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Computational Physicist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

How you will contribute You will bring computational physics modelling & simulation capabilities to Mondelez R&D's highest priority areas, developing solutions to move R&D work away from large ...

Divertor Plasma Physicist

Kearny, NJ ยท On-site

$120K - $170K/yr

PhD in Plasma Physics, Computational Physics, Applied Physics, or a related field, or bachelor's degree in a relevant field with 5+ years of experience or master's degree in relevant field with 2+ ...

Divertor Plasma Physicist

Kearny, NJ ยท On-site

$120K - $170K/yr

PhD in Plasma Physics, Computational Physics, Applied Physics, or a related field, or bachelor's degree in a relevant field with 5+ years of experience or master's degree in relevant field with 2+ ...

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Computational Physicist information

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 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 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 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 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 cities are hiring for Computational Physicist jobs? Cities with the most Computational Physicist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Computational Physicist jobs? The most popular types of Computational Physicist jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Computational Physicist jobs? The top employers for Computational Physicist jobs are:
What states have the most Computational Physicist jobs? States with the most job openings for Computational Physicist jobs include:
What are popular job titles related to Computational Physicist jobs? For Computational Physicist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Computational Physicist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 50% In-person, and 50% Remote job distribution.

Computational Physicist - Fluid/Thermal Modeling, - Doctorate Degree (Santa Clara, CA) (Open)

Amat

Santa Clara, CA โ€ข On-site, Remote

$161K - $221K/yr

Full-time

This job post hasย expired 1 day ago.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Who We Are

Applied Materials is a global leader in materials engineering solutions used to produce virtually every new chip and advanced display in the world. We design, build and service cutting-edge equipment that helps our customers manufacture display and semiconductor chips - the brains of devices we use every day. As the foundation of the global electronics industry, Applied enables the exciting technologies that literally connect our world - like AI and IoT. If you want to push the boundaries of materials science and engineering to create next generation technology, join us to deliver material innovation that changes the world.

What We Offer

Salary:

$161,000.00 - $221,000.00

Location:

Santa Clara,CA

You'll benefit from a supportive work culture that encourages you to learn, develop, and grow your career as you take on challenges and drive innovative solutions for our customers. We empower our team to push the boundaries of what is possible-while learning every day in a supportive leading global company. Visit our Careers website to learn more.

At Applied Materials, we care about the health and wellbeing of our employees. We're committed to providing programs and support that encourage personal and professional growth and care for you at work, at home, or wherever you may go. Learn more about our benefits.

Applied Materials is the leader in materials engineering solutions to produce virtually every new chip and advanced display in the world. Our expertise in modifying materials at atomic levels and on an industrial scale enables customers to transform possibilities into reality. Our innovations make possible the technology shaping the future. To achieve this, we employ some of the best, brightest, and most talented people in the world who work together as part of a winning team.

Applied Materials is seeking a highly skilled engineer to join its computational modeling team focused on fluid and thermal physics simulations. In this role, you will develop and implement advanced computational models using physicsbased simulation tools and AI/ML techniques. You will design fluid and thermal models, automate simulation workflows, analyze large data sets, and contribute to the development and optimization of Ace+ software. This position requires close collaboration with crossfunctional engineering teams to solve complex problems, improve product designs, and support nextgeneration chamber and process technology development.

Qualifications:

  • Advanced degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) in Mechanical, Electrical, Aerospace, Chemical Engineering, or a related field with specialization in fluid/thermal physics.
  • Proven ability to apply fluid/thermal physics and chemical kinetics principles to solve challenging problems.
  • Experience automating simulation workflows using Python, MATLAB, or similar scripting tools for data processing and large-scale analysis.
  • Proficient in at least one programming language (Python, MATLAB, C, C++, or Fortran).
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills for effective collaboration across engineering teams.

Desirable Qualifications

  • Hands-on experience applying machine learning techniques to enhance physics-based simulations, including: surrogate models. reduced-order models, uncertainty quantification
  • Familiarity with open-source machine learning libraries and frameworks

Additional Information

Time Type:

Full time

Employee Type:

Assignee / Regular

Travel:

Yes, 10% of the Time

Relocation Eligible:

Yes

The salary offered to a selected candidate will be based on multiple factors including location, hire grade, job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and with consideration of internal equity of our current team members. In addition to a comprehensive benefits package, candidates may be eligible for other forms of compensation such as participation in a bonus and a stock award program, as applicable.

For all sales roles, the posted salary range is the Target Total Cash (TTC) range for the role, which is the sum of base salary and target bonus amount at 100% goal achievement.

Applied Materials is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran or military status, or any other basis prohibited by law.

In addition, Applied endeavors to make our careers site accessible to all users. If you would like to contact us regarding accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process, please contact us via e-mail at Accommodations_Program@amat.com, or by calling our HR Direct Help Line at 877-612-7547, option 1, and following the prompts to speak to an HR Advisor. This contact is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.