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Chemical Physicist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$74K/yr

... physics, engineering, radiological science, chemistry, physics, biology, mathematics, and/or ... chemical, biological, radiological effects on response operations; collaborating projects and ...

$74K/yr

... physics, engineering, radiological science, chemistry, physics, biology, mathematics, and/or ... chemical, biological, radiological effects on response operations; collaborating projects and ...

$74K/yr

... physics, engineering, radiological science, chemistry, physics, biology, mathematics, and/or ... chemical, biological, radiological effects on response operations; collaborating projects and ...

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Chemical Physicist information

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$39.5K

$94.8K

$226.5K

How much do chemical physicist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for chemical physicist in the United States is $94,805.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,000.00 and $112,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is a physicist a high paying job?

A physicist, including those specializing as chemical physicists, often earns a competitive salary, especially with advanced degrees and experience. Salaries vary by industry, location, and level of expertise, but physics-related roles are generally considered well-paying compared to many other scientific fields.

What is a Chemical Physicist job?

A Chemical Physicist studies the physical properties of chemical systems, exploring how matter behaves at the atomic and molecular levels. They apply principles from physics and chemistry to analyze reactions, molecular structure, and energy transfer. Their work is essential in fields like materials science, nanotechnology, and spectroscopy. Chemical Physicists use mathematical models, computational simulations, and experimental techniques to advance scientific understanding and develop new technologies.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Chemical Physicist?

A Chemical Physicist's daily responsibilities often include designing and conducting experiments, analyzing data using specialized software, and collaborating on research projects with multidisciplinary teams. You'll also spend time reviewing scientific literature, writing research papers or technical reports, and presenting findings to colleagues or stakeholders. Many roles involve a balance between hands-on laboratory work and theoretical modeling or simulation. Engaging in regular team meetings and staying updated on advancements in both chemistry and physics is also common. This blend of activities keeps the work dynamic and promotes continuous learning.

How much do chemical physicists make?

Chemical physicists typically earn a median annual salary of around $80,000 to $120,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Advanced roles or those in research and development may offer higher compensation, especially with specialized skills in spectroscopy, quantum mechanics, or computational modeling.

What can I do with a Chemical Physics degree?

A Chemical Physicist can work in research and development, applying principles of chemistry and physics to develop new materials, processes, or technologies. They often work in laboratories, industries such as pharmaceuticals, energy, or materials science, and may use tools like spectroscopy and computational modeling. The degree provides a strong foundation for roles requiring analytical skills, problem-solving, and knowledge of physical and chemical properties.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Chemical Physicist position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Chemical Physicist, you need a strong background in chemistry, physics, mathematics, and often a Ph.D. in a related discipline. Familiarity with spectroscopic analysis tools, computational modeling software, and laboratory instrumentation is commonly required, along with experience in scientific research and data analysis. Strong analytical thinking, teamwork, and written and verbal communication skills help Chemical Physicists effectively solve complex problems and collaborate across disciplines. These skills enable accurate research, innovative discoveries, and effective sharing of results in both academic and industry settings.

What is the highest paid job in chemistry?

The highest paid jobs in chemistry often include roles such as chemical research directors, pharmaceutical executives, or senior scientists in industries like oil and gas or biotechnology. These positions typically require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and leadership skills, with salaries reaching into the high six or seven figures annually. Specialized expertise in areas like process engineering, patent law, or executive management can also command top salaries in the field.
More about Chemical Physicist jobs
What cities are hiring for Chemical Physicist jobs? Cities with the most Chemical Physicist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Chemical Physicist jobs? The most popular types of Chemical Physicist jobs are:
What states have the most Chemical Physicist jobs? States with the most job openings for Chemical Physicist jobs include:
Infographic showing various Chemical Physicist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,805 per year, or $45.6 per hour.

