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Applied Physics Masters Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Masters with 2+ years of relevant experience; or Doctoral degree in physics, applied physics, engineering, applied mathematics, or a related scientific field. US Citizenship and able to maintain a ...

Applied Physicist III

San Diego, CA · On-site

$87K - $157K/yr

Masters with 2+ years of relevant experience; or Doctoral degree in physics, applied physics, engineering, applied mathematics, or a related scientific field. • US Citizenship and able to maintain ...

Masters with 2+ years of relevant experience; or Doctoral degree in physics, applied physics, engineering, applied mathematics, or a related scientific field. · US Citizenship and able to maintain a ...

Masters with 2+ years of relevant experience; or Doctoral degree in physics, applied physics, engineering, applied mathematics, or a related scientific field. · US Citizenship and able to maintain a ...

Masters with 2+ years of relevant experience; or Doctoral degree in physics, applied physics, engineering, applied mathematics, or a related scientific field. · US Citizenship and able to maintain a ...

Applied Physicist III

La Jolla, CA · On-site

$87K - $157K/yr

Masters with 2+ years of relevant experience; or Doctoral degree in physics, applied physics, engineering, applied mathematics, or a related scientific field. · US Citizenship and able to maintain a ...

Applied Physicist III

Chula Vista, CA · On-site

$87K - $157K/yr

Masters with 2+ years of relevant experience; or Doctoral degree in physics, applied physics, engineering, applied mathematics, or a related scientific field. · US Citizenship and able to maintain a ...

Masters with 2+ years of relevant experience; or Doctoral degree in physics, applied physics, engineering, applied mathematics, or a related scientific field. · US Citizenship and able to maintain a ...

Masters with 2+ years of relevant experience; or Doctoral degree in physics, applied physics, engineering, applied mathematics, or a related scientific field. · US Citizenship and able to maintain a ...

Physics (can be Applied Physics or other variants) or Masters with relevant work experience but not desk experience. * A background in experimental physics and an understanding of optics Desired ...

Physics (can be Applied Physics or other variants) or Masters with relevant work experience but not desk experience. * A background in experimental physics and an understanding of optics Desired ...

Physics (can be Applied Physics or other variants) or Masters with relevant work experience but not desk experience. * A background in experimental physics and an understanding of optics Desired ...

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Applied Physics Masters information

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$39K

$46.9K

$52.5K

How much do applied physics masters jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for applied physics masters in the United States is $46,902.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,500.00 and $50,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Applied Physics Master's graduate, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Applied Physics Master's graduate, you need a strong background in advanced physics, mathematics, and problem-solving, typically supported by a relevant master's degree. Familiarity with simulation software (such as MATLAB or COMSOL), laboratory instrumentation, and data analysis tools is often required. Strong analytical thinking, creativity, and effective communication skills help in translating complex concepts to practical applications and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams. These skills and qualities are crucial for innovating and solving real-world scientific and engineering challenges.

Is a degree in applied physics worth it?

A degree in applied physics is valuable for careers in research, engineering, and technology development, as it provides strong analytical, problem-solving, and technical skills. Graduates often find opportunities in industries such as aerospace, electronics, and data analysis, with job prospects improving with practical experience and proficiency in tools like programming and laboratory techniques.

What is an Applied Physics Masters degree?

An Applied Physics Masters degree is a graduate program focused on the practical application of physics principles to solve real-world problems in technology, engineering, and industry. Students gain a strong foundation in advanced physics topics while learning to apply these concepts to areas such as materials science, electronics, optics, and computational modeling. The program combines theoretical coursework with hands-on research or projects, preparing graduates for careers in research and development, engineering, or further academic study.

What types of projects or research might I work on as an Applied Physics Masters graduate in an industry role?

As an Applied Physics Masters graduate working in industry, you can expect to contribute to projects involving the development of new materials, advanced imaging technologies, semiconductor devices, or renewable energy solutions. Your daily responsibilities might include experimental design, data analysis, simulation work, and collaboration with engineers and product development teams. The role often requires cross-functional teamwork, as you'll translate complex physics concepts into practical applications that address real-world challenges.

