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

Waters Corporation

Development Engineer I

Goleta, CA · On-site

This is an entry-level position ideally suited for recent graduates who enjoy hands-on laboratory ... Bachelor's degree in Physics, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Materials Science, Engineering, or another ...

Waters Corporation

Development Engineer I

Goleta, CA · On-site

This is an entry-level position ideally suited for recent graduates who enjoy hands-on laboratory ... Bachelor's degree in Physics, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Materials Science, Engineering, or another ...

Waters Corporation

Development Engineer I

Goleta, CA · On-site

This is an entry-level position ideally suited for recent graduates who enjoy hands-on laboratory ... Bachelor's degree in Physics, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Materials Science, Engineering, or another ...

All JobsPhysics JobsEntry Level Physics JobsEntry Level Physics Jobs in Goleta, CA

Entry Level Physics information

See Goleta, 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 Goleta, CA is $21.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.51 and $27.50 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 Goleta, CA?

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

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

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

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

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

Entry Level Physics jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Physics job openings in Goleta, 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 $45,026 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

Development Engineer I

Waters Corporation

Goleta, CA • On-site

Other

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Overview
Join a dynamic R&D team focused on developing the next generation of analytical instruments for the characterization of macromolecules, nanoparticles, and complex biological systems. As a Development Engineer I - Evaluation, you will support the testing, verification, and validation of new instrument platforms and technologies, with a primary focus on light scattering and chromatography-based analytical systems.
This is an entry-level position ideally suited for recent graduates who enjoy hands-on laboratory work, scientific experimentation, data analysis, and problem solving. Working closely with engineers, scientists, and cross-functional teams, you will help ensure new products meet performance, reliability, and quality requirements before release.
Responsibilities
  • Execute verification and validation testing for new instrument platforms, subsystems, and software features.
  • Perform laboratory experiments to characterize system performance, reliability, robustness, and usability.
  • Set up, operate, and troubleshoot scientific instrumentation, including HPLC/LC systems and light scattering instruments.
  • Collect, analyze, and document experimental data using statistical and graphical analysis methods.
  • Prepare clear and concise test reports summarizing results, observations, deviations, and recommendations.
  • Assist in developing test protocols, validation procedures, and acceptance criteria.
  • Support prototype assembly, integration, and evaluation activities.
  • Investigate and reproduce reported issues to assist engineering teams in root cause analysis and corrective actions.
  • Maintain laboratory equipment, test fixtures, and test records in accordance with quality procedures.
  • Collaborate with engineering, applications, manufacturing, and quality teams to ensure successful product development and transfer.

Qualifications
Required
  • Bachelor's degree in Physics, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Materials Science, Engineering, or another scientific discipline with 1-2 years of experience
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to accurately document experimental procedures and results.
  • Familiarity with scientific data analysis using Excel or similar tools.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment.
Preferred
  • Experience working with scientific instruments in a laboratory environment.
  • Familiarity with liquid chromatography (LC/HPLC) systems and workflows.
  • Exposure to light scattering instrumentation or related analytical techniques.
  • Experience collecting, analyzing, and interpreting experimental data.
  • Experience with software tools such as Excel, Origin, MATLAB, Python, JMP, or similar analytical platforms.
  • Understanding of laboratory best practices, calibration, and measurement fundamentals.

Company Description
Waters Corporation (NYSE:WAT) is a global leader in life sciences and diagnostics, dedicated to accelerating the benefits of pioneering science through analytical technologies, informatics, and service. With a focus on regulated, high-volume testing environments, our innovative portfolio harnesses deep scientific expertise across chemistry, physics, and biology. We collaborate with customers around the world to advance the release of effective, high-quality medicines, ensure the safety of food and water, and drive better patient outcomes by detecting diseases earlier, managing routine infections, and combating antibiotic resistance. Through a shared culture of relentless innovation, our passionate team of ~16,000 colleagues turn scientific challenges into breakthroughs that improve lives worldwide.
Diversity and inclusion are fundamental to our core values at Waters Corporation. It benefits our employees, our products, our customers and our community. Waters complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws. Qualified applicants are considered without regard to sex, race, color, ancestry, national origin, citizenship status, religion, age, marital status (including civil unions), military service, veteran status, pregnancy (including childbirth and related medical conditions), genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, legally recognized disability, domestic violence victim status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Waters is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. All hiring decisions are based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs at the time.

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