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Computational Physicist Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Design, refine, and validate physics-based computational models and simulations to identify critical structural weaknesses and viable exploitation vectors. * Research, design, and evaluate innovative ...

Senior Physicist

Reston, VA · On-site

$154 - $278/hr

Design, refine, and validate physics-based computational models and simulations to identify critical structural weaknesses and viable exploitation vectors. * Research, design, and evaluate innovative ...

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Computational Physicist information

See Virginia salary details

$138.8K

$164.5K

$187.5K

How much do computational physicist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for computational physicist in Virginia is $164,491.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $151,500.00 and $177,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a computational physicist?

A computational physicist is a scientist who uses computer simulations, numerical analysis, and algorithms to solve complex physical problems that are difficult or impossible to address analytically. They work in fields like condensed matter physics, astrophysics, and materials science, modeling phenomena such as atomic interactions or galaxy formation. Their work often involves writing code, analyzing large datasets, and collaborating with experimental and theoretical physicists. Computational physicists play a key role in advancing scientific knowledge by providing insights where traditional methods fall short.

What does a computational physicist do?

A computational physicist applies numerical analysis to solve problems or support theories in physics. In this career, you use knowledge from numerous disciplines, including physics, statistics, mathematics, and computer science, to test a theory. You use algorithms and other methodological tools to crunch large datasets using powerful computers, which helps in solving differential equations and other statistical problems. This can include Monte Carlo calculations and eigenvalue problems. Some people consider computational physics a branch of theoretical physics or its own discipline with specific duties and responsibilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a computational physicist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Computational Physicist, you need a strong background in physics, mathematics, and computer science, typically supported by at least a master's or Ph.D. in physics or a related field. Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, C++, and MATLAB, as well as experience with simulation software and high-performance computing systems, is essential. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork skills help you tackle complex scientific challenges and collaborate on interdisciplinary projects. These skills are crucial for developing accurate models, efficiently solving intricate problems, and advancing scientific research through computational methods.

What are some typical challenges computational physicists face when working on collaborative research projects?

Computational physicists often collaborate with experimentalists, engineers, and other researchers, which can present challenges such as bridging communication gaps between disciplines and integrating diverse data formats or methodologies. Coordinating project timelines to ensure that simulations align with experimental milestones is also common. Additionally, managing large datasets and ensuring reproducibility of results across different computing environments can require careful planning and documentation. Effective teamwork and adaptability are essential to overcome these hurdles and drive successful research outcomes.

What is the difference between Computational Physicist vs Data Scientist?

AspectComputational PhysicistData Scientist
Required CredentialsPhysics degree, often PhD, strong math and programming skillsStatistics, computer science, or related degree, often with a master's or PhD
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academia, government agencies, scientific institutionsTech companies, finance, healthcare, consulting firms
Industry UsageScientific research, simulations, modeling physical systemsData analysis, predictive modeling, business insights

While both roles require strong programming and analytical skills, Computational Physicists focus on physical systems and scientific research, whereas Data Scientists analyze data to inform business decisions. The choice depends on your interest in scientific research versus data-driven applications.

What are popular job titles related to Computational Physicist jobs in Virginia?

For Computational Physicist jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Computational Physicist jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Computational Physicist job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Computational Physicist jobs in VA?

For Computational Physicist jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Computational Physicist job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $164,491 per year, or $79.1 per hour.

Physicist and All-Source Analyst, Senior

Charlottesville, VA • On-site


Booz Allen Hamilton
IT Services • 10K+ employees

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 49 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 72 rated business consultants

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students


$61.90 - $141/hr

Other

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

Join a culture of emplowerment and connectivity.

Develop your craft

Learn the skills you need to accelerate your career.

Discover benefits that your life and work.

Innovate with intention

Build mission-ready tech that protects the nation.

Physicist and All-Source Analyst, Senior

The Opportunity:

Support defense analytical requirements with enhanced scientific research, capability or limitation analysis, reverse engineering analysis or characterizations, and facility and vulnerability assessments. Support applied and interdisciplinary fields of physics such as astrophysics, biophysics, directed energy weapon s, and geophysics. Conduct independent research, technical writing, modeling, and oversight or advising of allied engineering disciplines on fiber optics, acoustics, semiconductors, lasers, weapon s development, and testing, and identifythe characteristics of hard and deeply buried targets. Prepare products to describe and document findings and activities.

