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How much do atomic physics jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 12, 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 jobs can a nuclear physicist do?

A nuclear physicist can work in research and development, academia, or industry, focusing on nuclear energy, medical imaging, radiation safety, or nuclear weapons. They often work in laboratories, government agencies, or private companies, utilizing skills in data analysis, experimental design, and specialized equipment. Advanced degrees and security clearances are common requirements for many positions.

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.

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's the highest paying physics job?

In atomic physics, high-paying roles include research scientists in government or private sector laboratories, often requiring advanced degrees and specialized skills. Positions such as senior research scientists or physics department heads typically offer the highest salaries, especially with experience and security clearances.

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 does an atomic physicist do?

An atomic physicist studies the properties and behavior of atoms, including atomic structure, spectra, and interactions. They often conduct experiments using specialized equipment like lasers and particle accelerators and analyze data to understand fundamental atomic phenomena, contributing to fields such as quantum mechanics and materials science.

How much do atomic physicists make?

Atomic physicists typically earn a median annual salary of around $100,000, with salaries varying based on experience, education, and location. Those with advanced degrees and research experience working in academia, government labs, or private industry may earn higher salaries, often exceeding $120,000 annually.

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.
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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 35% Full Time, 64% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 40% Physical, and 60% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,731 per year, or $20.1 per hour.
Quantum Theorist, Atomic Physics Focus

Quantum Theorist, Atomic Physics Focus

Atom Computing

Berkeley, CA

$160K - $185K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

At Atom Computing, we build quantum computers using arrays of optically trapped neutral atoms that will empower customers to achieve unprecedented computational breakthroughs. Join a talented team of scientists, engineers, and business professionals to advance the state-of-the-art in quantum computing.

Atom Computing is seeking a Quantum Theorist to contribute to a variety of projects that help with the development of neutral atom quantum computing. In this role, you'll be working directly with other theorists and experimentalists to model our quantum computers, improve calibration routines, characterize machine performance, and propose methods for their overall advancement. You'll work within an expert team of atomic physics and quantum error correction theorists that shapes future system design and supports experimental progress. 

This role reports to the Quantum Theory Manager within Atom Computing's Applications & Theory department. Applications will be considered for our Berkeley, CA or Boulder, CO office.

Job Responsibilities
  • Conduct independent and/or collaborative theoretical and computational projects that drive the understanding and development of neutral atom quantum computers.
  • Contribute to the development and operation of a variety of atomic physics simulations and translate them into high-quality, maintainable software solutions.
  • Collaborate with Experimentalists, Quantum Engineers, Error Correction Theorists, and AMO Theorists to model experimental results, develop noise models for quantum hardware, and contribute to the design of neutral-atom quantum computers.
  • Write clean, well-tested, and documented code in multiple languages (preferrably Python, Julia, or C++).
Experience & Education

  • PhD in Physics, Mathematics, Engineering, Computer Science or a related field.

Qualifications
  • Deep understanding of atomic, molecular and optical physics. Experience working with or modeling of Rydberg atoms is particularly appreciated.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills, with published results within their field of research.
  • Technical expertise spanning atomic structure, quantum optics, and qubit control, e.g. using QutiP, QuantumOptics.jl, or equivalent.
  • Familiarity with modern software development practices: version control, unit testing, continuous integration, and documentation.
  • Temperamentally suited to work at a fast-growing startup: self-motivated, humble, driven, collaborative, with a high tolerance for ambiguity and uncertainty.

Atom Computing provides a wide variety of perks and benefits, including fully paid medical, dental, and vision insurance for our employees and their dependents. Additionally, unlimited paid time off, 401K company matching, short- and long-term disability, FSA, dependent care benefits, and life insurance.  We also offer drinks, snacks, and catered team lunches in our offices, every day!

The base salary range for this position is between $160,000 - $185,000, commensurate with experience. In addition to salary, we offer an annual bonus and equity in the company.

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