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Computational Plasma Physicist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Plasma-Materials Scientist

Kearny, NJ · On-site

$100K - $160K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

Utilize computational and simulation tools to perform plasma-surface interaction simulations, thermal analysis, and contribute to multi-physics modeling efforts. Required Experience & Skillsets:

Plasma-Materials Scientist

Kearny, NJ · On-site

$100K - $160K/yr

Utilize computational and simulation tools to perform plasma-surface interaction simulations, thermal analysis, and contribute to multi-physics modeling efforts. Required Experience & Skillsets:

Computational Scientist

Madison, WI

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

PhD in Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, Plasma Physics, or a related field + minimum of 3 years' experience in applied research. * Expert in developing state of the art numerical tools (for ...

They are seeking a Principal Plasma Data Scientist to develop and validate machine learning ... Required : • PhD in Physics, Engineering, Applied Math, Computational Science, Machine Learning ...

Computational Scientist

Madison, WI

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

PhD in Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, Plasma Physics, or a related field + minimum of 3 years' experience in applied research. * Expert in developing state of the art numerical tools (for ...

Computational Scientist

Madison, WI · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

PhD in Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, Plasma Physics, or a related field + minimum of 3 years' experience in applied research. * Expert in developing state of the art numerical tools (for ...

Type One Energy is seeking a Scientist with experience in fusion plasma diagnostics to join its ... modern computational physics and high-field superconducting magnets to develop its optimized ...

Process Engineer III

Chaska, MN · On-site

$78K - $110K/yr

This role requires deep expertise in plasma physics, plasma-material interactions, plasma source design, and process development. The engineer will leverage both computational modeling and ...

Process Engineer III

Chaska, MN · On-site

$78K - $110K/yr

This role requires deep expertise in plasma physics, plasma-material interactions, plasma source design, and process development. The engineer will leverage both computational modeling and ...

Sr Scientist, Plasma Control

Irvine, CA · On-site

$140K - $160K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This role bridges fusion energy science and plasma physics with advanced non-linear control ... and computational AI/ML methods is a must. * Work with leadership of Plasma Control Team ...

Showing results 41-60

Computational Plasma Physicist information

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$168.8K

$192.5K

How much do computational plasma physicist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for computational plasma physicist 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 main collaborative aspects of working as a computational plasma physicist in a research team?

As a Computational Plasma Physicist, you will often collaborate closely with experimental physicists, engineers, and software developers to develop and validate plasma simulation models. Teamwork is essential, as insights from simulations are frequently integrated with experimental data to advance understanding or inform the design of new experiments. Regular meetings, code sharing, and interdisciplinary problem-solving are common, fostering a collaborative environment where communication and adaptability are highly valued. This structure also provides opportunities to learn from experts in adjacent fields and to contribute to high-impact research projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a computational plasma physicist?

To thrive as a Computational Plasma Physicist, you need a strong background in physics, mathematics, and computational modeling, typically supported by a PhD in physics or a related field. Expertise with programming languages (such as Python, C++, or Fortran), high-performance computing environments, and simulation software like Particle-In-Cell (PIC) codes is essential. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help in interpreting complex data and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams. These skills are vital for developing accurate models, advancing plasma research, and translating theoretical work into practical applications.

What is the difference between Computational Plasma Physicist vs Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Engineer?

AspectComputational Plasma PhysicistComputational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Engineer
Required credentialsPhysics or engineering degrees, specialized in plasma physicsEngineering degrees, specialized in fluid mechanics or aerospace engineering
Work environmentResearch labs, academia, energy, and space industriesAerospace, automotive, energy, and manufacturing industries
Industry usagePlasma applications, fusion research, space physicsDesign and simulation of fluid systems, aerodynamics

While both roles involve computational modeling, a Computational Plasma Physicist focuses on plasma phenomena and related applications, whereas a CFD Engineer specializes in fluid flow simulations. The roles share similar skills in numerical methods but differ in industry focus and specific expertise.

What does a computational plasma physicist do?

A Computational Plasma Physicist uses computer models and simulations to study the behavior of plasma, which is a state of matter consisting of charged particles. They develop algorithms and run large-scale simulations to understand plasma dynamics in various contexts, such as fusion energy, space physics, or industrial applications. Their work helps predict plasma behavior in experiments and supports the development of new technologies. Collaboration with experimental physicists and engineers is common, as their findings guide further research and practical applications.
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What job categories do people searching Computational Plasma Physicist jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Computational Plasma Physicist jobs are:

Infographic showing various Computational Plasma Physicist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $168,844 per year, or $81.2 per hour.

Applied Mathematics and Plasma Physics Group Leader (T-5) (R&D Manager 4)

Los Alamos National Laboratory

Los Alamos, NM

$170K - $295K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Los Alamos National Laboratory rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

8th of 120 rated laboratories


Job description

What You Will Do
This position is open for both internal and external candidates to apply.
The Theoretical Division is seeking candidates for the Group Leader position in the Applied Mathematics and Plasma Physics Group. The Applied Mathematics and Plasma Physics Group (T-5) in the Theoretical Division conducts research in applied mathematics, numerical analysis, optimization and control, artificial intelligence, image reconstruction/processing, network science, theoretical and computational plasma physics, space weather and fusion energy science. The group integrates an interdisciplinary team of researchers trained in mathematics, statistics, computer science, physics and engineering.
The group leader's responsibilities include:
  • Strategic and operational management of the group
  • Participation in division-level visions and strategies
  • Promoting and maintaining fruitful scientific interactions with both internal and external organizations
  • Working with staff scientists to recruit, mentor, and develop outstanding new scientific talent
  • Fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce and environment
  • Development of new opportunities to support the research enterprise in the group
  • Direct supervision of the group's staff with responsibility for their performance evaluation, salary, and career development.

