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Entry Level Physics Jobs in Davis, CA (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Physics information

See Davis, CA salary details

$5

$21

$27

How much do entry level physics jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level physics in Davis, CA is $21.69, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.51 and $27.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 are 5 potential jobs for entry level physics?

Entry-level physics graduates can pursue roles such as research assistants, laboratory technicians, data analysts, technical support specialists, and quality control inspectors. These positions often require strong analytical skills, familiarity with scientific tools, and the ability to work in laboratory or technical environments.

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Physics jobs in Davis, CA?

For Entry Level Physics jobs in Davis, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Physics jobs in Davis, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Physics jobs in Davis, CA are:

What cities near Davis, CA are hiring for Entry Level Physics jobs?

Cities near Davis, CA with the most Entry Level Physics job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Physics job openings in Davis, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 29% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 22% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,106 per year, or $21.7 per hour.

Assistant Engineer - Civil Level I/II

County of Sacramento

Sacramento, CA

$87K - $133K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

The Position This is a continuous filing exam. The next filing cut-offs are at 5:00 pm on: 1/5/2026, 4/6/26, 7/6/26, 10/5/26, 1/4/27 Level I - $7,269.72 - $8,014.42/month Level II - $8,747.00 - $11,162.10/month If you received a postcard and are interested in applying and/or viewing the recruitment brochures for Associate Civil Engineer positions with the Department of Water Resources or the Department of Transportation, please click here. The Assistant Engineer - Civil Level I/II are responsible for a variety of civil engineering work in connection with the design, surveying, testing of materials and construction of public works projects

Public works projects include, but are not limited to roads and bridges; traffic control system design; drainage, water and wastewater collection, distribution and treatment; airports; new building construction and remodels; and other structures and projects. Assistant Engineer - Civil (Level I) is the trainee level class in the professional civil engineering series. Incumbents perform field and office assignments of a less complex nature in connection with the planning, design, construction and maintenance of a wide variety of civil engineering projects.

Incumbents are expected to demonstrate increased proficiency during the training period, and, upon completion thereof, promote to the Assistant Engineer - Civil (Level II). Incumbents are gradually given more difficult and responsible assignments and may assist experienced engineers in charge of more difficult civil engineering projects. Assistant Engineer - Civil (Level II) is the journey level class in the professional civil engineering series.

Under general supervision, incumbents are responsible for routine office or field projects of average difficulty and are expected to direct them to completion. Incumbents assigned to Level II generally have, in addition to meeting the minimum qualifications for the class, at least one year of paraprofessional engineering experience equivalent to one of the following classes in Sacramento County service: an Assistant Engineer - Civil (Level I), Senior Engineering Technician or higher. A Master's Degree in Civil Engineering may be substituted for the experience.

An Assistant Engineer - Civil (Level II) may serve as a resident engineer on smaller, less complex construction projects. Civil engineering work of this type is generally supervised and reviewed by positions in the next higher class, Associate Civil Engineer, which is assigned the function of squad or project leader. Assistant Engineers - Civil (Level II) have no supervisory responsibility, but may provide technical direction to subordinate engineering and paraprofessional engineering personnel engaged in design and construction of such work.

The duties, knowledge and abilities of the Level I and the Level II are the same except the work is originally done under close supervision; as experience is gained, greater independence of action is increased and less detailed supervision is received until the incumbent is functioning at the first working level. Examples of Knowledge and Abilities Knowledge of Principles of physics and mathematics used in civil engineering and their application to engineering problems Topographic and construction surveying, stress analysis, mechanics and properties of materials Common methods and equipment in engineering construction and of inspection methods used in reviewing such work Real property descriptions Hydraulics and pumps Civil engineering design and drafting methods and equipment Ability to Make accurate computations and neat and accurate field notes Prepare reports Maintain effective working relationships with fellow workers and the public Employment Qualifications Minimum Qualifications Either: 1. Graduation from a curriculum in civil engineering accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology.

Note: To verify if your degree program is ABET accredited, visit www.abet.org Or: 2. Current Engineer-in-Training Certificate, issued by the California State Board of Registration for Professional Engineers. Note: If the minimum qualifications include an educational or certificate/license requirement, applicants must submit proof of requirements with the application

Failure to submit proof of requirements may result in disqualification from the examination. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable. For guidelines on submitting acceptable proof of educational requirements, please click here or speak to someone in our office before the final filing or cut-off date listed in this notice.

General Qualifications Driver's License: A valid Driver's License, Class C or higher, is required prior to appointment to this class. Failure to maintain the appropriate California Driver's License may constitute cause for termination from this class in accordance with Civil Service Rule 11.4. Individuals who do not meet this requirement due to disability will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis

Certificates/licenses: Per Health and Safety Code, Sections 18949.25 - 18949.31, incumbents may be required to obtain a certification from a recognized state, national, or international association, as determined by the County, within two years of date of hire or assignment. Some positions in this class series require incumbents to complete one year of verifiable experience in the appropriate field and, within one year thereafter, to obtain certification from a recognized state, national, or international association, as determined by the County. Any person currently and continuously employed by the County as an inspector, plans examiner or building official, for not less than two years prior to January 1, 1996, is exempt from the certification requirements as outlined above

In addition, persons appointed to this class might be required to complete a minimum of 45 hours of continuing education every three years. The County may determine appropriate providers of continuing education such as community colleges or organizations affiliated with code enforcement. Note: Failure to meet the required certification requirements may constitute cause for termination from this class in accordance with Civil Service Rule 11.4

Physical Abilities: Sit for extended periods, frequently stand and walk Have manual dexterity and eye-hand coordination needed to use a variety of office equipment such as computers, telephones, calculators, copiers, and drafting equipment Have corrected vision in order to perform drafting, review maps and legal descriptions, and perform other essential functions of the job Occasionally walk on uneven terrain at construction sites, etc. Individuals who are unable to pass some of the physical requirements due to physical disability will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Working Conditions: May be required to work in excess of 40 hours a week and/or work irregular hours, particularly during emergency situations.

