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Atomic Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Vector Atomic

Staff Scientist - Quantum

Pleasanton, CA

$150K - $180K/yr

Vector Atomic, an IonQ company, is building quantum technology to transform navigation, timing, geophysical exploration, and telecommunications. Our team of engineers, scientists, software developers ...

Vector Atomic

Senior Scientist - Quantum

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$130K - $155K/yr

Vector Atomic, an IonQ company, is building quantum technology to transform navigation, timing, geophysical exploration, and telecommunications. Our team of engineers, scientists, software developers ...

Vector Atomic

Staff Scientist - Quantum

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$150K - $180K/yr

Vector Atomic, an IonQ company, is building quantum technology to transform navigation, timing, geophysical exploration, and telecommunications. Our team of engineers, scientists, software developers ...

Vector Atomic

Staff Scientist - Quantum

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$150K - $180K/yr

Vector Atomic, an IonQ company, is building quantum technology to transform navigation, timing, geophysical exploration, and telecommunications. Our team of engineers, scientists, software developers ...

Vector Atomic

Senior Scientist - Quantum

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$130K - $155K/yr

Vector Atomic, an IonQ company, is building quantum technology to transform navigation, timing, geophysical exploration, and telecommunications. Our team of engineers, scientists, software developers ...

Vector Atomic

Senior Scientist - Quantum

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$130K - $155K/yr

Vector Atomic, an IonQ company, is building quantum technology to transform navigation, timing, geophysical exploration, and telecommunications. Our team of engineers, scientists, software developers ...

Vector Atomic

Laser Scientist

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$163K - $214K/yr

Vector Atomic, an IonQ company, is building quantum technology to transform navigation, timing, geophysical exploration, and telecommunications. Our team of engineers, scientists, software developers ...

Vector Atomic

Laser Scientist

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$163K - $214K/yr

Vector Atomic, an IonQ company, is building quantum technology to transform navigation, timing, geophysical exploration, and telecommunications. Our team of engineers, scientists, software developers ...

Vector Atomic

Laser Scientist

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$163K - $214K/yr

Vector Atomic, an IonQ company, is building quantum technology to transform navigation, timing, geophysical exploration, and telecommunications. Our team of engineers, scientists, software developers ...

Vector Atomic

Engineer - R&D

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$110K - $135K/yr

Vector Atomic, an IonQ company, is building quantum technology to transform navigation, timing, geophysical exploration, and telecommunications. Our team of engineers, scientists, software developers ...

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All JobsAtomic JobsAtomic Jobs in California

Atomic information

See California salary details

$27.6K

$63.8K

$99.2K

How much do atomic jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for atomic in California is $63,774.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,300.00 and $70,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Atomic vs Chemist?

AspectAtomic
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in physics, chemistry, or related fields
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, industrial settings
Industry UsageResearch, development, manufacturing sectors
Common Search IntentUnderstanding roles in scientific research or industry

While both Atomic and Chemist roles involve scientific expertise, an Atomic generally focuses on atomic or nuclear science, often requiring specialized physics credentials, whereas a Chemist emphasizes chemical processes and compounds. The roles overlap in laboratory work and research environments, but their specific focus areas differ significantly.

What is an atomic job?

Atomic jobs are roles or tasks that are self-contained, indivisible, and can be completed independently without relying on other tasks. In computing or workflow automation, 'atomic' refers to operations that are completed entirely or not at all, ensuring consistency and reliability. In the context of job structuring, atomic jobs help organizations break down complex projects into manageable, discrete tasks that can be tracked, assigned, and executed more efficiently. This approach improves workflow clarity and reduces errors caused by dependencies between tasks.

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, mathematics, and quantum mechanics, typically supported by a Ph.D. in physics or a related field. Familiarity with advanced laboratory equipment, spectroscopy tools, and computational modeling software is essential. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for conveying complex ideas and collaborating on research teams. These competencies enable precise experimentation, innovative research, and successful dissemination of scientific findings in the field of atomic physics.

What are some unique challenges faced by professionals working in the atomic energy sector?

Professionals working in the atomic energy sector often face unique challenges such as adhering to strict safety protocols, staying current with evolving regulatory requirements, and managing complex technical systems. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—including engineers, safety inspectors, and regulatory agencies—is essential to ensure smooth operations and compliance. Additionally, due to the sensitive nature of atomic energy, clear communication and continuous training are crucial to maintaining safety and efficiency in daily operations.
What are popular job titles related to Atomic jobs in California? For Atomic jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Atomic jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Atomic jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Atomic jobs? Cities in California with the most Atomic job openings:
Atomic jobs near you
Infographic showing various Atomic job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 32% Full Time, 64% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 37% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 62% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,774 per year, or $30.7 per hour.

Quantum Theorist, Atomic Physics Focus

Atom Computing

Berkeley, CA • On-site

$160K - $185K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 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.
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