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Experimental Physicist Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Applied Physics

Experimental Physicist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Applied Physics is seeking an Experimental Physicist to join our team. The ideal candidate will have experience in open quantum system dynamics, quantum information, and quantum emulation with ...

Applied Physics

Experimental Physicist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Applied Physics is seeking an Experimental Physicist to join our team. The ideal candidate will have experience in open quantum system dynamics, quantum information, and quantum emulation with ...

EnergyWave.ai

Physicist

Newport Beach, CA · On-site

Experimental physicist or measurement engineer to help design and execute the characterization protocol -- calorimetry, instrumentation selection, error budgets, and blinded controls. You will be ...

New

TAE

Experimental Plasma Physicist

Foothill Ranch, CA · On-site

$125K - $140K/yr

The Scientist (Experimental Plasma Physicist) will develop, implement, and oversee advanced diagnostic systems focused on radiation and fast ion physics for the C-2W fusion device. This role involves ...

TAE

Accelerator Physicist - Medical Beams

Irvine, CA · On-site

$140K - $160K/yr

Conduct necessary experiments, collect and interpret experimental results, and summarize the ... Strong background in physics and technology of particle accelerators and related fields * Hand on ...

Pronoia

Theoretical Physicist

Torrance, CA · On-site

$120 - $170/hr

Derive testable predictions and translate deep theory into concrete experimental direction ... A physics PhD with genuine theoretical depth in a relevant subfield, such as quantum thermodynamics ...

Praxis, Inc.

Theoretical Physicist

Torrance, CA · On-site

$150 - $210/hr

Derive testable predictions and translate deep theory into concrete experimental direction ... A physics PhD with genuine theoretical depth in a relevant subfield, such as quantum thermodynamics ...

Pronoia Energy

Theoretical Physicist

Torrance, CA · On-site

Derive testable predictions and translate deep theory into concrete experimental direction ... A physics PhD with genuine theoretical depth in a relevant subfield, such as quantum thermodynamics ...

LLNL

Senior Laser Modeling Physicist

Livermore, CA

Collaborate in integrated experiments in the fields of nonlinear optics, long & short pulse, high-power and high-energy laser physics, or laser secondary source generation. * Provide solutions to ...

LLNL

Senior Laser Modeling Physicist

Livermore, CA · On-site

$9.8K/wk

Collaborate in integrated experiments in the fields of nonlinear optics, long & short pulse, high-power and high-energy laser physics, or laser secondary source generation. * Provide solutions to ...

LLNL

Senior Laser Modeling Physicist

Livermore, CA · On-site

Collaborate in integrated experiments in the fields of nonlinear optics, long & short pulse, high-power and high-energy laser physics, or laser secondary source generation. * Provide solutions to ...

Qnovia, Inc.

Aerosol Physicist

Newport Beach, CA · On-site

$135 - $175/hr

Develop computational and experimental models for aerosol transport and pulmonary deposition ... Ph.D. in Physics, Aerosol Science, Mechanical Engineering, or related field * 3+ years of ...

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All JobsExperimental Physicist JobsExperimental Physicist Jobs in California

Experimental Physicist information

See California salary details

$18.1K

$117.6K

$292.8K

How much do experimental physicist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for experimental physicist in California is $117,610.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,305.00 and $163,041.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an experimental physicist?

Experimental physicists are scientists who investigate the fundamental laws of nature by designing, conducting, and analyzing physical experiments. They work in laboratories or research facilities, using specialized equipment to test theories and discover new phenomena. Their work often involves developing new instruments, collecting and interpreting data, and collaborating with other scientists to advance our understanding of the physical world. Experimental physicists contribute to fields such as condensed matter, particle physics, and optics, among others.

What do experimental physicists do?