You Have:

  • Experience conducting all-source analytic production on nuclear programs, including production facilities, stockpiles,logistics, systems employment, security, and vulnerabilities of facilities and stockpiles
  • Experience with all-source analysis production, including analytic tradecraft, ICD 203 and 206, and DIA writing style
  • Knowledge of applying and querying SIGINT, GEOINT, OSINT, and HUMINT data sets and databases
  • Knowledge of nuclear weapon s programs, including nuclear weapon s effects, nuclear fuel cycle, and nuclear infrastructure
  • Ability to independently develop high-quality tailored deliverables, including actionable leads, ICD-compliant written products, network charts, and formal or informal briefings
  • Ability to adjust to changing mission requirements and deliver products withina short timeframe
  • Ability to collaborate with other mission partners on production and take lead briefing at unique events
  • Active TS/SCI clearance; willingness to take a polygraph exam
  • Bachelor’s degree and 8+ years of experience with intelligence, or 12+ years of experience with intelligence in lieu of a degree

Nice If You Have:

  • Experience countering missiles and delivery systems, advanced weapon s, and CBRN E
  • Experience with data analytics and visualization
  • TS/SCI clearance with a polygraph
  • Bachelor’s degree in Nuclear Engineering, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or Chemical Engineering

Clearance:

Applicants selected will be subject to a security investigation and may need to meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information ; TS/SCI clearance is required.

Compensation

At Booz Allen, we celebrate your contributions, provide you with opportunities and choices, and support your total well-being. Our offerings include health, life, disability, financial, and retirement benefits, as well as paid leave, professional development, tuition assistance, work-life programs, and dependent care. Our recognition awards program acknowledges employees for exceptional performance and superior demonstration of our values. Full-time and part-time employees working at least 20 hours a week on a regular basis are eligible to participate in Booz Allen’s benefit programs. Individuals that do not meet the threshold are only eligible for select offerings, not inclusive of health benefits. We encourage you to learn more about our total benefits by visiting the Resource page on our Careers site and reviewing Our Employee Benefits page.

Salary at Booz Allen is determined by various factors, including but not limited to location, the individual’s particular combination of education, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience, as well as contract-specific affordability and organizational requirements. The projected compensation range for this position is $61,900.00 to $141,000.00 (annualized USD). The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position and is just one component of Booz Allen’s total compensation package for employees. This posting will close within 90 days from the Posting Date.

Identity Statement

As part of the hiring process, we will ask you to complete an identity verification process that leverages advanced biometrics and artificial intelligence to ensure authenticity and protect against identity fraud. You are expected to be on camera during interviews and assessments. We reserve the right to take your picture to verify your identity and prevent fraud.

Candidate AI Usage Policy

AI is a part of our daily work at Booz Allen, and we are committed to the responsible and ethical use of AI tools. However, we want to ensure a fair candidate process based on your own skills and knowledge. As part of this commitment, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) or other tools to assist with responses during interviews (whether in-person or virtual) is prohibited unless permission is explicitly provided.

Work Model
Our people-first culture prioritizes the benefits of collaboration, whether it occurs in person or virtually. To support engagement and effective communication, employees working virtually are generally expected to have their cameras on during meetings.

  • Remote: If this position is listed as remote, there may still be occasions when you are required to work in person at a Booz Allen or customer facility.

  • Hybrid: If this position is listed as hybrid, you will be expected to work from a Booz Allen facility frequently, in alignment with leadership expectations and the needs of the role. You may also be required to work from or visit a customer facility.

  • Onsite: If this position is listed as onsite, work will primarily be performed at a Booz Allen office or customer facility, where employees will collaborate directly with colleagues and customers as required by the role.

Commitment to Non-Discrimination

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability, status as a protected veteran or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, local, or international law.

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Booz Allen Hamilton logo

About Booz Allen Hamilton

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Booz Allen Hamilton is a leading provider of management and technology consulting services to the US government in defense, intelligence, and civil markets. Headquartered in McLean, Virginia, the firm also serves major corporations, institutions, and not-for-profit organizations. Founded in 1914 by Edwin G. Booz, the company has a long-standing tradition of helping clients achieve success by delivering a wide range of consulting services that include strategic planning, human capital and learning, communication, systems development, and others. The company's mission is to empower people to change the world, and it has a reputation for maintaining the highest standards of integrity and-excellence.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

McLean, VA, US

Year founded

1914


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