ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Applied Physics Lab Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Apple

Optical Science Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$159.20K - $206K/yr

... in Optics, Physics, Applied Physics, EE, or a related fieldHands-on experience designing ... lab instruments Excellent communication and presentation skills and ability to work well in a ...

Swarthmore College

Postdoctoral Researcher

Swarthmore, PA · On-site

$55K - $65K/yr

Perform lab chores and instrument maintenance (10%) What you bring: Required Qualifications * PhD in materials science, physics, applied physics, mechanical engineering * Demonstrated background in ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

All JobsApplied Physics Lab Jobs

Applied Physics Lab information

See salary details

$5

$20

$25

How much do applied physics lab jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 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 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.

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 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.

How much does Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab pay?

Salaries for positions at Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab vary depending on the role, experience, and education level. Entry-level technical roles typically start around $70,000 to $90,000 annually, with more experienced or specialized positions earning higher salaries. The lab offers competitive pay and benefits for scientists, engineers, and research staff working on advanced projects.

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.

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:
What job categories do people searching Applied Physics Lab jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Applied Physics Lab jobs are:
Applied Physics Lab jobs near you
Infographic showing various Applied Physics Lab job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,731 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

Senior Measurements Engineer - Lab Experiments

Pacific Fusion

Los Lunas, NM

$101.20K - $139K/yr

Other

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Why This Role Matters

We are seeking a highly motivated Senior Measurement Engineer - Lab Experiments to design, build, operate, and advance our pulsed power systems - the core of our experimental fusion platform. This role is deeply hands-on and multidisciplinary, requiring expertise across high-voltage systems, controls, diagnostics, and data analysis. The ideal candidate combines strong technical depth with the ability to lead R&D workflows, collaborate across disciplines, and take ownership of system performance and development.

What You'll Do
  • Design, build, and operate pulsed power systems, including high-voltage and high-current architectures.
  • Design, build, and operate control systems for pulsed power operation, safety, and automation.
  • Rapid prototyping for fusion technology applications.
  • Operate pulsed power systems during testing and data acquisition campaigns, including occasional work outside regular business hours.
  • Ensure safe, reliable operation of high-energy systems in accordance with company safety protocols.
  • Acquire, process, and analyze data from pulsed power experiments to evaluate system performance and stability.
  • Develop tools and workflows for data collection, visualization, and interpretation.
  • Translate experimental results into actionable insights for next-generation pulser design.
  • Take ownership of pulsed power subsystem advancement and roadmap execution.
  • Lead design reviews, experimental planning, and technical documentation.
  • Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and plasma physics teams to iterate and improve designs.
  • Drive continuous improvement in reliability, efficiency, and diagnostic capability.
What You Bring
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, or a related field.
  • Demonstrated experience designing and operating pulsed power systems and related experiments.
  • Proven ability to deliver complex R&D projects on schedule, from concept to prototype to validation.
  • Experience building and managing multidisciplinary teams of engineers and scientists.
  • Expertise in pulse power and plasma diagnostics, including voltage, current, and optical instrumentation.
  • Strong background in electronic design, control systems, and PLC software development.
  • Experience with vacuum systems design, operation, and diagnostics.
  • Proficiency in circuit simulations (e.g., SPICE, PSCAD, COMSOL, or similar) and data analysis using Python, MATLAB, or equivalent tools.
  • Familiarity with engineering modeling and CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, ANSYS, or COMSOL Multiphysics).
Preferred Skills
  • Advanced degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) in Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, or a related field.
  • Prior experience with high-voltage pulsed systems for fusion, plasma research, or accelerator applications.
  • Hands-on experience integrating diagnostics and controls for high-energy experiments.
  • Knowledge of safety standards and best practices in high-voltage or high-energy environments.

Apply