Background/Criminal History: The County may access criminal history information on candidates who have accepted a conditional offer of appointment within this class consistent with the provisions of Board of Supervisors Resolution No. 82-602, Personnel Policies and Procedure, and applicable federal and state law. The County shall not consider for employment any applicant who has been convicted of a felony or misdemeanor that relates to or impacts the applicant's ability to perform the job duties of this class unless it is determined that mitigating circumstances exist.

For purposes of accessing criminal history information, the candidate will be fingerprinted. A subsequent arrest notification may be obtained. Special Access: Some incumbents in this class must acquire and maintain an airport security badge allowing access to secure County airport locations.

Probationary Period The probationary period for this classification is six (6) months. Application and Testing Information APPLICATION Qualified applicants are encouraged to apply immediately. All applicants must complete and submit an online County of Sacramento employment application by 5:00 PM on the posted cut-off date.

Click here to apply. County of Sacramento Department of Personnel Services Employment Services Division 700 H Street, Room 4667 Sacramento, CA 95814 Phone (916) 874-5593; 7-1-1 California Relay Service Email EmployOffice@Saccounty.net Inter-Office Mail Code: 09-4667 www.governmentjobs.com/careers/sacramento Employment applications and all documentation requested in this announcement must be submitted by 5:00 p.m. on the cut-off date

Employment Services is not responsible for any issues or delays caused by an applicant's computer or web browser. Applicants will be automatically logged out if they have not submitted their applications and all documentation prior to 5:00 p.m. on the cut-off date

Your application should highlight all relevant education, training, and experience, and clearly indicate how you meet the minimum qualifications for the position as of the cut-off date. Application information must be current, concise and related to the requirements in this job announcement. You may only apply for this recruitment once.

Duplicate and incomplete applications will be disqualified. A resume may be included with your application, however it will not substitute for the information requested on the application. SUPPLEMENTAL QUESTIONNAIRE Applicants are required to provide a full and complete response to each supplemental question.

The Supplemental Questionnaire is located in the tab marked "Supplemental Questions". Please be descriptive in your response. Note: Responses of "See Resume" or "See Application", or copy and paste of work experience are not qualifying responses and will not be considered.

Supplemental Questionnaires must be submitted by 5:00 p.m. on the cut-off date. Employment Services is not responsible for any issues or delays caused by an applicant's computer or web browser

Applicants will be automatically logged out if they have not submitted their applications and all documentation prior to 5:00 p.m. on the cut-off date. The supplemental questions are designed to elicit specific information regarding a candidate's experience, education, and training

Responses should be consistent with the information on your application and are subject to verification. Please provide place of employment, pertinent dates, and concise, descriptive and detailed information for each question. If a job included responsibilities applicable to several questions, separate the different functions of the job to answer all the questions completely.

Resumes or referral to the application or other questionnaire responses will not be accepted in lieu of completing each question. If you have no experience, write "no experience" for the appropriate question. For many individuals, it is more efficient to develop responses to the supplemental questions in a word processing document and then paste them into the final document to be submitted.

Changes or corrections to your Supplemental Questionnaire cannot be made once your application packet has been submitted. If the Supplemental Questionnaire is used in the Formula Rate exam, failure to complete all of the questions or incomplete responses will result in a lower score. While scoring the Supplemental Questionnaire, the candidate's application and/or attachments will not be reviewed, therefore, a candidate's responses to the questions should be accurate, thorough, detailed, and complete.

FORMULA RATE EXAMINATION (Weighted 100%) All candidates meeting the minimum qualifications by the cut-off date will have their Supplemental Questionnaire scored in the Formula Rate Examination. This examination will evaluate the relevance, level, recency, progression and quality of candidate's education, training and experience. The candidate's application or other materials will not be included in this examination.

Therefore, the candidate's responses to the supplemental questionnaire should be thorough, detailed and complete. The score from the Formula Rate Examination will determine the ranking on the eligible/employment list for this job. All candidates competing in the testing process will receive written notice of their examination results by email.

Notices can also be accessed in their governmentjobs.com inbox. Applicants achieving a passing score will be placed on the eligible list in rank order. The rank is determined by the test score attained from the examination

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS Click here for Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's) For information regarding County jobs: www.governmentjobs.com/careers/sacramento Sacramento County is about enriching communities to thrive. We strive to create inclusive workplaces that reflect the communities we serve. We value and celebrate the unique perspectives, backgrounds, abilities, and diverse dimensions of our employees and residents

Through transparency, courage, innovation, and trust we are committed to advance equity and transformational change. We are a proud equal opportunity employer. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability for any phase of the hiring process, please contact our Disability Compliance Office at dco@saccounty.gov or 916-874-7642, CA Relay 711

For more information, visit: Reasonable Accommodation Requests - Job Applicant Instructions