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Assistant Physicist Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

UC Davis Health

Medical Physics Faculty

Sacramento, CA · On-site

... Assistant/Associate Professor in the Health Sciences Clinical Professor series (HSCP), salary ... D. in Medical Physics or related field of study pertinent to medical physics and be board eligible ...

Canyons School District

$89.24/hr

Physics Opening Date: 10/05/2023 Description We are now accepting applications for the Adjunct ... Part-time faculty positions offer flexible hours and the opportunity to assist a diverse group of ...

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How much do assistant physicist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant physicist in California is $20.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.15 and $20.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant physicist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Physicist, you need a strong background in physics, mathematics, and research methodology, typically supported by at least a bachelor's or master's degree in physics or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data analysis software (such as MATLAB or Python), and scientific computing is often required. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for success in collaborative research environments. These skills and qualities are vital for conducting precise experiments, analyzing data accurately, and contributing meaningfully to scientific advancements.

What types of projects and collaborations can an assistant physicist expect to be involved with in a research institution?

As an Assistant Physicist at a research institution, you will typically engage in both independent and team-based projects that contribute to ongoing experiments, data analysis, and theoretical modeling. Collaboration is a key aspect of the role, often involving close work with senior physicists, engineers, postdoctoral researchers, and sometimes external partners or institutions. You may regularly attend group meetings, present findings, and contribute technical expertise to interdisciplinary teams. This collaborative environment provides opportunities to learn from experienced colleagues, develop your research skills, and expand your professional network. Over time, successful project involvement can open doors to advancement within the institution or in related fields.

What is an assistant physicist?

Assistant Physicists are early-career scientists who support and contribute to research projects in the field of physics. They typically work under the supervision of senior physicists, assisting with experimental design, data collection, analysis, and the preparation of scientific reports or publications. Their work spans various areas, such as condensed matter, particle physics, or applied physics, depending on the institution or laboratory. Assistant Physicists often work at universities, national laboratories, or research institutes, and the position is usually a stepping stone toward more senior research or faculty roles.
What are the most commonly searched types of Physicist jobs in California? The most popular types of Physicist jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Assistant Physicist jobs in California? For Assistant Physicist jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Assistant Physicist jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Assistant Physicist jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Assistant Physicist jobs? Cities in California with the most Assistant Physicist job openings:
Assistant Physicist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Assistant Physicist job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,655 per year, or $20.5 per hour.

Department of Physics - Assistant/Associate Professor, Tenure Track

La Sierra University

Riverside, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

The Department of Physics invites applications for a full-time, tenure-track faculty position to begin on one of two possible starting dates as follows: January 1, 2027 or July 1, 2027, at assistant professor or associate professor rank. Applicants must meet the University's requirements for faculty rank of Assistant or Associate Professor, including a terminal degree earned in the field, and demonstrate a clear potential for excellence in teaching and research. Candidates near the completion of a terminal degree will also be considered.

The successful applicant will be responsible for teaching about 2-3 lecture courses and 1-2 lab courses per quarter, conducting original research, advising, and serving on various committees on campus. Candidates with expertise in any area of physics or biophysics are encouraged to apply, with preference given to those who can teach upper division biophysics courses.

While full-faculty are paid throughout the 12 months of the year, the appointment is for the 9-months academic year. Initially, the primary responsibilities will be focused on teaching lower division service courses with their associated labs. It is expected that over time the teaching load will adjust to include upper division physics or biophysics courses, as needed. Other responsibilities will be to conduct original research while involving undergraduate students and participating in committee service as part of the shared governance model of La Sierra University.

The successful candidate will 1) effectively teach a variety of physics and biophysics courses to a diverse student body, promoting both accessibility and high achievement, 2) successfully interact with students in a lab setting and in office hours, 3) supervise student lab assistants, 4) involve students in research while teaching them skills to be successful independent and creative thinkers who can contribute to the scientific community, and 5) regularly attend departmental faculty meetings, school meetings, and school/university committees. This position does not require applying for external grants for funding research, but it is encouraged.

Qualifications 

Candidates are required to have a PhD in physics, biophysics, or a related field. Significant teaching experience at the undergraduate level is desired, including both lower division service courses and upper division major courses.  Post-doctoral experience with a track record of sustainable original research is preferred. To be considered for the rank of associate professor, a candidate must have a teaching and research record lasting at least five years, including at least two publications as primary author. Preference will be given to candidates who are Seventh-day Adventist.

Salary Wage Range: $70,304 to $78,501 plus generous benefits: 

Assistant professor - PhD $70,304

Associate professor - PhD $71,872 - $78,501

Benefits include:

  • Comprehensive health coverage 
  • Tuition Assistance (spouse and dependent eligibility)
  • FSA, Pet Insurance, Legal Services, Identity Protections Services, and more!

Apply