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Engineering Physicist Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

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Engineering Physicist information

See Washington salary details

$44.7K

$107.4K

$256.5K

How much do engineering physicist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for engineering physicist in Washington is $107,375.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,800.00 and $126,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Engineering physicists and certain specialized engineers, such as aerospace, petroleum, or software engineers with extensive experience and advanced skills, can earn $300,000 or more annually. High salaries are often associated with senior roles, leadership positions, or work in high-demand industries that require advanced technical expertise and certifications.

How does an Engineering Physicist typically collaborate with multidisciplinary teams during project development?

Engineering Physicists often work closely with engineers, material scientists, and researchers to bridge the gap between theoretical concepts and practical applications. They play a key role in translating complex physics principles into innovative solutions for real-world engineering challenges. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as Engineering Physicists contribute specialized knowledge during brainstorming, prototyping, and testing phases. This collaborative environment fosters professional growth and exposes team members to a broad range of technical perspectives.

What are Engineering Physicists?

Engineering Physicists are professionals who apply principles of physics and engineering to solve complex technical problems, develop new technologies, and improve existing processes or devices. They bridge the gap between pure scientific research and practical engineering applications, often working in industries such as aerospace, energy, electronics, and manufacturing. Their work can involve designing experiments, creating prototypes, and conducting simulations to test new theories or products. Engineering Physicists typically have a strong background in both physics and engineering and are skilled at using advanced mathematical and computational tools.

What engineers make $500,000?

Engineers such as petroleum engineers, aerospace engineers, and certain software engineers can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. High compensation typically requires extensive experience, advanced skills, and working in industries like oil and gas, aerospace, or technology with high-demand roles and leadership responsibilities.

Can a physicist do an engineer's job?

An engineering physicist applies physics principles to develop and improve engineering systems, often working in research, development, and technical roles. While physicists have strong analytical and problem-solving skills, engineering jobs typically require knowledge of engineering design, standards, and sometimes specific certifications or tools, which may differ from pure physics expertise.

How much do engineering physicists make?

Engineering physicists typically earn a median annual salary of around $100,000, with salaries varying based on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals or those in specialized fields can earn significantly more. They often work in research, development, or technical roles requiring strong problem-solving skills and knowledge of physics and engineering principles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Engineering Physicist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Engineering Physicist, you need a strong background in physics, mathematics, and engineering principles, typically evidenced by at least a bachelor's or master's degree in engineering physics or a related field. Familiarity with simulation software, laboratory instrumentation, and modeling tools such as MATLAB or COMSOL is commonly required, and certifications like Professional Engineer (PE) can be advantageous. Critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are vital soft skills for collaborating across disciplines and presenting complex findings. These competencies enable Engineering Physicists to develop innovative solutions and bridge the gap between scientific research and practical engineering applications.
What are popular job titles related to Engineering Physicist jobs in Washington? For Engineering Physicist jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Engineering Physicist jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Engineering Physicist job openings:
Infographic showing various Engineering Physicist job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 50% In-person, and 50% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $107,375 per year, or $51.6 per hour.
Experimental Atomic Physicist

Experimental Atomic Physicist

Computational Physics, Inc.

Washington, DC • On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Computational Physics, Inc. (CPI) is looking for an Experimental Atomic Physicist to support our customers at the U.S. Naval Observatory (USNO).

Background

The USNO is responsible for the creation, dissemination and maintenance of precise time and navigation products for the Department of Defense and other customers. CPI is seeking an Experimental Physicist with a background in atomic, molecular or optical physics to support next-generation atomic clock development at USNO. The successful candidate will support the work of the Clock Development division on optical lattice clocks and cold-atom beam optical clocks based on alkaline earth atoms. The new Physicist will work with a team of CPI contractors and USNO Scientists to develop robust solutions for high-uptime optical clocks and the infrastructure for their integration into the USNO timescale.

Most work for this position will be completed on-site at USNO in Washington, D.C.; occasional travel to conferences within and outside of the continental United States may be required based on the needs of the customer. Relocation assistance is available. The successful candidate must be able to obtain and maintain a SECRET security clearance upon hiring, an active clearance is not required at the time of application. The new Physicist will work closely with other CPI contractors and federal employees in the Precise Time Department, providing periodic updates to the Clock Development Division Chief.

Basic Qualifications

  • PhD in Experimental Atomic Physics or similar field
  • At least 6 years of experimental physics experience, this can include relevant work toward an advanced degree.
  • Data analysis using Python or similar programming language
  • Familiarity with lasers, optics and atomic spectroscopy
  • Familiarity with feedback control theory and electronics
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Desired Qualifications

  • Atomic clocks
  • Laser cooling and trapping of alkaline-earth atoms
  • Diode lasers and optical frequency combs
  • Hands on experience with python-based experimental control (e.g. ARTIQ)

Candidate must obtain a SECRET clearance upon hiring.

U.S. citizenship is required for DoD contracts.

About CPI

We love science! We study the physical properties of the Earth and our atmosphere, neighboring planets, and the sun. We make the study of science practical by translating our findings into products, both hardware and software, that make our customer's lives easier and better. CPI has served various U.S. Government agencies, universities, international science organizations, prime contractors, as well as commercial customers for 40 years.

CPI is an employee-owned company -- our team members receive company stock. Employee ownership motivates and empowers increased productivity, contribution to the longevity of the business, improved retention, and enhanced employee engagement.

Why Work for Us?

  • Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits
  • Positive, upbeat, and transparent company culture with opportunities for self-development and career advancement
  • Employee-owned small business that allows team members to learn from each other and take ownership
  • Professional development support including conference attendance and certification training

Benefits

  • 401(k), Profit Sharing and an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
  • Disability insurance (short-term and long-term)
  • Flexible schedule
  • Flexible spending account
  • Health, Dental and Vision insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Parental Leave
  • Tuition reimbursement

To apply please visit our careers page.

CPI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.

If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please contact us and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Requests for accommodation will be considered on a case-by-case basis.