ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Atomic Physics Jobs in California (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 ...

JPL

Technologist III

La Canada Flintridge, CA · On-site

Atomic physics technical background * Extensive experience with atom interferometry systems and research. * Experience with atom interferometry for gravity measurement/sensing. * Demonstrated success ...

Vector Atomic

Manufacturing Engineer

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$110K - $135K/yr

Experience with frequency combs, ultra-stable lasers, atomic physics systems, frequency standards, or free space optical systems. * Familiarity with vacuum systems, thermal control, or vibration ...

Vector Atomic

Manufacturing Engineer

Pleasanton, CA

$110K - $135K/yr

Experience with frequency combs, ultra-stable lasers, atomic physics systems, frequency standards, or free space optical systems. * Familiarity with vacuum systems, thermal control, or vibration ...

JPL

Technologist III

Pasadena, CA · On-site

Atomic physics technical background * Extensive experience with atom interferometry systems and research. * Experience with atom interferometry for gravity measurement/sensing. * Demonstrated success ...

Vector Atomic

Manufacturing Engineer

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$110K - $135K/yr

Experience with frequency combs, ultra-stable lasers, atomic physics systems, frequency standards, or free space optical systems. * Familiarity with vacuum systems, thermal control, or vibration ...

Vector Atomic, Inc.

Manufacturing Engineer

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$110 - $135/hr

Experience with frequency combs, ultra‑stable lasers, atomic physics systems, frequency standards, or free‑space optical systems. * Familiarity with vacuum systems, thermal control, or vibration ...

JPL

Technologist III

Pasadena, CA · On-site

Bachelor's degree in experimental atomic physics or closely related discipline with a minimum of 6 years of professional experience, or Master's degree in a related discipline with a minimum of 4 ...

Vector Atomic

Laser Scientist

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$163K - $214K/yr

PhD in Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field with a focus on atomic/optical physics, frequency metrology, or integrated photonics. * To comply with the US export control laws, Vector ...

Vector Atomic

Laser Scientist

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$163K - $214K/yr

PhD in Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field with a focus on atomic/optical physics, frequency metrology, or integrated photonics. * To comply with the US export control laws, Vector ...

Vector Atomic

Laser Scientist

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$163K - $214K/yr

PhD in Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field with a focus on atomic/optical physics, frequency metrology, or integrated photonics. * To comply with the US export control laws, Vector ...

Vector Atomic

Staff Scientist - Quantum

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$150K - $180K/yr

PhD in atomic, optical, quantum physics, or 8-12 years of related academic or industry experience * To comply with the US export control laws, Vector Atomic employees must be U.S. citizens (born or ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsAtomic Physics JobsAtomic Physics Jobs in California

Atomic Physics information

See California salary details

$5

$19

$25

How much do atomic physics jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for atomic physics in California is $19.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.36 and $25.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

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. Advanced roles in research or academia may offer higher compensation, especially for those with PhDs and specialized skills in experimental or theoretical physics.

What does an atomic physicist do?

An atomic physicist studies the properties and behavior of atoms and subatomic particles, often conducting experiments using specialized equipment like particle accelerators and lasers. They analyze atomic interactions, develop theoretical models, and contribute to advancements in fields such as quantum mechanics and spectroscopy.

What are popular job titles related to Atomic Physics jobs in California?

For Atomic Physics jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Atomic Physics jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Atomic Physics jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Atomic Physics jobs?

Cities in California with the most Atomic Physics job openings:

Atomic Physics jobs near you
Infographic showing various Atomic Physics job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 22% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,184 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

Quantum Theorist, Atomic Physics Focus

Berkeley, CA

Atom Computing
IT Services • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Atom Computingexternal

$160K - $185K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 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.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
apply for this job

Apply