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Applied Physics Lab Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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How much do applied physics lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 19, 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 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 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.

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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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:
Infographic showing various Applied Physics Lab job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 49% Full Time, 49% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 73% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 25% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,731 per year, or $20.1 per hour.
Simulation Software Engineer with Security Clearance

Simulation Software Engineer with Security Clearance

Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory

Laurel, MD

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Description Are you a versatile developer who wants to apply modern software practices to solve critical, real-world challenges in strike weapon technology? Are you a software engineer who is naturally curious about how things work and loves collaborating with experts to build the right scientific computing solutions? If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL. The Strike Guidance, Navigation, Control, and Seekers group is looking for a Simulation Software Engineer to help us architect, develop, and modernize physics-based simulations across a wide-ranging set of programs. Our group's goal is to ensure the United States has a distinct technology advantage in autonomous systems by leading the next generation of development and prototyping. We do this by providing world class design solutions with a focus on: * Guidance, Navigation, and Controls
* Radio Frequency (RF) and Electro-Optical/Infrared (EO/IR) Sensors
* Modeling and Simulation (M&S)
* Hardware/Software Development & Test
* Multi-Disciplinary Design Optimization
We develop and apply simulations to explore these areas across a variety of systems including hypersonic missiles, submarines, cruise missiles, and autonomous flight vehicles. As a member of our team, you will apply advanced programming techniques and design skills to develop sophisticated simulations and algorithms in many or all of these domains. We are committed to developing exceptional talent and fostering a culture of innovation, and as part of our group, you will have a chance to grow your expertise across these technologies. As a Simulation Software Engineer, you will... * Develop physics-based models, algorithms, and simulations, applying modern software engineering practices and next-generation technologies to advance our capabilities.
* Work closely with our cross-disciplinary team of engineers as well as simulation architecture experts across the lab to design innovate solutions to critical challenges.
* Adapt simulations and algorithms to run on high-performance systems (such as cluster compute environments) or to integrate with test hardware. Qualifications You will meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you... * Have a BS in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, Applied Mathematics, or a related field.
* Have professional experience developing simulations or other scientific computing applications using C++ or a similar language.
* Have proficiency with a high-level programming language such as Matlab/Simulink or Python.
* Have experience developing software both individually and as part of a collaborative team, applying standard software engineering practices such as version control, CI/CD, test development, and containerization.
* Are passionate about scientific computing and eager to learn domain-specific topics including guidance, navigation, control, and seekers.
* Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately acquire a Top Secret clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government secret clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.
You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you... * Have an MS in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, Applied Mathematics, or a related field.
* Have at least one year of professional experience developing simulations or other scientific computing applications using object oriented C++.
* Have experience developing physics-based kinematic simulations (i.e. 6DOF), IR and RF seeker simulations, or simulations involving GNC algorithms.
* Have experience designing, training, and deploying machine learning solutions to real-world problems, utilizing tools and frameworks such as TensorFlow or PyTorch.
* Have experience in one or more of the following areas: high performance computing (HPC); Nvidia CUDA or other GPU programming; FPGA programming; highly concurrent systems; signal processing; writing software that interfaces with embedded systems hardware or other hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) simulations.
* Are skilled developing software in both Linux and Windows environments using CMake and Visual Studio.
* Currently possess an active Secret security clearance with the ability to obtain a 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 $85,000 Annually Maximum Rate $195,000 Annually