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Full Time Physicist Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

UNC-Chapel Hill

Open Rank

Chapel Hill, NC

Posting Information Department Physics and Astronomy - 319000 Posting Open Date 11/07/2023 ... UNC-Chapel Hill offers full-time employees a comprehensive benefits package, paid leave, and a ...

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Full Time Physicist information

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$38.4K

$92.2K

$220.2K

How much do full time physicist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for full time physicist in Raleigh, NC is $92,158.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,400.00 and $108,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a full time physicist do?

A full time physicist studies the fundamental principles of the universe, such as matter, energy, and the forces that govern them. They may conduct experiments, develop theories, analyze data, and use mathematical models to understand natural phenomena. Physicists often work in research institutions, universities, government agencies, or private industry, applying their knowledge to advance technology, medicine, energy, and more. Their daily tasks can involve laboratory work, computer simulations, collaboration with other scientists, and publishing research findings.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

Full-time physicists typically do not earn $500,000 annually unless they hold senior research positions, work in private industry, or have entrepreneurial ventures. High salaries in physics-related roles are often found in executive, consulting, or specialized R&D positions requiring advanced degrees and extensive experience. Most physicists earn a median salary well below this threshold, but top-tier roles in industry or academia can approach or exceed it with additional responsibilities and expertise.

What is the difference between Full Time Physicist vs Research Physicist?

AspectFull Time PhysicistResearch Physicist
CredentialsAdvanced degree in Physics (Master's or PhD)Advanced degree in Physics (Master's or PhD)
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, industryResearch labs, academic institutions, industry
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, government agencies, private sectorResearch institutions, corporate R&D, academia
Job FocusApplying physics principles in various settingsConducting scientific research and experiments

Both Full Time Physicists and Research Physicists typically hold advanced degrees and work in research environments. The main difference lies in their focus: Full Time Physicists may work in applied roles across industries, while Research Physicists primarily focus on scientific investigation and experimentation. Understanding these distinctions can help job seekers identify the right career path based on their interests and credentials.

Is there a high demand for physicists?

Physicists are in steady demand across industries such as research, technology, and engineering, especially for roles involving data analysis, modeling, and experimental work. Employment opportunities are often available in government labs, academia, and private sector companies, with a need for advanced degrees and specialized skills. Job growth varies by region and specialization but generally remains stable due to ongoing scientific and technological advancements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Full Time Physicist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Full Time Physicist, you need a strong background in physics, advanced mathematics, and research methods, usually supported by at least a master's or doctoral degree in physics or a related field. Familiarity with data analysis software (such as MATLAB or Python), laboratory instrumentation, and scientific publication processes is typically required. Exceptional problem-solving, critical thinking, and communication skills help you collaborate effectively and present complex results clearly. These competencies are essential for conducting high-quality research, driving innovation, and contributing valuable insights to scientific and technological advancements.

What profession makes $400,000 a year?

A full-time physicist can earn $400,000 or more annually, especially those in senior research roles, industry leadership, or with advanced degrees and specialized skills. High salaries are often associated with positions in private sector companies, government labs, or academia with significant experience and expertise.

What are some common challenges faced by full-time physicists in balancing research and administrative responsibilities?

Full-time physicists often find it challenging to balance their primary research activities with administrative duties such as grant writing, attending meetings, and managing lab operations. Time management becomes essential, as these administrative tasks can be time-consuming and may compete with research priorities. Many physicists address this by setting clear schedules, collaborating effectively with research assistants or lab managers, and leveraging institutional support services. Being proactive about communication and organization helps ensure that both scientific and administrative responsibilities are met successfully.

What jobs in the US pay 300,000 a year?

Full-time physicists in specialized roles such as research directors, senior scientists, or industry consultants can earn salaries of $300,000 or more annually, especially with advanced degrees and extensive experience. High-paying positions often require expertise in data analysis, programming, and advanced laboratory skills, typically found in industries like aerospace, defense, or technology firms.
What are the most commonly searched types of Physicist jobs in Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Physicist jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
Full Time Physicist jobs near you
Secondary Proton Medical Physicist

Secondary Proton Medical Physicist

UNC-Chapel Hill

Chapel Hill, NC

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago

University Of North Carolina At Chapel Hill rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 48 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

263rd of 537 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Posting Information
Department Radiation Oncology - Hospital - 413004 Posting Open Date 03/06/2026 Application Deadline Open Until Filled Yes Position Type Permanent Faculty Working Title Secondary Proton Medical Physicist Appointment Type Open Rank Vacancy ID FAC0005842 Full-time/Part-time Full-Time Permanent Hours per week 40 FTE 1 Position Location North Carolina, US Hiring Range Dependent on Experience Proposed Start Date 09/01/2026
Position Information
Be a Tar Heel!

A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation's top public universities. Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn.

One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.

University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks for numerous retail, restaurant and performing arts discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates on select campus events.

UNC-Chapel Hill offers full-time employees a comprehensive benefits package, paid leave, and a variety of health, life and retirement plans and additional programs that support a healthy work/life balance.

