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Atomic Physics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AOSense, Inc.

Physicist

Fremont, CA · On-site

We are seeking physicists with expertise in atomic physics. As a Physicist at AOSense, you will apply your experience in laser technology and atomic physics to design, build, optimize, and test ...

AOSense, Inc.

Physicist

Fremont, CA

We are seeking physicists with expertise in atomic physics. As a Physicist at AOSense, you will apply your experience in laser technology and atomic physics to design, build, optimize, and test ...

AOSense, Inc.

Physicist

Fremont, CA · On-site

We are seeking physicists with expertise in atomic physics. As a Physicist at AOSense, you will apply your experience in laser technology and atomic physics to design, build, optimize, and test ...

Logiqal, Inc

Atomic Physicist

Princeton, NJ · On-site

$130K - $175K/yr

Based in Princeton, NJ our founding physics team has decades of combined research experience at ... Neutral atom quantum computers, or closely related topics in experimental atomic physics * Quantum ...

Infleqtion

Quantum Physicist

Boulder, CO · On-site

$130K - $211K/yr

PhD in atomic physics, optical physics, or related field; or equivalent related professional experience (4+ years); If you have substantially more experience than this and are excited to apply ...

Infleqtion

Quantum Physicist

Chicago, IL

$130K - $211K/yr

PhD in atomic physics, optical physics, or related field; or equivalent related professional experience (4+ years); If you have substantially more experience than this and are excited to apply ...

Infleqtion

Quantum Physicist

Madison, WI · On-site

$130K - $211K/yr

PhD in atomic physics, optical physics, or related field; or equivalent related professional experience (4+ years); If you have substantially more experience than this and are excited to apply ...

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How much do atomic physics jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for atomic physics 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 Atomic Physicist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Atomic Physicist, you need a strong background in physics and mathematics, typically supported by a Ph.D. in physics or a closely related field. Familiarity with advanced laboratory equipment, simulation software (such as MATLAB or COMSOL), and experience with spectroscopy or quantum measurement systems is essential. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective collaboration are important soft skills for designing experiments and interpreting complex data. These skills and qualities are crucial for advancing research, solving scientific problems, and contributing to technological innovations in atomic physics.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in atomic physics research roles?

Professionals in atomic physics research often encounter challenges such as managing complex experimental setups, interpreting intricate data, and staying current with rapidly evolving technologies. Collaboration is key, as projects frequently require input from multidisciplinary teams, including engineers and computational scientists. Additionally, securing research funding and publishing results in high-impact journals can be competitive, requiring persistence and strong communication skills.

What is atomic physics?

Atomic physics is a branch of physics that studies atoms as isolated systems, primarily focusing on the behavior, properties, and interactions of electrons and the atomic nucleus. It explores topics such as electron configurations, ionization, atomic spectra, and how atoms interact with electromagnetic fields. Atomic physicists often investigate phenomena like energy levels, atomic transitions, and the effects of external forces on atoms. This field is fundamental in understanding the structure of matter and has applications in areas such as quantum computing, laser technology, and spectroscopy.

What is the difference between Atomic Physics vs Nuclear Physics?

AspectAtomic PhysicsNuclear Physics
Required credentialsBachelor's or Master's in Physics; PhD often preferredBachelor's or Master's in Physics or Nuclear Engineering; PhD common
Work environmentResearch labs, universities, government agenciesResearch labs, nuclear facilities, government agencies
Industry usageFundamental research, spectroscopy, quantum mechanicsNuclear energy, medical imaging, nuclear safety

Atomic Physics focuses on the behavior of electrons and atoms, often involving quantum mechanics and spectroscopy. Nuclear Physics studies the nucleus of atoms, including nuclear reactions and radioactivity. While both fields require strong physics backgrounds and often overlap in research settings, they differ in their focus areas and applications.

More about Atomic Physics jobs
What cities are hiring for Atomic Physics jobs? Cities with the most Atomic Physics job openings:
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What job categories do people searching Atomic Physics jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Atomic Physics jobs are:
Atomic Physics jobs near you
Infographic showing various Atomic Physics job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 16% Physical, and 84% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,731 per year, or $20.1 per hour.
Scientist: Senior Quantum Optics, Atomic Physics Scientist

Scientist: Senior Quantum Optics, Atomic Physics Scientist

Nanobiosym

Cambridge, MA • On-site

$70K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Please fully fill out our online application and upload your cover letter and resume or your application will not be considered.
Description of Company:
Nanobiosym stands at the forefront of transforming personalized medicine, breakthrough technologies, and global healthcare delivery. Founded by a distinguished MIT- and Harvard-trained Physician and Physicist, Nanobiosym develops pioneering platform technologies that leverage cutting-edge advances in physics, biomedicine, and nanotechnology.
As the first-ever recipient of the XPRIZE for healthcare and the winner of multiple prestigious peer-reviewed research awards, Nanobiosym is expanding its world-class team as it transitions into a global commercial enterprise.
Senior Quantum Optics, Atomic Physics Scientist
We are seeking an exceptional Senior Optical Physicist with deep expertise in experimental and applied optics. Ideal candidates will possess a PhD (or equivalent experience) in Experimental Physics, Optical Physics, Atomic Physics (Advanced Instrumentation, Signal to noise optimization), Electrical Engineering, or a related field, with 5+ years of hands-on research experience.
Key Technical Qualifications
  • Extensive, hands-on optical bench expertise, including the design, construction, alignment, and maintenance of complex optical setups involving advanced laser sources.
  • Strong foundation in optical physics, with proven ability to model, analyze, troubleshoot, and refine sophisticated optical systems.
  • Experience in quantum optics and atomic physics, such as laser-matter interactions, single-molecule imaging, precision measurement techniques, advanced detection systems, or atomic-scale instrumentation (preferred).
  • Demonstrated experience in laser trapping and laser cooling for cold atoms or related precision laser-based manipulation applications (preferred).
  • Optical tweezers design and operation is required.
  • Mastery of high-precision optical alignment across multiple degrees of freedom.
  • Advanced programming proficiency in LabVIEW and MATLAB.
  • Strong competence in data acquisition, signal processing, and statistical analysis.
  • Experience working with acousto-optic modulators/deflectors and other high-precision photonics components.
  • Expertise in signal-to-noise optimization, including vibration isolation methodologies and noise-reduction strategies.
  • Additional experience with mechanical CAD, machine shop tools, and opto-mechanical design is a strong plus.

Professional Attributes
  • Highly organized, detail-oriented, and capable of managing multiple parallel projects within a fast-paced startup environment.
  • Demonstrates a proactive, solution-driven mindset with a strong "can-do" attitude.
  • Excellent communication, documentation, and interpersonal skills.
  • Thrives in an interdisciplinary environment working alongside physicists, engineers, biologists, entrepreneurs, and senior executives

Apply