What is the difference between Applied Physics Masters vs Physicist?

AspectApplied Physics MastersPhysicist
Required CredentialsMaster's degree in applied physics or related fieldTypically a PhD in physics or related specialization
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, industry, technology companiesResearch institutions, government labs, academia
Employer & Industry UsageTech firms, manufacturing, R&D departmentsUniversities, government agencies, research organizations

Applied Physics Masters graduates often work in industry-focused roles applying physics principles, while physicists usually engage in research and academic or government projects. Both roles require strong physics knowledge, but physicists typically hold higher degrees and focus more on theoretical research.

More about Applied Physics Masters jobs
What cities are hiring for Applied Physics Masters jobs? Cities with the most Applied Physics Masters job openings:
What states have the most Applied Physics Masters jobs? States with the most job openings for Applied Physics Masters jobs include:
Infographic showing various Applied Physics Masters job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,902 per year, or $22.5 per hour.
Applied Physicist III

Applied Physicist III

Leidos

San Diego, CA

$87K - $157K/yr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


Leidos rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 146 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

55th of 426 rated business services


Job description

Leidos addresses some of the nation's toughest defense challenges through advanced physics-based modeling, signal processing, and data analytics. Our San Diego-based team consists of highly skilled scientists and engineers focused on extracting maximum intelligence from complex radar and sensor data for both classified and unclassified systems. We are seeking a motivated and inquisitive Applied Physicist who thrives in research, algorithm development, modeling, simulation, and implementation. The ideal candidate demonstrates strong scientific curiosity, sound physical intuition, excellent mathematical skills, and a commitment to continuous learning.

Primary Responsibilities

Develop physics-based models, simulations, and analysis algorithms that support National Defense applications.

Research, design, and evaluate innovative approaches for radar/sensor phenomenology, detection, characterization, and data exploitation.

Apply applied physics, mathematics, and signal processing techniques to extract useful information from complex measured and simulated data sets.

Perform data analysis, model validation, uncertainty assessment, and performance characterization for algorithms and systems.

Create efficient implementations of scientific algorithms in MATLAB, Python, or similar high-level languages.

Document methods, results, and assumptions clearly for technical peers, program leadership, and customers.

Work collegially within a talented multidisciplinary team of scientists, engineers, mathematicians, and software developers.

Basic Qualifications

BS degree with 5+ years of prior relevant applied physics, radar/sensor modeling, signal processing, data analysis, or scientific algorithm development experience; Masters with 2+ years of relevant experience; or Doctoral degree in physics, applied physics, engineering, applied mathematics, or a related scientific field.

US Citizenship and able to maintain a Top Secret security clearance.

Experience developing, analyzing, or validating physics-based models, simulations, or scientific algorithms.

Excellent analytical, mathematical, and problem-solving skills.

Fluency in MATLAB, Python, or a similar high-level scientific computing language.

Ability to translate physical concepts into algorithms, simulations, and quantitative analyses.

Proven track record of innovation, technical problem solving, and achieving results in a research or engineering environment.

Strong documentation and communication skills.

Required on-site full-time work in San Diego, CA.

Preferred Qualifications

Understanding of radar phenomenology, electromagnetic scattering, detection, estimation, or characterization.

Experience with modeling and simulation of physical systems, sensor systems, remote sensing, ocean/environmental phenomenology, or related data-intensive applications.

Experience programming in C/C++ or developing efficient production-quality scientific software.

Experience with statistical analysis, estimation theory, optimization, machine learning, or uncertainty quantification.

Comfortable with public speaking and/or customer presentations.

If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo - because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 - and moving faster than anyone else dares.

Original Posting:May 27, 2026

For U.S. Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above.

Pay Range:Pay Range $87,100.00 - $157,450.00

The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline onlyand not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.


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About Leidos

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people who are dedicated to our customers' success. We empower our teams, contribute to our communities, and operate sustainable practices. Everything we do is built on a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Reston, VA, US

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