1

Atomic Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

Atomic Wings is on the hunt for enthusiastic Kitchen Team Members to join our dynamic crew! We are open to both FULL- and PART-TIME applicants eager to contribute to our locations' success. As a ...

Atomic Transport offers a predictable schedule with steady work. We provide competitive wages with benefits and vacation to all full-time drivers. Stop worrying about driving jobs that lack ...

DESCRIPTION Join our vibrant team at Atomic Wings! We're actively seeking enthusiastic Crew Members for both FULL- and PART-TIME roles at our Greenfield Indiana location. Dive into a dynamic work ...

DESCRIPTION Atomic Wings is on the hunt for enthusiastic Kitchen Team Members to join our dynamic crew! We are open to both FULL- and PART-TIME applicants eager to contribute to our locations ...

Atomic Transport offers a predictable schedule with steady work. We provide competitive wages with benefits and vacation to all full-time drivers. Stop worrying about driving jobs that lack ...

Showing results 21-40

Atomic information

See salary details

$28K

$64.6K

$100.5K

How much do atomic jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for atomic in the United States is $64,620.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,000.00 and $71,000.00 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.
More about Atomic jobs
What cities are hiring for Atomic jobs? Cities with the most Atomic job openings:
What states have the most Atomic jobs? States with the most job openings for Atomic jobs include:
Infographic showing various Atomic job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 32% Full Time, 66% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 37% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 62% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,620 per year, or $31.1 per hour.

Senior Scientist - Quantum

Vector Atomic

Pleasanton, CA • On-site

$130K - $155K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

Vector Atomic, an IonQ company, is building quantum technology to transform navigation, timing, geophysical exploration, and telecommunications. Our team of engineers, scientists, software developers, and operations professionals works together to solve complex challenges and turn bold ideas into real-world solutions. We value collaboration, curiosity, and diverse perspectives, and we give every team member the opportunity to make an immediate impact while growing their skills. If you're excited to work on breakthrough technology in a fast-paced, hands-on environment, we'd love to hear from you.

We're hiring driven Atomic, Molecular, and Optical (AMO) Physicists to play a key role in building ultraprecise quantum devices for autonomous navigation, high-bandwidth satellite communications, and geophysical exploration. This hands-on position offers the opportunity to contribute to all stages of development, from concept to deployment. We're looking for strong individuals who thrive on ownership and collaboration within our dynamic, team-oriented environment. If you're excited about working on groundbreaking technologies, we want to hear from you!

Requirements

What You'll Do:

  • Prototype and design optical, mechanical, and electrical subsystems
  • Sensor integration, bring-up, and optimization; data analysis
  • Analyze and simulate of atomic sensor performance and environmental sensitivities
  • Deploy and demonstrate prototype sensors into real-world environments

What We're Looking For:

  • PhD in atomic, optical, quantum physics, or 5-8 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 naturalized), lawful U.S. permanent residents (green card holders), and certain categories of refugees, and asylees.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with coworkers and collaborators, both written and verbal.

Hands-on expertise with several of the following:

  • Atomic clocks and inertial sensors
  • Atomic ovens, beams, and/or vapor cells
  • Laser cooling and trapping
  • Precision spectroscopy
  • Ultra-high vacuum (UHV) systems
  • Narrow linewidth lasers and laser frequency stabilization
  • Optics, fiber optics, electro/acousto-optics, detectors
  • Analog, digital, and RF electronics
  • Control systems and instrumentation
  • Mechanical design

Benefits

Vector Atomic values teamwork, open and honest discourse, and work-life balance. We offer competitive compensation and benefits including:

  • Platinum-level family health coverage (medical, dental, vision)
  • Health and dependent care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
  • Employer 401(k) contributions
  • 20 days of paid time off / 11 paid holidays
  • Paid parental leave
  • Fully stocked kitchen

Pay Range
The approximate base salary range for this position is $130,000 to $155,000 per year. The total compensation package includes base, bonus, equity and benefits. It's atypical to be hired at the top end of this range for the role, as actual pay is based on several factors, including job-related knowledge, skills, and experience level.

Vector Atomic is an equal opportunity employer and we welcome applications from all backgrounds regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, disability, or any other classification protected by law.

Vector Atomic does not accept unsolicited resumes from individual recruiters or third-party recruiting agencies in response to job postings. No fee will be paid to third parties who submit unsolicited candidates directly to our hiring managers or HR team.