed Circuit Board fabrication team at the Johns Hopkins University - Applied Physics Lab. APL is seeking a Fabrication Technician to support the ...

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Applied Physics Lab information

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How much do applied physics lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for applied physics lab 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 does an applied physics lab do?

An applied physics lab conducts research and experiments to develop practical solutions using principles of physics. Staff in these labs often work on projects related to technology development, instrumentation, and scientific analysis, utilizing tools like lasers, sensors, and computer modeling. They may also collaborate with engineers and other scientists to translate theoretical physics into real-world applications.

What are the typical collaborative projects an Applied Physics Lab professional might engage in, and how do they work with interdisciplinary teams?

Professionals working in an Applied Physics Lab often collaborate on projects that intersect with engineering, materials science, computer science, and even biomedical fields. They regularly participate in cross-disciplinary teams to design experiments, develop prototypes, or solve complex technical problems. Effective communication and adaptability are essential, as team members may have different technical backgrounds and project goals. These collaborations not only foster innovation but also provide valuable networking and learning opportunities for lab professionals.

What jobs can you get with applied physics?

Applied physics graduates can pursue roles such as research scientist, optical engineer, data analyst, systems analyst, or technical consultant. These jobs often require strong problem-solving skills, proficiency with laboratory equipment or simulation software, and may involve working in industries like aerospace, defense, electronics, or energy.

How prestigious is the applied physics Lab?

The Applied Physics Lab is highly regarded in the scientific and defense communities for its advanced research, innovation, and contributions to national security. It is considered a prestigious employer for physicists and engineers, often requiring security clearances and specialized skills. The lab's reputation is built on its history of cutting-edge projects and collaboration with government agencies.

What is the difference between Applied Physics Lab vs Optical Engineer?

AspectApplied Physics LabOptical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Physics, Engineering, or related fields; security clearance often requiredBachelor's or Master's in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related fields; certifications like OSA may be beneficial
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, government facilities, defense projectsDesign studios, manufacturing facilities, research labs
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, defense contractors, research institutionsTech companies, aerospace, telecommunications, research firms

Applied Physics Labs and Optical Engineers often share credentials and work environments, especially in research and defense sectors. While Applied Physics Labs focus on broad physics research and development, Optical Engineers specialize in designing and testing optical systems. Both roles are vital in high-tech industries, but their specific focus areas differ.

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

To thrive as an Applied Physics Lab Technician, you need a strong background in physics or engineering, laboratory techniques, and data analysis, usually supported by a relevant bachelor's degree or equivalent experience. Familiarity with laboratory instrumentation, measurement devices, and data analysis software like MATLAB or LabVIEW is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication skills help technicians excel in collaborative research environments. These skills and qualities are essential for ensuring accurate experimental results, maintaining safety standards, and supporting scientific innovation.

How much does John Hopkins applied physics Lab pay?

The Applied Physics Lab at Johns Hopkins University offers salaries that vary by position, experience, and education level. Entry-level research scientist salaries typically start around $70,000 to $90,000 annually, with more experienced roles paying higher. Compensation also includes benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.

What is an Applied Physics Lab?

An Applied Physics Lab is a research facility where scientists and engineers use principles of physics to solve real-world problems and develop new technologies. These labs often work on projects involving electronics, materials science, optics, robotics, and more, frequently collaborating with industry and government organizations. Applied Physics Labs can be found at universities, private companies, and government research centers, and their work often leads to advances in fields like defense, healthcare, energy, and communications.
More about Applied Physics Lab jobs
What cities are hiring for Applied Physics Lab jobs? Cities with the most Applied Physics Lab job openings:
What states have the most Applied Physics Lab jobs? States with the most job openings for Applied Physics Lab jobs include:
Infographic showing various Applied Physics Lab job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,731 per year, or $20.1 per hour.
Applied Physics Adjunct

$1.0K/wk

Part-time

Retirement

Re-posted 19 days ago


Olympic College rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

494th of 546 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Salary: $1,000.00 Annually
Location : PSNS, WA
Job Type: Adjunct Faculty
Job Number: 22-23-A1
Department: Business & Technology
Opening Date: 07/12/2022
Description
Applied Physics Adjunct - PSNS
Salary: $1,000 per credit*
Classification: Adjunct Faculty
Department: PSNS Business & Technology
Reports to: Dean of Business & Technology
Olympic College seeks applicants who are dedicated to student-centered learning, closing achievement gaps, leading diversity and social justice learning opportunities, and employing data-informed decision-making in their instruction. As an Achieving the Dream institution, the college is part of a network of more than 220 colleges, each committed to helping students achieve their college and career goals.
Olympic College is recruiting part-time faculty to teach face-to-face applied physics classes at the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard. Specific job functions are listed below.
Essential Functions
  • Teach applied physics course(s) that include the essential concepts of forces, work, rates, resistance, energy and waves, in accordance with college catalog and departmental guidelines.
  • Plan, develop and set up instructional and lab classrooms and online environments.
  • Identify individual learning needs of students and make appropriate adjustments in learning environments and activities.
  • Utilize a variety of assessment activities to evaluate student learning and achievement.
  • This position is considered to by a hybrid position.

Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in physics or a related field

Desired Qualifications
  • Master's Degree in physics or a related field
  • College-level teaching experience

Successful Applicants will
  • Foster a climate of multicultural understanding and appreciation.
  • Demonstrate success working with individuals and groups representing a wide range of diverse cultural, geographic, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
  • Demonstrate effective verbal and written communication skills.
  • Communicate promptly with students, faculty, and staff.
  • Function as a team player.
  • Establish and maintain effective working relationships.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of and commitment to the Olympic College mission, diversity, and a learning-centered climate.
  • Uphold Olympic College's values and ethics necessary to maintain a positive climate.

Additional Information
Terms of Employment
Please note that we are unable to sponsor visas for this position. Only candidates who are currently authorized to work in the United States will be considered.
Faculty members must submit official, unopened transcripts to the Human Resources department within 30 days of their employment.
Final salary contract will be determined based on educational qualifications and applicable credits.
This is an adjunct faculty position contracted on a quarterly basis. Placement on the faculty salary schedule will be commensurate with educational background and experience. The salary listed is a range based on per quarter. A collective bargaining agreement exists, and this position is covered by the Association for Higher Education (AHE). Flexibility is required to meet the needs of the department. Evening and/or weekend classes, instruction at satellite Olympic College campuses, and off-campus assignments including travel to clinical sites may be a part of the instructional load.
Adjunct positions at the college are open continuously and reviewed on a quarter-by-quarter basis. Individuals who apply to the applicant pool are considered active for a period of 12 months from the application date and may be contacted when vacancies occur. Applying does not guarantee that a position will be available or offered.
Adjuncts are not eligible for benefits upon their initial hire. Adjunct faculty must work 50 percent of a full-time load for two consecutive quarters to become eligible. Additional hours earned at other SBCTC colleges may count towards this requirement. The list of benefits that may be available after is as follows.
Deferred Compensation Program (DRS) retirement savings plan; TIAA supplemental retirement savings plan, sick leave, Aflac, space available tuition waiver, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), fitness center, reduced rate and priority consideration on-site childcare on a space available.
For more information regarding benefits, please visit our website .
Conditions of Employment
  • Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history will be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant's suitability and competence to perform in the position. In addition to the background check, candidates will be required to complete the Sexual Misconduct Disclosure Form as required WB HB 2327.

  • The employee must reside in Washington State and within a reasonable distance of the campus to respond to workplace reporting requirements at the time of hiring. Frequent travel to Olympic College campuses or other sites may occur.

How To Apply
To be considered for this positio,n a candidate must apply online through the Olympic College website and submit the following required materials:
  • Olympic College Online Application

  • Resume

  • Cover Letter - in your cover lette,r describe how your experience sets you apart for this position.

  • Unofficial college transcripts. Official transcripts and copies of mandated certifications will be required of the successful candidate.

EEO Statement
Olympic College values equity and is an Equal Opportunity Employer and Educator. Olympic College provides equal opportunity in education and employment and does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, creed, religion, or status as a veteran of war. Prohibited sex discrimination includes sexual harassment include but not limited to unwelcome sexual conduct. Provides reasonable accommodations for qualified students, employees, and applicants with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and Federal Rehabilitation Act. The following persons have been designated to handle inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies: Erin Pohl, Title VII and Title IX, building 5, room 528A, 360-475-7303. Olympic College is a smoke-free/drug-free environment. This recruitment announcement does not reflect the entire job description and can be changed or modified without notice.
Olympic College
Human Resources
1600 Chester Ave Bldg. 5 - 5th Floor
Bremerton, WA 98337
https://www.schooljobs.com/careers/olympic
N/A
01
Do you have a bachelor's degree in Physics or a closely related field?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Do you have the ability to gain security clearance to work in a controlled industrial area, including the ability to pass a federal criminal background check and proof of identity and documentation of U.S. Citizenship with either a U. S. Passport, state issued U.S. birth certificate, or original naturalization papers?
  • Yes
  • No

03
Please indicate your experience level with Microsoft Office Programs.
  • Beginning
  • Intermediate
  • Advanced

04
Do you have experience teaching at the College level?
  • Yes
  • No

05
Do you have a Master's degree in Physics or a related field?
  • Yes
  • No

06
If you have teaching experience, what courses have you taught?
Required Question

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