The group is composed of 43 staff scientists and 26 postdoctoral fellows who are supported by an annual budget of over $50M from multiple sponsors, including DOE (NNSA, Office of Science, Office of Electricity, ARPA-E), DOD and NASA. The group contributes to national and global security, with its researchers combining mathematical modeling, large scale computer simulations, and AI/data science to support Los Alamos National Laboratory's enhanced deterrence mission.
The group leader's responsibilities include management of the group, working with the division management, promoting and maintaining fruitful scientific interactions with organizations at LANL, working with staff scientists to recruit and develop outstanding new scientific talent, and to help develop new opportunities to support this research, and to develop the careers of graduate students, postdocs, and staff. The group leader must also conduct an active and vibrant research program at approximately 50% of their time.

What You Need
Minimum Job Requirements:
  • Demonstrated expertise and record of accomplishment in one or more of the research areas described above; the ability to contribute technically to one or more group projects, and the ability to develop programs in associated technical areas.
  • Effective and successful leadership experience, preferably in a scientific or technical team, group, or project setting.
  • Experience recruiting, mentoring, supervising, and facilitating the technical work of scientific researchers at all levels.
  • Effective communication skills, which includes, for example, an ability to engage in technical conversations across disciplines, an ability to discuss program strategies with current and potential sponsors, an ability to delegate tasks to staff and administrators, and an ability to interact with all levels of Laboratory management.

Education/Experience: Position requires a Bachelor's Degree from an accredited institution and 8 years related experience; or, an equivalent combination of education and experience directly related to the occupation.
Desired Qualifications:
  • Experience building collaborative relationships across group, division, laboratory, and national boundaries.
  • Experience proposing, developing, and sustaining research programs.
  • Demonstrated record of recruitment and mentoring of excellent scientists.
  • Active Q Clearance

Work Location: The work location for this position is onsite and located in Los Alamos, NM. All work locations are at the discretion of management.
Position commitment: Regular appointment employees are required to serve a period of continuous service in their current position in order to be eligible to apply for posted jobs throughout the Laboratory. If an employee has not served the time required, they may only apply for Laboratory jobs with the documented approval of their Division Leader. The position commitment for this position is 1 year.
Note to Applicants:
Due to federal restrictions contained in the current National Defense Authorization Act, citizens of the People's Republic of China-including the special administrative regions of Hong Kong and Macau-as well as citizens of the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (North Korea), and the Russian Federation, who are not Lawful Permanent Residents ("green card" holders) are prohibited from accessing facilities that support the mission, functions, and operations of national security laboratories and nuclear weapons production facilities, which includes Los Alamos National Laboratory.
Where You Will Work
Located in beautiful northern New Mexico, Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is a multidisciplinary research institution engaged in strategic science on behalf of national security. Our generous benefits package includes:
§ PPO or High Deductible medical insurance with the same large nationwide network
§ Dental and vision insurance
§ Free basic life and disability insurance
§ Paid childbirth and parental leave
§ Award-winning 401(k) (6% matching plus 3.5% annually)
§ Learning opportunities and tuition assistance
§ Flexible schedules and time off (PTO and holidays)
§ Onsite gyms and wellness programs
§ Extensive relocation packages (outside a 50 mile radius)
Additional Details
Directive 206.2 - Employment with Triad requires a favorable decision by NNSA indicating employee is suitable under NNSA Supplemental Directive 206.2. Please note that this requirement applies only to citizens of the United States. Foreign nationals are subject to a similar requirement under DOE Order 142.3A.
Clearance: Q (Position will be cleared to this level). Selected applicants will be subject to a background investigation conducted by or on behalf of the Federal Government, and must meet eligibility requirements* for access to classified matter. This position requires a Q clearance, and obtaining such clearance requires US Citizenship except in extremely rare circumstances. Dependent upon the position, additional authorization to access classified information may be required, which may or may not be available to dual citizens. Receipt of a Q clearance and additional access authorization ultimately is a decision of the Federal Government and not of Triad.
*Eligibility requirements: To obtain a clearance, an individual must be at least 18 years of age; U.S. citizenship is required except in very limited circumstances. See DOE Order 472.2 for additional information.
New-Employment Drug Test: The Laboratory requires successful applicants to complete a new-employment drug test and maintains a substance abuse policy that includes random drug testing. Although New Mexico and other states have legalized the use of marijuana, use and possession of marijuana remain illegal under federal law. A positive drug test for marijuana will result in termination of employment, even if the use was pre-offer.
Regular position: Term status Laboratory employees applying for regular-status positions are converted to regular status.
Internal Applicants: Regular appointment employees who have served the required period of continuous service in their current position are eligible to apply for posted jobs throughout the Laboratory. If an employee has not served the required period of continuous service, they may only apply for Laboratory jobs with the documented approval of their Division Leader. Please refer to Policy Policy P701 for applicant eligibility requirements.
Incentive Compensation Program: Position is eligible to participate in the Triad Incentive Compensation Program. You must be in an eligible position for a minimum of 3 months, before July 1st and remain in an eligible position as of the end of the fiscal year, September 30th. The annual distribution is prorated based on the number of months in the eligible position.
Equal Opportunity: Los Alamos National Laboratory is an equal opportunity employer. All employment practices are based on qualification and merit, without regard to protected categories such as race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status or spousal affiliation, physical or mental disability, medical conditions, pregnancy, status as a protected veteran, genetic information, or citizenship within the limits imposed by federal, state, and local laws and regulations. The Laboratory is also committed to making our workplace accessible to individuals with disabilities and will provide reasonable accommodations, upon request, for individuals to participate in the application and hiring process. To request such an accommodation, please send an email to applyhelp@lanl.gov or call (505)-664-6947.

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