Experimental physicists conduct research to test scientific theories about the interplay of matter and energy. As an experimental physicist, your job duties include developing experiments based on the tenets of theoretical physics, utilizing sophisticated equipment to conduct your experiments and collect data, analyzing data to learn new information and contribute to innovation, determining the physical standards of various materials, and identifying new applications of the properties of energy and matter in manufacturing and industry. You can find experimental physicist jobs at research universities and in research and development for industries like aeronautics, health care, and manufacturing.

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

To thrive as an Experimental Physicist, you need a strong background in physics, mathematics, and laboratory techniques, typically supported by at least a master's or Ph.D. in physics or a related field. Proficiency with data analysis software (such as MATLAB or Python), laboratory instrumentation, and familiarity with specialized equipment or safety protocols is commonly required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for designing experiments and collaborating within research teams. These skills ensure accurate experimentation, reliable data interpretation, and successful advancement of scientific knowledge.

What are some typical challenges experimental physicists face when conducting research, and how are they addressed?

Experimental physicists often encounter challenges such as designing complex experiments, troubleshooting sophisticated equipment, and interpreting ambiguous data. These challenges are usually addressed through close collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, regular calibration and maintenance of apparatus, and iterative experimental design processes. Additionally, experimental physicists frequently consult with peers, attend conferences, and stay updated with the latest literature to adopt innovative solutions and refine their methodologies.

What is the difference between Experimental Physicist vs Theoretical Physicist?

AspectExperimental PhysicistTheoretical Physicist
CredentialsPhysics degree, often with lab experiencePhysics degree, advanced mathematics skills
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilitiesOffices, computer simulations, research groups
Industry UsageResearch institutions, universities, labsAcademic, research, and government agencies
Primary FocusDesigning and conducting experimentsDeveloping models and theoretical frameworks

Experimental Physicists focus on hands-on experiments to test theories, while Theoretical Physicists develop models and simulations to explain physical phenomena. Both roles are essential in advancing physics but differ mainly in their approach and work environment.

How much do experimental physicists make?

Experimental 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 senior roles or those in research-intensive environments can pay significantly more.
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Experimental Physicist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Experimental Physicist job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 70% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 62% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 36% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $117,610 per year, or $56.5 per hour.

Experimental Physicist

Los Angeles, CA

Applied Physics
Pharmaceutical and Medicine Manufacturing • 1 - 10 employees
Learn more about Applied Physicsexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Applied Physics is seeking an Experimental Physicist to join our team. The ideal candidate will have experience in open quantum system dynamics, quantum information, and quantum emulation with superconducting circuits. In this role, you will be responsible for leading and overseeing the efforts of designing, simulating, fabricating, characterizing, and controlling high temperature superconducting materials for new novel applications.

Qualifications:

  • PhD in physics, quantum optics, quantum information or equivalent combination of education and related experience
  • Advanced knowledge in circuit quantum electrodynamics and quantum control theory
  • Experience in the methods and toolsets for aluminum Josephson based circuits such as in-situ tip-tilt electron beam evaporation with the Dolan or Bridge-free techniques, as well as electron beam lithography of nanoscale-sized circuits
  • Advanced verbal and written communication skills necessary to collaborate effectively in a team environment
  • Developed and presented scientific and technical research proposals and reports
  • Demonstrated ability to perform independent research.

Requirements

  • Lead and oversee the efforts to design, simulate and fabricate a novel high-temperaturehigh temperature superconducting material
  • Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of scientists to develop next-generation advanced applications of superconducting quantum devices
  • Publish research results in external peer-reviewed scientific journals and participate in domestic/international conferences
  • Lead independent, complementary research efforts and interact with a broad spectrum of scientists internally and externally

Benefits

We offer a competitive salary and benefits package, flexible work hours, and opportunities for growth and career development. Join our dynamic and passionate team and help us make a positive impact on the world.

If you are a talented, motivated, and empathetic individual who shares our passion for making a difference, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity to work with our team at Applied Physics. Applied Physics is an equal opportunity employer.

Apply