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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.
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Applied Physics Lab jobs near you
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.
Electrical Hardware Engineer with Security Clearance

Electrical Hardware Engineer with Security Clearance

Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory

Laurel, MD • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

Description Are you a hands-on engineer that enjoys developing and fielding groundbreaking autonomous systems and capabilities? In the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory's (APL) Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Group, we use applied engineering to field tomorrow's groundbreaking solutions for a set of government organizations. Dedicated, passionate, and self-driven multidisciplinary staff work side-by-side in the lab and in the field to build solutions to critically important challenges. The people who work here embrace challenges, adapt to dynamic changing environments, and are continually looking to advance their technical and leadership skills. We employ the groundbreaking research done at APL to field mission ready systems. Our passion for engineering innovative solutions also applies to mentoring and coaching junior staff to continue to strengthen our impactful teams. Are you interested in being a member of our group? Join us at APL, a national leader in scientific research and development, and an employer that prioritizes innovation, impact, and personal development! We are seeking an electrical hardware engineer with a strong technical background in circuit design to help us rapidly field autonomous sensor systems. You will support the development of systems that collect information in some of the most austere environments around the globe to help our partners complete their mission. You will demonstrate technical expertise by contributing to critical system development and experimental efforts. As an Electrical Hardware Engineer you will... * Leverage your skills to design, fabricate, and integrate custom printed circuit boards for use in embedded systems involving both digital interfaces and analog sensors.
* Develop and maintain system architectures of embedded systems. * Specify, identify, and integrate commercial and custom components for the rapid development of electronic systems.
* Conduct design reviews, bench testing, and field testing to debug your embedded designs.
* Document system development, engineering analysis, and testing consistent with quality requirements and present information to review teams.
* Travel into the field to test and demonstrate the systems you design and train users and operators. Qualifications You meet our minimum qualification for the job if you... * Have a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field of study.
* Have 3+ years of relevant experience with embedded systems, to include design, development, integration, and/or test of hardware systems. * Have demonstrated an ability and willingness to multi-task across several projects and work independently in small teams while meeting quick turnaround demands.
* Are willing and able to work in classified laboratories and oceans around the world to conduct field testing for 10% of your time. * Can interact effectively with team members of different experience levels and backgrounds.
* Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a Top Secret level clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship. You will go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you... * Have a Master's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field of study
* Have 5+ years of relevant experience with embedded systems, to include design, development, integration, and/or test of hardware systems.
* Have experience with the development, design, or integration with autonomous vehicles * Possess an active Top Secret clearance. About Us Why Work at APL? The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates. At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact . The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Minimum Rate $100,000 Annually Maximum Rate $290,000 Annually

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