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Applied Physics Laboratory Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Applied Physics Engineer

Tukwila, WA · On-site

$98K - $133K/yr

Applied Physics Engineer Company: The Boeing Company At Boeing, we innovate and collaborate to make ... Designing laboratory tests that unambiguously address customer questions and requirements in an ...

Applied Physics Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$98K - $133K/yr

Applied Physics Engineer Company: The Boeing Company At Boeing, we innovate and collaborate to make ... Designing laboratory tests that unambiguously address customer questions and requirements in an ...

Applied Physics Engineer

Tukwila, WA · On-site

$98K - $133K/yr

Applied Physics Engineer Company: The Boeing Company At Boeing, we innovate and collaborate to make ... Designing laboratory tests that unambiguously address customer questions and requirements in an ...

Applied Physics is seeking a highly motivated and experienced seismologist to join our ... Organize, analyze, and interpret large geophysical sets from ongoing laboratory/field operations ...

Applied Physics is seeking a highly motivated and experienced seismologist to join our ... Organize, analyze, and interpret large geophysical sets from ongoing laboratory/field operations ...

Applied Physics is seeking a highly motivated and experienced seismologist to join our ... Organize, analyze, and interpret large geophysical sets from ongoing laboratory/field operations ...

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Applied Physics Laboratory information

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How much do applied physics laboratory jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for applied physics laboratory 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 Laboratory Scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Applied Physics Laboratory Scientist, you need a solid background in physics, mathematics, and engineering, typically supported by at least a bachelor's or master's degree in a related field. Familiarity with laboratory instrumentation, data analysis software (such as MATLAB or LabVIEW), and simulation tools is commonly required. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and strong teamwork skills help individuals excel in collaborative research environments. These abilities are crucial for designing experiments, interpreting complex data, and driving innovation in scientific and technological advancements.

What is an Applied Physics Laboratory?

An Applied Physics Laboratory is a research and development center where scientists and engineers use principles of physics to solve real-world problems, often through applied research and technological innovation. These laboratories typically work on projects related to national security, space exploration, healthcare, and advanced materials, bridging the gap between basic science and practical applications. Staff members may design experiments, develop prototypes, and collaborate with government agencies, academic institutions, or private industry. The Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory, for example, is known for its contributions to national defense and space science. Working at an Applied Physics Laboratory usually requires strong analytical skills and a background in physics, engineering, or a related field.

What is the difference between Applied Physics Laboratory vs Physicist?

AspectApplied Physics LaboratoryPhysicist
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's or master's degree in physics, engineering, or related fieldsUsually requires a master's or Ph.D. in physics or related disciplines
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, government agencies, defense contractorsUniversities, research institutions, government labs
Employer & IndustryGovernment, defense, aerospace, research organizationsAcademic, research, government agencies
Job FocusApplied research, development, and testing of technologiesTheoretical research, experimental studies, data analysis

The Applied Physics Laboratory focuses on applied research and development within government and industry settings, often working on practical projects. In contrast, a Physicist may work in academia or research institutions, emphasizing theoretical and experimental physics. Both roles require strong physics credentials but differ in their work environment and project focus.

What types of projects do team members typically work on at an Applied Physics Laboratory?

Team members at an Applied Physics Laboratory often engage in multidisciplinary projects that address complex scientific and engineering challenges, such as developing advanced sensors, autonomous systems, or defense technologies. These projects typically require close collaboration with experts in fields like computer science, electrical engineering, and materials science. The work environment is highly collaborative and research-driven, with frequent opportunities to contribute to cutting-edge solutions that have real-world impact. Employees often participate in both independent research and large, multi-institutional initiatives, gaining valuable experience in project management and teamwork.
More about Applied Physics Laboratory jobs
What cities are hiring for Applied Physics Laboratory jobs? Cities with the most Applied Physics Laboratory job openings:
What states have the most Applied Physics Laboratory jobs? States with the most job openings for Applied Physics Laboratory jobs include:
Infographic showing various Applied Physics Laboratory job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,731 per year, or $20.1 per hour.
Applied Physics Engineer

Applied Physics Engineer

Boeing

Tukwila, WA • On-site

$98K - $133K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted 8 days ago


Boeing rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 585 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