Primary Purpose of Organizational Unit
Our mission is to improve the health and well-being of North Carolinians and others whom we serve. We accomplish this by providing leadership and excellence in the interrelated areas of patient care, education and research.
Patient care: We promote health and provide superb clinical care while maintaining our strong tradition of reaching underserved populations and reducing health disparities across North Carolina and beyond.
Education: We prepare tomorrow's healthcare professionals and biomedical researchers from all backgrounds by facilitating learning within innovative and integrated curricula and team-oriented interprofessional education to ensure a highly skilled workforce.
Research: We develop and support a rich array of outstanding health sciences research programs, centers and resources. We provide infrastructure and opportunities for collaboration among disciplines throughout and beyond our university to support outstanding research. We foster programs in the areas of basic, translational, mechanistic and population research.
Position Summary
The Department of Radiation Oncology at the University of North Carolina is seeking a secondary faculty proton medical physicist for the North Carolina Cancer Center. The North Carolina Cancer Center is a member of the UNC Health Care System and is located in Chapel Hill, NC.
The North Carolina Cancer Center is currently staffed with 13 Radiation Oncologists, 7 Dosimetrists, 12 Medical Physicists, and 1 IT specialist. The North Carolina Cancer Center clinic is equipped with 3 Elekta accelerators, a CyberKnife system, a Mobetron intraoperative accelerator, an Elekta HDR system, a VariSeed LDR prostate system, a Philips large bore CT simulator, and a recently installed Philips MR simulator. The Center is in the process of installing a Varian TrueBeam. A Mevion S250-FIT Proton Therapy System is due to be installed in 2027. Clinical treatment planning systems (TPS) include Raystation TPS, Accuray Precision TPS for CyberKnife, Oncentra HDR Brachy TPS, and VariSeed LDR Brachy TPS. Ancillary systems include VisionRT.
Construction on the vault to house the Mevion S250-FIT Proton Therapy System will commence in 2026, with installation scheduled to begin in the latter half of 2027. A lead proton faculty physicist (to be hired) is expected to start as early as September 2026. The secondary proton faculty physicist, reporting to the lead physicist, would ideally begin in the same timeframe. Both the lead and secondary proton faculty physicists will work with Mevion and project management teams to ensure project success. Both the lead and secondary proton faculty physicists will work collaboratively with appropriate stakeholders to establish the infrastructure, workflows, and Policies and Procedures required for physics-related tasks and patient treatments.
The successful candidate is expected to be actively involved in a broad range of clinical, research, and teaching activities within the Department and the School of Medicine.
  • Clinical duties: The secondary proton faculty physicist will work under the supervision of the lead proton faculty physicist during acceptance and commissioning of the Mevion S250-FIT system, acquisition of dosimetry data, and commissioning of proton treatment planning in RayStation. Once the proton therapy system becomes operational, the successful candidate will provide clinical proton therapy physics services. Responsibilities include ensuring the accurate and safe delivery of proton radiation treatments and maintaining the safety of patients and treatment staff.
  • Research: The successful candidate must be motivated to contribute to, and collaborate in, research efforts. 
  • Residency Program: The department supports a CAMPEP-accredited Medical Physics Residency Program and, as such, mentoring of residents is expected.
Minimum Education and Experience Requirements
The successful candidate for this position must have the following qualifications: (1) an MS/PhD in Medical Physics/Physics/Engineering or related field; (2) be ABR/ABMP board certified or board eligible (passed Part 1); and (3) have graduated from a CAMPEP-accredited residency. The candidate may be at junior level or higher but should have experience in proton therapy physics.
Preferred Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience
The ideal candidate should have strong technical skills, a commitment to research and teaching, and excellent verbal and written communications skills.
Special Physical/Mental Requirements Campus Security Authority Responsibilities

Not Applicable.

Special Instructions
Qualified applicants should submit an application online at https://unc.peopleadmin.com/postings/314137. The application should include a cover letter, curriculum vitae (CV), and at least two references. Applicants are required to identify the names, titles, email addresses and phone numbers of two (2) professional references when applying. If selected, reference providers identified by the applicant will be contacted via email with instructions for uploading their letters of support.
Quick Link https://unc.peopleadmin.com/postings/314137
Department Contact Information
Department Contact Name and Title Allison Williams, HR Consultant Department Contact Telephone or Email allison_williams@med.unc.edu Academic Personnel Office Contact Information
If you experience any problems accessing the system or have questions about the application process, please contact the University's Executive Vice Chancellor and Provost office at (919)-962-1091 or send an email to facultyrecruitment@unc.edu.
Please note: The Executive Vice Chancellor & Provost office will not be able to provide specific updates regarding position or application status. 
If you have any questions about the job requirements or the hiring department notify the Department Contact.
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement
The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply without regard to age, color, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

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About University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

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The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC-Chapel Hill), located in Chapel Hill, NC, US, is renowned for being one of the leading research institutes in the world. Operating within the education industry, this public research university offers a broad range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across various disciplines. UNC-Chapel Hill was chartered in 1789 and has maintained its legacy of academic excellence and innovative research for more than two centuries. The institution operates under the core values of excellence, innovation, engagement, accessibility, diversity, and inclusivity. Their mission is to serve the people of North Carolina and the United States by teaching a diverse community of students to become the next generation of leaders.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Chapel Hill, NC, US

Year founded

1789

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