U.S. Department Of Defense rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 529 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

25th of 46 rated military and defense


Job description

Click on "Learn more about this agency" button below for IMPORTANT additional information.
This is a Direct Hire Solicitation. This public notice is to gather applications that may or may not result in a referral or selection.Qualifications:In order to qualify, you must meet the specialized experience requirements described in the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards for General Schedule Positions, Group Coverage Qualification Standard for Professional and Scientific Positions.
BASIC REQUIREMENT OR INDIVIDUAL OCCUPATIONAL REQUIREMENT:
1. Degree: natural science or engineering that included at least 30 semester hours in health physics, engineering, radiological science, chemistry, physics, biology, mathematics, and/or calculus.
OR
2. Combination of education and experience --
courses as shown in A above, plus appropriate experience or other education; or certification as a health physicist by the American Board of Health Physics, plus appropriate experience and other education that provided an understanding of sciences applicable to health physics comparable to that described in paragraph A.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: In addition to meeting the basic requirement above, to qualify for this position you must also meet the qualification requirements listed below.
GS-11: Applicants must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience at the next lower grade GS-09, or equivalent in other pay systems. Examples of specialized experience includes performing environmental physical science, environmental engineering, or health physics duties; applying standard practices of related disciples as they relate to health physics or engineering functions.
GS-12: Applicants must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience at the next lower grade GS-11, or equivalent in other pay systems. Examples of specialized experience includes conducting reviews and ensures laboratory radiochemistry procedures are compliant with regulations and license requirements; developing and implementing laboratory training programs and conduct classes.
GS-13: Applicants must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience at the next lower grade GS-12, or equivalent in other pay systems. Examples of specialized experience includes performing scientific and technical expert in the areas of chemical, biological, radiological effects on response operations; collaborating projects and coordinating work with others; attending meetings and conferences and presenting technical papers.
GS-14: Applicants must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience at the next lower grade GS-13, or equivalent in other pay systems. Examples of specialized experience includes providing technical health physics expertise in all areas; supervising the licensing actions; reviewing and revising the existing policy guidance directives to ensure compliance applicable to federal radiation related regulations.
GS-15:Applicants must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience at the next lower grade GS-14, or equivalent in other pay systems. Examples of specialized experience includes developing fundamental approaches and applying broad health physicist expertise to identify adverse health impacts; providing professional and expert technical direction and assessment in all areas of health physics.
To view qualifying educational requirements and/or combination of education and experience, click on the following link: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/1300/health-physics-series-1306/
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs): Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the following areas:
  1. Knowledge of health physics principles, practices, techniques and procedures to effectively perform project development, execution, training and advisory services. Knowledge of applicable Federal, State, and local laws, regulations, and other guidance to make decisions and recommendations concerning assigned and/or integration principles and practices; and health, safety, and security practices.
  2. Skill to integrate in an interdisciplinary team of professionals to include public health specialists, physical scientists, biological scientists, environmental engineers, regulators, and other governmental officials and community groups. Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, clearly, concisely, and with technical accuracy. Communicate with a technical and lay community which may be either supportive or antagonistic.
  3. Knowledge and skill required to resolve environmental problems that require the investigation of radiation contamination or other questionable conditions. Ability to assist in identifying problems and provide necessary technical support to resolve issues. Must be capable of assisting with economic analysis to determine the feasibility of acquisitions and determine the most economical means of satisfying organizational and regulatory requirements.
  4. Knowledge and skill to accomplish environmental sampling for analysis and maintain contact with laboratory that is providing analytical services. Ability to interpret analytical results to determine proper disposal method.
  5. Ability to track radiation hazards, controls and evaluations in recognized Occupational and Environmental Health database.
PART-TIME OR UNPAID EXPERIENCE: Credit will be given for appropriate unpaid and or part-time work. You must clearly identify the duties and responsibilities in each position held and the total number of hours per week.
VOLUNTEER WORK EXPERIENCE: Refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service Programs (i.e., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student and social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge and skills that can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.Education:IF USING EDUCATION TO QUALIFY: If position has a positive degree requirement or education forms the basis for qualifications, you MUST submit transcriptswith the application. Official transcripts are not required at the time of application; however, if position has a positive degree requirement, qualifying based on education alone or in combination with experience; transcripts must be verified prior to appointment. An accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education must accredit education. Click here to check accreditation.
FOREIGN EDUCATION: Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the requirements. You must show proof the education credentials have been deemed to be at least equivalent to that gained in conventional U.S. education program. It is your responsibility to provide such evidence when applying.Employment Type: OTHER

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