ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Entry Level Physics Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Muon Space

Software Engineer, Entry-Level

San Jose, CA

$142K - $169K/yr

... physics simulations, customer-facing APIs and services, user interfaces, scheduling algorithms ... Entry-level software engineers are expected to bring significant skills and training, and then to ...

Muon Space

Software Engineer, Entry-Level

San Jose, CA · On-site

$142K - $169K/yr

... Entry-level software engineers are expected to bring significant skills and training, and then to ... Coursework or relevant experience in operating systems, algorithms, data structures, physics and ...

Muon Space

Software Engineer, Entry-Level

San Jose, CA · On-site

$142K - $169K/yr

... Entry-level software engineers are expected to bring significant skills and training, and then to ... Coursework or relevant experience in operating systems, algorithms, data structures, physics and ...

New

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPhysics JobsEntry Level Physics JobsEntry Level Physics Jobs in California

Entry Level Physics information

See California salary details

$5

$19

$25

How much do entry level physics jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level physics in California is $19.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.36 and $25.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level Physics vs Entry Level Mechanical Engineering?

AspectEntry Level PhysicsEntry Level Mechanical Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Physics or related fieldBachelor's in Mechanical Engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academia, tech companiesManufacturing, design firms, engineering consultancies
Industry UsageResearch institutions, tech companiesAutomotive, aerospace, manufacturing
Common Search IntentUnderstanding physics roles, research opportunitiesEngineering roles, design projects

Entry Level Physics focuses on fundamental scientific research and theoretical understanding, often in labs or academia. Entry Level Mechanical Engineering emphasizes designing, analyzing, and manufacturing mechanical systems. While both require a bachelor's degree, their work environments and industry applications differ, catering to distinct career paths.

What typical projects or tasks can I expect to work on as an entry level physicist?

As an entry-level physicist, you can expect to support senior researchers with data collection, analysis, and laboratory experiments. You may assist in setting up experimental apparatus, recording results, and using specialized software for simulations or data modeling. Collaboration with engineers, technicians, and other scientists is common, especially when troubleshooting equipment or interpreting findings. Over time, you'll gain more responsibility and may have the opportunity to contribute to research papers or present findings at team meetings.

What is an entry level physicist?

Entry level physics jobs are positions typically suited for recent graduates with a bachelor's degree in physics or a related field. These roles often include job titles such as research assistant, laboratory technician, data analyst, or quality control specialist. They provide opportunities to apply foundational physics knowledge in real-world settings, gain practical experience, and develop technical and analytical skills. Entry level positions may be found in industries like education, research, engineering, technology, or healthcare. These jobs can serve as a stepping stone to more advanced roles with further experience or education.

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 concepts, strong mathematical skills, and typically a bachelor's degree in physics or a related field. Familiarity with data analysis software (such as MATLAB or Python), laboratory equipment, and simulation tools is often required. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and effective communication help you stand out in research and team environments. These skills and qualities enable accurate experimentation, effective problem-solving, and clear dissemination of findings, which are essential for success in physics roles.
What are the most commonly searched types of Physics jobs in California? The most popular types of Physics jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Physics jobs in California? For Entry Level Physics jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Physics jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Physics jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Physics jobs? Cities in California with the most Entry Level Physics job openings:
Entry Level Physics jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Physics job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,184 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

Software Engineer, Entry-Level

Muon Space

San Jose, CA

$142K - $169K/yr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

About the role

Software Engineers at Muon work on embedded software on satellites and test equipment, physics simulations, customer-facing APIs and services, user interfaces, scheduling algorithms, data pipelines, computer vision, signal processing, cloud systems and more. They make it possible to build, test, launch, and run constellations of satellites for a wide variety of missions.

Entry-level software engineers are expected to bring significant skills and training, and then to quickly develop into experts in their domains to accelerate Muon's Mission with high quality software and systems. They must be a high performer ready to work in an exciting, fast-paced environment that values continuous improvement, embraces taking risks, and crafts the right solutions to delight our customers.

This position is hybrid and requires working on-site in our San Jose, CA office three days per week.

Responsibilities
  • Take ownership of the code for a new software capability on ground or in space
  • Propose and iterate on the design for software components
  • Write tests and monitoring to validate correctness of one's own code
  • Conduct analysis to support both development and testing
  • Quickly learn new skills, technology and techniques
  • Communicate clearly and accurately
  • Complete work in a timely manner
Required Qualifications
  • A bachelor's degree in computer science, aerospace engineering, computational mathematics or a related field
  • Proficient in C++, Python, TypeScript or a similar high-level language
  • Coursework or relevant experience in operating systems, algorithms, data structures, physics and statistics
Desirable Qualifications
  • Expertise in embedded software, network protocols, hardware and software testing, FPGA programming, GPU programming or other relevant disciplines
  • Experience with satellites, robots, or other autonomous systems
  • Previous experience on technical project teams (i.e. programming, robotics or rocket club, etc.)
  • Understanding of orbital mechanics
  • Experience with mathematical optimization, machine learning, signal processing or advanced algorithms
  • Experience with cloud environments and distributed systems
  • Advanced coursework or experience in physics, statistics, distributed systems, or embedded software
Salary

The salary range for this role is $142,000 - $169,000, plus a competitive equity grant and comprehensive benefits package. Final compensation will be determined based on skills, qualifications, experience, and geographic location as assessed during the interview process. 

Apply