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Entry Level Physicist Jobs in Decatur, AL (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Level Physicist information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$37K

$88.9K

$212.3K

How much do entry level physicist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level physicist in Decatur, AL is $88,875.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,300.00 and $105,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does an Entry-Level Physicist Do?

As an entry-level physicist assist, you assist other team members to develop and evaluate the results of an experiment or design. You use sophisticated software to conduct the analyses and verify the feasibility of the projects. You can find entry-level physicist positions in a variety of industries, including communications, medical technology, and electronics. Duties vary with the job and your experience. In this role, you typically perform support tasks instead of actual research. Other responsibilities include writing grants for funding, entering data, and performing other administrative duties.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level physicists when transitioning from academia to industry roles?

Entry level physicists often encounter challenges when adapting to the faster-paced, results-driven environment of industry compared to academia. They may need to quickly learn new technical tools, adjust to collaborative projects with multidisciplinary teams, and align their research to business goals rather than purely scientific inquiry. Effective communication and the ability to translate complex concepts for non-specialist colleagues are also crucial skills that may require additional development. Seeking mentorship and actively engaging with colleagues can help ease this transition and foster professional growth.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Physicist, you need a solid understanding of core physics principles, strong mathematical skills, and at least a bachelor's degree in physics or a closely related field. Familiarity with analytical software such as MATLAB, Python, or LabVIEW, as well as experience with laboratory equipment and data analysis tools, is typically required. Critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help set candidates apart in collaborative research and technical discussions. These skills and qualifications are crucial for conducting experiments, interpreting results, and contributing to both academic and industry-driven projects.

What is the difference between Entry Level Physicist vs Research Assistant in Physics?

AspectEntry Level PhysicistResearch Assistant in Physics
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Physics or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Physics or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, government agenciesResearch labs, universities, government agencies
Employer & Industry UsageEmployers seek entry-level physicists for research and analysis rolesEmployers hire research assistants to support physics research projects

Both roles typically require similar educational backgrounds and work environments. An Entry Level Physicist often has more responsibilities in analysis and project development, while a Research Assistant primarily supports ongoing research activities. The main difference lies in job scope and potential career progression.

What does an entry level physicist do?

An entry level physicist typically assists in conducting experiments, analyzing data, and supporting research projects under the supervision of more experienced physicists. Their duties may include setting up laboratory equipment, running simulations, and documenting results. They often work in academic, government, or industrial settings and may contribute to scientific papers or presentations. Entry level physicists also continue learning new techniques and may collaborate with other scientists or engineers.
More about Entry Level Physicist jobs
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Physicist jobs in Decatur, AL look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Physicist jobs in Decatur, AL are:
What cities near Decatur, AL are hiring for Entry Level Physicist jobs? Cities near Decatur, AL with the most Entry Level Physicist job openings:
Entry Level Physicist jobs near you
Threat Engineer - Entry Level

Threat Engineer - Entry Level

Modern Technology Solutions, Inc.

Huntsville, AL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

MTSI is seeking an Entry-Level Threat Engineer to support missile system modeling and analysis activities for the Missile Defense Agency (MDA). The ideal candidate will contribute to the development of high-fidelity threat models, EO/IR signature characterizations, and analytical products that inform critical missile defense studies and tests. This role offers the opportunity to work alongside a multidisciplinary team of engineers and scientists in a highly technical, mission-driven environment.
Responsibilities:
  • Primary focus will be developing/updating missile models for threat systems
  • Source information will come from CAD/line drawings
  • Will use existing modeling tools such as the Optical Signatures Code (OSC), OPTical In-line SIGnature (OPTISIG) Generator as well as several internal toolsets to characterize missile systems from an EO/IR signature perspective
  • Characterizing missile systems and providing products to support multiple studies and activities across the Missile Defense Agency (MDA)
  • Work with integrated team across multiple modeling disciplines (CAD, kinematic, EO/IR, and plume modeling). Technical areas associated with position includes aspects of aerospace/mechanical engineering, signature physics (blackbody radiation), radiometry, heat transfer/thermal analysis
  • Flight test analysis (retrieving test data such as kinematic/dynamic information, collected data, etc., and comparing to models being developed)
  • Generating briefings to support analysis, product delivery, Quick Reaction Tasks (QRTs)
  • Writing code and developing software tools to assist with IR data generation and analysis

Desired Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Physics, Computer Science, or a related technical field.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD SECRET security clearance.
  • Proficiency in one or more programming languages, including MATLAB, Python, C++, or C#.
  • Experience using CAD tools such as SolidWorks, NX, or similar platforms.

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