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How much do general physics jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for general physics in the United States is $20.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.50 and $25.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What profession makes $400,000 a year?

In the field of physics, highly specialized roles such as senior research scientists, physics professors at top universities, or industry executives in technology and aerospace companies can earn $400,000 or more annually. These positions typically require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and often involve leadership, research, or management responsibilities.

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

To thrive as a General Physicist, you need a solid understanding of core physics principles, advanced mathematics, and typically at least a bachelor’s or master’s degree in physics or a related field. Familiarity with scientific programming languages (such as Python or MATLAB), laboratory equipment, and data analysis software is often required. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are vital soft skills for interpreting complex information and collaborating with research teams. These skills and qualifications are essential for conducting accurate experiments, advancing scientific knowledge, and effectively sharing results.

What is the difference between General Physics vs Physics Teacher?

AspectGeneral PhysicsPhysics Teacher
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Physics or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Physics Education or related field, often with teaching certification
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, industryClassrooms, schools, educational institutions
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research organizations, tech companiesPrimary and secondary schools, educational institutions
Common Search & ComparisonUnderstanding physics principles, research rolesTeaching methods, curriculum development, classroom management

While both roles involve physics knowledge, General Physics focuses on research and understanding fundamental principles, often in labs or industry. Physics Teachers apply physics knowledge to educate students, working primarily in schools. The key difference lies in their work environment and primary responsibilities, though both require strong physics credentials.

What do you do in general physics?

A job in general physics involves studying the fundamental principles of matter, energy, and forces, often through experiments, mathematical modeling, and data analysis. Physicists may work in research, education, or applied fields, using tools like laboratory equipment and computer simulations to solve scientific problems.

What are general physics jobs?

General physics jobs encompass a wide range of careers that apply fundamental principles of physics to solve problems in research, industry, education, and technology. Physicists in these roles may work in laboratories, universities, government agencies, or private companies, conducting experiments, analyzing data, and developing new technologies. Common positions include research physicist, laboratory technician, data analyst, and science educator. These jobs often require strong analytical skills, mathematical proficiency, and a solid understanding of core physics concepts. Advanced positions may also require graduate-level education.

What are 5 potential jobs for physics?

Five potential jobs for physics graduates include roles such as research scientist, aerospace engineer, medical physicist, data analyst, and physics teacher. These positions often require strong analytical skills, proficiency with scientific tools, and a solid understanding of physical principles. Many roles may also require advanced degrees or certifications depending on the specialization.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in General Physics roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in General Physics often encounter challenges such as staying current with rapidly evolving research, translating complex theoretical concepts into practical applications, and effectively collaborating with interdisciplinary teams. Addressing these challenges typically involves continuous learning through academic journals and conferences, actively seeking mentorship or collaboration opportunities, and honing communication skills to explain findings to both technical and non-technical audiences. Engaging in workshops and cross-functional projects can also help physicists stay adaptable and innovative in their work.

What can you do with a general physics degree?

A general physics degree prepares individuals for careers in research, engineering, data analysis, and technical roles. Graduates often work in industries such as aerospace, telecommunications, education, and government labs, utilizing skills in problem-solving, mathematics, and laboratory techniques.
More about General Physics jobs
What states have the most General Physics jobs? States with the most job openings for General Physics jobs include:
What job categories do people searching General Physics jobs look for? The top searched job categories for General Physics jobs are:
General Physics jobs near you
Infographic showing various General Physics job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,731 per year, or $20.1 per hour.
Visiting Instructor - Physics

Visiting Instructor - Physics

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Blacksburg, VA • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Virginia Tech rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 65 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

196th of 546 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Visiting Instructor - Physics
Job no: 536419
Work type: Teaching & Research Faculty
Senior management: College of Science
Department: Physics
Location: Blacksburg, Virginia
Categories: Instructional / Teaching Faculty
Job Description
Applications are invited for the position of Visiting Instructor in the Department of Physics at Virginia Tech. This is a full time, non-tenure track, one academic year appointment for the period August 2026 - May 2027. The successful applicant will teach and mentor students enrolled in large introductory physics classes at Virginia Tech. The responsibilities include lecture, demonstration, discussion, and supervising graduate student support activities in calculus-based physics for physical scientists and engineers, or in general physics, which is primarily for life-science majors. The teaching load is 3 - 4 courses per semester.
Required Qualifications
• A Master's degree or above in physics or a closely related field.
• Demonstrated record or potential for teaching introductory physics courses.
• Ability to contribute to a collegial classroom and work environment.
Overtime Status
Exempt: Not eligible for overtime
Appointment Type
Restricted
Salary Information
Commensurate with experience
Hours per week
40 hours - exempt position
Review Date
June 2, 2026
Additional Information
The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.
About Virginia Tech
Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including Blacksburg, the greater Washington, D.C. area, the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke, sites in Newport News and Richmond, and numerous Extension offices and research institutes. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $650 million in research annually.
Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance. These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective, along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development.
Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.
If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Jackie Woodyard at woodyaj@vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.
Advertised: May 13, 2026
Applications close:
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About Virginia Tech

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Virginia Tech, guided by its motto "Ut Prosim" (That I May Serve), embraces a hands-on, interdisciplinary approach to educate scholars as leaders and problem-solvers. As a comprehensive land-grant institution, it enriches the quality of life in Virginia and worldwide, fostering an inclusive community focused on knowledge, discovery, and creativity. With over 280 majors, the university serves a diverse student body of more than 36,000 across undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. Virginia Tech's presence extends throughout Virginia, including campuses in Northern Virginia, Roanoke, Newport News, and Richmond, along with multiple Extension offices and research centers. As a prominent global research institution, it conducts over $500 million in research annually.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Blacksburg, VA, US

Year founded

1872

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