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Heavy Ion Physics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Tesla

Space Radiation Engineer, AI Hardware

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$160K - $414K/yr

Plan and execute radiation testing campaigns (heavy-ion and proton beam) at national laboratories ... Degree in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related technical field, or ...

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Heavy Ion Physics information

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$39K

$46.9K

$52.5K

How much do heavy ion physics jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for heavy ion physics in the United States is $46,902.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,500.00 and $50,500.00 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.

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What cities are hiring for Heavy Ion Physics jobs?

Cities with the most Heavy Ion Physics job openings:

What states have the most Heavy Ion Physics jobs?

States with the most job openings for Heavy Ion Physics jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Heavy Ion Physics jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Heavy Ion Physics jobs are:

Heavy Ion Physics jobs near you
Infographic showing various Heavy Ion Physics job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $46,902 per year, or $22.5 per hour.

Space Radiation Engineer, AI Hardware

Tesla

Palo Alto, CA • On-site

$160K - $414K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago

Tesla rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 687 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

1st of 45 rated automakers

Job description

What to Expect

We are building the future of computing in partnering with SpaceX - a distributed, AI-optimized data center infrastructure operating in space. The terawatts orbital AI data center will be powered by Dojo - our custom supercomputer designed for the neural networks behind SpaceX, xAI, FSD, and Optimus.

As a Space Radiation Engineer, you will be the primary technical authority on ensuring high-performance AI accelerators (TPUs/GPUs), storage, and networking hardware can withstand the harsh space environment. You will lead the effort to transition from conventional hardware hardening to advanced architectural resilience, ensuring our data center scales safely while providing low-latency compute to terrestrial users.

What You'll Do
  • Radiation Environment Modeling:Analyze and predict space radiation environments (trapped particles, solar events, galactic cosmic rays) for targeted orbital altitudes (LEO/MEO)
  • AI Hardware Hardening:Develop shielding and mitigation strategies for cutting-edge AI accelerators to ensure Total Ionizing Dose (TID), Displacement Damage Dose (DDD), and Single Event Effect (SEE) tolerance
  • Radiation Testing Campaigns:Plan and execute radiation testing campaigns (heavy-ion and proton beam) at national laboratories to characterize component sensitivity
  • Architectural Resilience:Collaborate with computer architects to design software-defined fault tolerance, error detection, and correction techniques (ECC) to handle Single Event Upsets (SEUs)
  • Simulation & Analysis:Use computational tools (e.g., GEANT4, MCNPX, NOVICE, SpaceRad, CREME) to model radiation transport through spacecraft shielding
  • Root-Cause Analysis:Investigate radiation-induced anomalies and failures during simulation and testing, providing actionable design modifications
  • Documentation & Standards:Establish radiation hardness assurance (RHA) plans and requirements for high-density, multi-layer printed circuit boards (PCBs)

What You'll Bring
  • Degree in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related technical field, or equivalent experience
  • 5+ years of experience in space radiation effects analysis, modeling, and testing
  • Proven experience with space radiation tools such as CREME96, SPENVIS, FASTRAD, or NOVICE
  • Deep understanding of semiconductor physics and radiation impacts on microelectronics (ASICs, FPGAs, CPUs)
  • Strong written and verbal skills to present risk assessments to project stakeholders

Compensation and Benefits Benefits

Along with competitive pay, as a full-time Tesla employee, you are eligible for the following benefits at day 1 of hire:

  • Medical plans > plan options with $0 payroll deduction
  • Family-building, fertility, adoption and surrogacy benefits
  • Dental (including orthodontic coverage) and vision plans, both have options with a $0 paycheck contribution
  • Company Paid (Health Savings Accounts) HSA Contribution when enrolled in the High-Deductible medical plan with HSA
  • Healthcare and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
  • 401(k) with employer match, Employee Stock Purchase Plans, and other financial benefits
  • Company paid Basic Life, AD&D
  • Short-term and long-term disability insurance (90 day waiting period)
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Sick and Vacation time (Flex time for salary positions, Accrued hours for Hourly positions), and Paid Holidays
  • Back-up childcare and parenting support resources
  • Voluntary benefits to include: critical illness, hospital indemnity, accident insurance, theft & legal services, and pet insurance
  • Weight Loss and Tobacco Cessation Programs
  • Tesla Babies program
  • Commuter benefits
  • Employee discounts and perks program
Expected Compensation $160,000 - $414,000/annual salary + cash and stock awards + benefits

Pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. The total compensation package for this position may also include other elements dependent on the position offered. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment.

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