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Heavy Ion Physics Jobs in Ridge, NY (NOW HIRING)

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Heavy Ion Physics information

See Ridge, NY salary details

$38.6K

$46.4K

$51.9K

How much do heavy ion physics jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for heavy ion physics in Ridge, NY is $46,366.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,000.00 and $49,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is heavy ion physics?

Heavy ion physics is a branch of nuclear physics that studies the properties and behavior of atomic nuclei when they collide at high energies, particularly with ions heavier than hydrogen, such as gold or lead. Researchers use particle accelerators to create these collisions and investigate phenomena like the quark-gluon plasma, a state of matter believed to have existed just after the Big Bang. This field helps scientists understand the fundamental forces and building blocks of the universe, as well as the behavior of matter under extreme conditions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a heavy ion physicist?

To thrive as a Heavy Ion Physicist, you need a strong background in physics, advanced mathematics, and often a Ph.D. in nuclear or particle physics. Proficiency in data analysis software, programming languages like Python or C++, and familiarity with particle accelerator systems are typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication skills help you collaborate on large-scale experiments and present complex findings. These skills are crucial for advancing scientific understanding and contributing to major research projects in the field.

What are some common challenges faced by heavy ion physicists in experimental research settings?

Heavy ion physicists often encounter challenges related to the complexity of experimental setups and the sheer volume of data produced during collisions. Ensuring precise calibration and synchronization of detectors, troubleshooting hardware issues, and managing data analysis pipelines are frequent tasks. Collaboration is key, as physicists regularly work in large, international teams, requiring effective communication and coordination with colleagues from diverse backgrounds. Additionally, staying current with advancements in both experimental techniques and theoretical models is essential for success in this dynamic field.

What is the difference between Heavy Ion Physics vs Nuclear Physicist?

AspectHeavy Ion PhysicsNuclear Physicist
Required CredentialsPhysics degree, PhD often preferred, specialized training in particle interactionsPhysics or nuclear engineering degree, PhD common, focus on nuclear reactions
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, particle accelerators, large-scale experimentsResearch facilities, nuclear reactors, laboratories
Industry UsageHigh-energy physics research, particle collision experimentsNuclear energy, medical imaging, nuclear safety
Comparison Search IntentUnderstanding specialized particle physics rolesUnderstanding nuclear science careers

Heavy Ion Physics and Nuclear Physicist roles both involve advanced physics knowledge and research in nuclear-related fields. Heavy Ion Physics focuses on studying high-energy collisions of heavy ions in particle accelerators, while Nuclear Physicists work broadly on nuclear reactions, nuclear energy, and applications. Although overlapping in credentials and work environments, their specific research areas and industry applications differ.

What cities near Ridge, NY are hiring for Heavy Ion Physics jobs?

Cities near Ridge, NY with the most Heavy Ion Physics job openings:

Heavy Ion Physics jobs near you
Infographic showing various Heavy Ion Physics job openings in Ridge, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $46,366 per year, or $22.3 per hour.

