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Computational Physics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Voltai, Inc

Computational Scientist

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

PhD in computational physics, applied mathematics, computational engineering, or a closely related field * Deep expertise in numerical PDE methods: FEM, FVM, or BEM - weak formulations, quadrature ...

Voltai

Computational Scientist

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

PhD in computational physics, applied mathematics, computational engineering, or a closely related field * Deep expertise in numerical PDE methods: FEM, FVM, or BEM -- weak formulations, quadrature ...

Toyon

Computational Multiphysics Engineer

Goleta, CA · On-site

$125K - $195K/yr

While a background in electromagnetics and antenna design is ideal, we also welcome candidates with strong expertise in computational physics, fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, or materials science ...

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How much do computational physics jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for computational physics in the United States is $168,844.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $155,500.00 and $182,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 solid background in physics, advanced mathematics, and computer science, typically supported by a relevant degree (such as a PhD or MSc). Proficiency in programming languages like Python, C++, or Fortran, as well as experience with simulation software and high-performance computing, is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate and present complex findings clearly. These skills enable accurate modeling, efficient data analysis, and successful teamwork on complex scientific projects.

What are some common challenges faced by computational physicists when working on interdisciplinary projects?

Computational physicists often collaborate with researchers from fields like engineering, chemistry, or biology, which can introduce challenges related to differing terminologies, methodologies, and priorities. Adapting complex physics models to suit the needs and constraints of other disciplines may require significant adjustments and clear communication. Additionally, integrating diverse data types and software tools can be technically demanding, but overcoming these challenges helps foster innovation and leads to broader scientific impact.

What is computational physics?

Computational physics is a branch of physics that uses computational methods and algorithms to solve complex physical problems that are difficult or impossible to address analytically. It combines physics, computer science, and applied mathematics to simulate physical systems, analyze data, and predict the behavior of matter and energy. Computational physicists often develop and use software to model phenomena such as quantum mechanics, fluid dynamics, material properties, and astrophysics. This field is essential for advancing scientific research in areas where experiments are too costly, dangerous, or impractical.

What is the difference between Computational Physics vs Data Scientist?

AspectComputational PhysicsData Scientist
Required CredentialsPhysics degree, computational skills, programmingStatistics, programming, data analysis
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academia, scientific institutionsTech companies, finance, healthcare
Industry UsageScientific research, simulations, modelingBusiness insights, predictive analytics
Common Search/ComparisonComputational Physics vs Data Scientist

Computational Physics focuses on applying computational methods to solve physical problems, often in research or academia. Data Scientists analyze large datasets to extract insights across various industries. While both roles require programming skills, their applications and work environments differ significantly.

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What cities are hiring for Computational Physics jobs? Cities with the most Computational Physics job openings:
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What job categories do people searching Computational Physics jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Computational Physics jobs are:
Computational Physics jobs near you
Infographic showing various Computational Physics job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $168,844 per year, or $81.2 per hour.

Computational Plasma Physicist - Transport Modeling

Thea Energy

Kearny, NJ

$100K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

About Thea Energy:  
 
Thea Energy is leveraging recent breakthroughs in stellarator physics and engineering to create a faster and simpler approach to commercializing fusion energy. The company is reinventing the stellarator using computer-controlled arrays of planar coils thereby replacing the intricate, complex modular magnets required in all other stellarator architectures. Thea Energy is on a mission to create a limitless source of zero emission energy for a sustainable future.  
 
Position Overview:

As a transport modeling physicist at Thea Energy, you will be an architect of our plasma performance projections. You will apply advanced kinetic and fluid models to characterize heat, particle, and momentum transport in highly-optimized stellarator geometries. Your objective is to transform fundamental physics into actionable constraints, guiding our equilibrium+coil optimization and operational scenarios to ensure the success of our next generation fusion devices.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Perform/analyze integrated modeling simulations to predict performance and develop scenarios for Thea Energy’s Eos and Helios stellarators.
  • Utilize gyrokinetic, fluid, and/or reduced transport solvers to provide projections of confinement, heat, particle, and momentum transport.
  • Maintain and extend existing gyrokinetic and transport frameworks
  • Build reproducible simulation pipelines and data analysis tools to streamline the design-to-validation loop.
  • Use insights from turbulence and transport analysis to guide equilibrium and coil optimization.
  • Collaborate with the physics and engineering team to develop scenarios and interpret results from current hardware.
Required Experience & Skillsets:

Qualifications:

  • PhD in Plasma Physics, Computational Physics, Applied Mathematics, or a related field. (Candidates with a Master’s degree and 3+ years of direct experience in transport/turbulence modeling will be considered).
  • Strong understanding of gyrokinetic theory and transport processes
  • Expertise in developing scientific simulation codes using Python, C++, or Fortran.
  • Proven experience working in Linux-based HPC environments with a focus on code scalability and performance.

Preferred Skills:

  • Direct experience running core (e.g. GENE, stella, CGYRO, GX) and/or edge (GENE-X, XGC, Gkeyll) gyrokinetic codes.
  • Experience with stellarator-specific equilibrium and stability codes such as VMEC, STELLOPT, DESC, and/or TERPSICHORE.
  • Familiarity with advanced numerical methods, GPU programming, and/or developing surrogate/reduced models.
  • A track record of peer-reviewed publications and the ability to present complex physics to multi-disciplinary engineering teams.

Personal Attributes:

  • Ability to manage complex projects from theory to implementation with minimal supervision.
  • A passion for fusion energy and a desire to work in a fast-paced, collaborative startup environment.
  • Rigorous approach to code verification and physics validation.
Company Benefits:
  • Salary range $100,000 - $140,000
  • Comprehensive health benefits (e.g. medical/dental/vision)
  • Employee equity stock options
  • 20 days PTO
It’s not necessary to meet all of the skillsets outlined above. Please feel free to send us a note and tell us why you would still be a great fit for this role or Thea Energy.  
  
Diversity and Inclusion:  
Thea Energy is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a company of diverse backgrounds. By creating a diverse environment, we will bring new ideas and approaches to solving some of the world’s hardest (and most important) problems. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, family or marital status, age, disability, veteran’s status, or other characteristic protected by applicable laws and regulations.  
 

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. 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.

About Thea Energy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Clean energy semiconductors manufacturing

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Princeton, NJ, US

Year founded

2022

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