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Atomic Physics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We are looking for experimental scientists with hands-on experience building and operating complex atomic physics systems, taking and analyzing datasets, and collaboration across disciplines. The ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Atomic Physicist

Princeton, NJ · On-site

$180K - $250K/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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Quantum Physicist

Chicago, IL · 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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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

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Atomic Physics information

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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:
What states have the most Atomic Physics jobs? States with the most job openings for Atomic Physics jobs include:
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 computation and atomic/molecular physics postdoc

Quantum computation and atomic/molecular physics postdoc

Los Alamos National Laboratory

Los Alamos, NM • On-site

$44K - $60K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago


Los Alamos National Laboratory rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

8th of 105 rated laboratories


Job description

Description
Job Title Quantum computation and atomic/molecular physics postdoc
Location Los Alamos, NM, US
Organization Name T-4 / Quantum and Condensed Matter Physics
Minimum Salary
Maximum Salary
What You Will Do
The Group of Quantum and Condensed Matter Physics in the Theoretical Division of Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is seeking a strong postdoc candidate to work at the intersection of quantum computation and theoretical atomic physics. The successful candidate will also be part of LANL's Center for Nonlinear Studies and contribute to a project involving collaboration between quantum computer scientists, atomic physicists, and applications experts at LANL. Leveraging techniques from quantum algorithms and knowledge of challenges in atomic physics, the postdoc will be expected to contribute to a research pipeline that spans detailed studies of quantum computing and quantum information all the way to atomic physics applications. Beyond technical contributions, maintaining a broad view of the pipeline is desirable, with the aim of developing and extending cross-disciplinary quantum computation research at LANL.
What You Need
Minimum Job Requirements:

  • Strong background in quantum computation and numerical simulations of atomic and molecular physics
  • Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research
  • Ability and willingness to work with interdisciplinary team
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Education/Experience : Candidates must have a Ph.D. in mathematics, computer science, physics, or chemistry (completed within the last 5 years or soon to be completed). The candidate will have completed all Ph.D. requirements by the commencement of the appointment.
Desired Qualifications:
  • Experience using information processing arguments to analyze quantum algorithms
  • Background in quantum resource estimation
  • Ability to use Mathematica, Python, or other scientific computing language

Work Environment:
Work Location : The work location for this position is onsite and located in Los Alamos, NM. All work locations are at the discretion of management.
Note to Applicants:
The review of applicants will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.
Questions can be sent to Tyler Volkoff at volkoff@lanl.gov or Yigit Subasi at ysubasi@lanl.gov
Candidates may be considered for a Director's Postdoc Fellowship, and outstanding candidates may be considered for the prestigious Darleane Christian Hoffman, J. Robert Oppenheimer, or Frederick Reines Distinguished Postdoc Fellowships.
For more information about the Postdoc Program, go to
https://www.lanl.gov/careers/career-options/postdoctoral-research/index.php
Due to federal restrictions contained in the current National Defense Authorization Act, citizens of the People's Republic of China-including the special administrative regions of Hong Kong and Macau-as well as citizens of the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (North Korea), and the Russian Federation, who are not Lawful Permanent Residents ("green card" holders) are prohibited from accessing facilities that support the mission, functions, and operations of national security laboratories and nuclear weapons production facilities, which includes Los Alamos National Laboratory.
Where You Will Work
Located in beautiful northern New Mexico, Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is a multidisciplinary research institution engaged in strategic science on behalf of national security. Our generous benefits package includes
  • PPO or High Deductible medical insurance with the same large nationwide network
  • Dental and vision insurance
  • Free basic life and disability insurance
  • Paid childbirth and parental leave
  • Award-winning 401(k) (6% matching plus 3.5% annually)
  • Learning opportunities and tuition assistance
  • Flexible schedules and time off (PTO and holidays)
  • Onsite gyms and wellness programs
  • Extensive relocation packages (outside a 50 mile radius)

Additional Details
Directive 206.2 - Employment with Triad requires a favorable decision by NNSA indicating employee is suitable under NNSA Supplemental Directive 206.2 . Please note that this requirement applies only to citizens of the United States. Foreign nationals are subject to a similar requirement under DOE Order 142.3A.
No Clearance: Position does not require a security clearance. Selected candidates will be subject to drug testing and other pre-employment background checks.
New-Employment Drug Test: The Laboratory requires successful applicants to complete a new-employment drug test and maintains a substance abuse policy that includes random drug testing. Although New Mexico and other states have legalized the use of marijuana, use and possession of marijuana remain illegal under federal law. A positive drug test for marijuana will result in termination of employment, even if the use was pre-offer.
Internal Applicants: Regular appointment employees who have served the required period of continuous service in their current position are eligible to apply for posted jobs throughout the Laboratory. If an employee has not served the required period of continuous service, they may only apply for Laboratory jobs with the documented approval of their Division Leader. Please refer to Policy Policy P701 for applicant eligibility requirements.
Equal Opportunity: Los Alamos National Laboratory is an equal opportunity employer. All employment practices are based on qualification and merit, without regard to protected categories such as race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status or spousal affiliation, physical or mental disability, medical conditions, pregnancy, status as a protected veteran, genetic information, or citizenship within the limits imposed by federal, state, and local laws and regulations. The Laboratory is also committed to making our workplace accessible to individuals with disabilities and will provide reasonable accommodations, upon request, for individuals to participate in the application and hiring process. To request such an accommodation, please send an email to applyhelp@lanl.gov or call (505)-664-6947.
Employment Status
Appointment Type Postdoc
Postdoc

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