Accelerator Division Director

Brookhaven Science Associates, LLC

Upton, NY • On-site

$250 - $420/hr

Other

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

Job description

Position Summary

The Brookhaven National Laboratory Accelerator Division Director will lead the transition of the Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider (RHIC) to support the Electron‑Ion Collider (EIC). The Director will provide strategic, technical, operational, and financial leadership for a 75‑person organization that manages an annual operating budget of approximately $60 million. The role reports to the Associate Laboratory Director for the Fundamental Interactions and Particles Directorate and works closely with EIC Project leadership, technical division leadership, user communities, funding agencies, and the Laboratory’s senior management. The Director is responsible for aligning Division activities with Laboratory priorities, the EIC Project objectives, and Department of Energy mission requirements.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Strategic Leadership and Organizational Direction: Provide overall leadership, develop a long‑term vision, establish priorities, performance expectations, governance processes, and management systems. Serve on the FIP Directorate leadership team and contribute to laboratory‑wide planning, resource allocation, and institutional decision‑making.
  • Accelerator Operations and Operational Excellence: Lead safe, reliable, secure, and efficient operation of RHIC, the hadron injector chain, and supporting accelerator infrastructure. Direct operational planning, scheduling, maintenance, outage coordination, and recovery activities. Establish and monitor performance metrics, key performance indicators, and reliability measures.
  • EIC Transition and Operational Readiness: Partner with the EIC Project, Technical Division, and other Laboratory organizations to ensure a seamless transition from RHIC operations to EIC commissioning and long‑term operations. Develop and execute operational readiness strategies, coordinate operational interfaces among project organizations, facility operations, engineering, maintenance, and scientific stakeholders.
  • Infrastructure Stewardship and Asset Management: Provide executive oversight of accelerator infrastructure, utilities, technical systems, and facility assets. Develop and implement long‑term modernization strategies, prioritize capital investments, and manage lifecycle asset programs.
  • Engineering, Maintenance, and Reliability: Oversee maintenance, engineering support, and reliability improvement programs. Promote reliability‑centered maintenance, asset health monitoring, predictive maintenance technologies, and data‑driven decision‑making.
  • Safety, Security, and Regulatory Compliance: Ensure all activities comply with Laboratory policies and DOE requirements governing safety, environmental protection, quality assurance, cybersecurity, and conduct of operations. Maintain a strong safety culture.
  • Financial and Resource Management: Plan and manage the Division’s operating budget. Align financial resources with strategic priorities and operational requirements.
  • Workforce Leadership and Organizational Development: Lead, inspire, and develop a multidisciplinary workforce. Partner with HR to support recruitment, retention, succession planning, and leadership development.
  • Scientific and Technical Leadership: Provide guidance supporting accelerator operations, modernization efforts, and technology development. Encourage innovation, research, and technical collaboration.
  • Stakeholder Engagement and External Relations: Represent the Division in interactions with DOE officials, Laboratory leadership, advisory committees, user communities, and external stakeholders. Prepare and deliver executive‑level briefings, technical presentations, and strategic reports.
Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Ph.D. in Physics, Engineering, or a closely related discipline.
  • Minimum 12 years of progressively responsible experience in accelerator science, engineering, or complex scientific facility operations, including at least 8 years of leadership, management, and supervisory experience within a DOE laboratory or equivalent organization.
  • Demonstrated success leading large, mission‑driven scientific, technical, engineering, and operational organizations, including strategic planning, workforce management, fiscal oversight, and organizational performance.
  • Proven record of delivering safe, reliable, and efficient accelerator facility operations while complying with safety, environmental, and conduct of operations requirements.
  • Experience managing infrastructure modernization initiatives, reliability improvement programs, lifecycle replacement activities, and long‑term asset stewardship.
  • Experience developing and implementing operational readiness, maintenance, and reliability strategies for high‑performance scientific facilities.
  • Internationally recognized accomplishments in accelerator physics, engineering, or operations, evidenced by publications, technical achievements, invited presentations, and professional recognition.
  • Ability to lead multidisciplinary teams and achieve organizational objectives through staff development, collaboration, consensus building, strategic decision‑making, and resolution of complex technical and operational challenges.
  • Experience engaging senior laboratory leadership, funding agencies, advisory committees, user communities, and external stakeholders.
  • Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills, including the ability to communicate complex technical concepts to diverse audiences and develop executive‑level presentations.
  • Demonstrated commitment to fostering an inclusive, collaborative, and high‑performing workplace culture.
  • Ability to travel domestically and internationally as required. Position is on‑site.
Preferred Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Knowledge of DOE programs, policies, and operations of National Laboratories and large scientific user facilities.
  • Familiarity with DOE project management requirements, DOE Order 413.3B, Critical Decision processes, risk management, and project performance management systems.
  • Direct project management experience.
  • Experience supporting the design, commissioning, operation, maintenance, or modernization of hadron accelerators, collider facilities, injector complexes, or other large‑scale accelerator systems.
Additional Information

Employees must obtain and maintain a DOE Uncleared Personal Identity Verification (UPIV) credential in accordance with HSPD‑12 requirements.

Application Deadline

8/6/26

Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action

Brookhaven National Laboratory is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. We are committed to fostering a respectful and collaborative environment that fuels scientific discovery. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply. Individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, perform essential job functions, and receive other benefits and privileges of employment. The Laboratory complies with the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, including the 45 Code of Federal Regulations § 404.11.

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