33rd of 516 rated manufacturers


Job description

Applied Physics Engineer
Company:
The Boeing Company
At Boeing, we innovate and collaborate to make the world a better place. We're committed to fostering an environment for every teammate that's welcoming, respectful and inclusive, with great opportunity for professional growth. Find your future with us.
The Boeing Company is looking for a Applied Physics Engineer to join the Boeing Engineering & Technology Innovation (E&TI) Applied Physics team in Tukwila, Washington.
As an early career Engineer in the E&TI Applied Physics team, you will work with senior lab personnel to perform testing to validate the performance of components designed to fly on Boeing products. The role supports both the Shock Physics and Radiation Effects Labs. As a member of the Shock Physics Lab, you will work with other lab members to design, build, and perform laboratory testing of gaseous combustion, ballistic impact, hypervelocity impact, blast loading, and other high strain-rate systems. In the Boeing Radiation Effects Lab (BREL), you will you will design, build, and perform laboratory testing of ionizing and non-ionizing radiation effects assessments of electrical components and materials. These tests will support product development and certification for a broad dynamic range of Boeing programs including those in our Boeing Commercial Airplane (BCA) and Boeing Defense and Space (BDS) business units.
Position Responsibilities:
This is a laboratory testing role. Your duties will include (but are not limited to):
  • Designing laboratory tests that unambiguously address customer questions and requirements in an affordable and safe manner.
  • Coordinating with machine shops and technicians to construct experiment set-ups and install instrumentation.
  • Safely performing tests using hazardous materials including ordnance, flammables, corrosives, ionizing and non-ionizing radiation.
  • Analyzing experiment data using computational tools (Matlab preferred).

Accuracy and safety are key. You will be expected to:
  • Operate in a dynamic test environment under supervision.
  • Develop draft test procedures for approval by the lab lead that are safe and will produce accurate results.

You will work under direction. The ability to obtain security clearance is a plus. Obtaining clearance requires a background investigation by U.S. government authorities. This is a sensitive/safety-sensitive position and is subject to random drug and alcohol testing.
Basic Qualifications (Required Skills/ Experience):
  • Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering, Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry or non-US equivalent qualifications directly related to the work statement
  • Experience do you have working in a dynamic test laboratory
  • 1+ years of survivability, vulnerability, susceptibility engineering experience
  • 1+ years of experience working with Matlab?

Preferred Qualifications (Desired Skills/Experience):
  • Hands-on experience with rapid energy release processes (e.g., gaseous combustion, ballistics or hypervelocity impacts) is desirable
  • Resourceful person who is enthusiastic about working in a hands-on laboratory environment
  • Experience performing tests in an engineering, physics, or chemistry laboratory
  • Hands-on experience with radiation effects testing

Travel:
10%
Drug Free Workplace:
Boeing is a Drug Free Workplace (DFW) where post offer applicants and employees are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria is met as outlined in our policies.
Pay & Benefits:
At Boeing, we strive to deliver a Total Rewards package that will attract, engage and retain the top talent. Elements of the Total Rewards package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities.
The Boeing Company also provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work.
The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.
Pay is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
Summary Pay Range for Associate Level (Level 2): $98,600 - 133,400
Language Requirements:
Not Applicable
Education:
Bachelor's Degree or Equivalent
Relocation:
Relocation assistance is not a negotiable benefit for this position.
Export Control Requirement:
This position must meet U.S. export control compliance requirements. To meet U.S. export control compliance requirements, a "U.S. Person" as defined by 22 C.F.R. §120.62 is required. "U.S. Person" includes U.S. Citizen, U.S. National, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee.
Safety Sensitive:
This is not a Safety Sensitive Position.
Security Clearance:
This position requires the ability to obtain a U.S. Security Clearance for which the U.S. Government requires U.S. Citizenship. An interim U.S. Top Secret Clearance Pre-Start and final U.S. Top Secret Clearance Post-Start is required.
Visa Sponsorship:
Employer will not sponsor applicants for employment visa status.
Contingent Upon Award Program
This position is not contingent upon program award
Shift:
Shift 1 (United States of America)
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Boeing is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.
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