1

Interdisciplinary Physical Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$74K/yr

Skill to integrate an interdisciplinary team of professionals to include attorneys, public health specialists, public affairs specialists, biological scientists, environmental engineers, physical ...

$74K/yr

Skill to integrate an interdisciplinary team of professionals to include attorneys, public health specialists, public affairs specialists, biological scientists, environmental engineers, physical ...

$74K/yr

Skill to integrate an interdisciplinary team of professionals to include attorneys, public health specialists, public affairs specialists, biological scientists, environmental engineers, physical ...

$74K/yr

Skill to integrate an interdisciplinary team of professionals to include attorneys, public health specialists, public affairs specialists, biological scientists, environmental engineers, physical ...

Showing results 21-40

Interdisciplinary Physical Scientist information

See salary details

$44K

$81.5K

$151K

How much do interdisciplinary physical scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for interdisciplinary physical scientist in the United States is $81,521.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,000.00 and $99,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an interdisciplinary physical scientist?

An Interdisciplinary Physical Scientist is a professional who applies knowledge from multiple scientific fields—such as physics, chemistry, geology, and environmental science—to solve complex problems or conduct research. They often work on projects that require integrating methods and concepts from different scientific disciplines. Common work environments include government agencies, research institutions, and private industry. Their responsibilities may include data analysis, field studies, laboratory work, and developing scientific models. This role typically requires at least a bachelor's degree in a physical science or a related field.

How do interdisciplinary physical scientists typically collaborate with professionals from other scientific fields?

Interdisciplinary Physical Scientists frequently work on teams that bring together experts from various scientific backgrounds such as chemistry, biology, geology, and environmental science. This collaboration often involves sharing data, jointly developing research methodologies, and integrating different scientific perspectives to address complex problems. Effective communication and a willingness to learn from colleagues in other disciplines are essential for success in this role. These collaborative efforts not only enhance project outcomes but also foster professional growth and cross-disciplinary innovation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an interdisciplinary physical scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Interdisciplinary Physical Scientist, you need a strong background in physical sciences such as chemistry, physics, or geology, typically supported by at least a bachelor's or master's degree in a related field. Familiarity with scientific analysis software, laboratory instrumentation, and data modeling systems is often required, along with knowledge of relevant regulations or standards. Critical thinking, effective communication, and the ability to collaborate across disciplines are essential soft skills. These capabilities enable professionals to conduct rigorous scientific investigations, interpret complex data, and contribute to multidisciplinary solutions for scientific and societal challenges.

What careers can you get with a physical science degree?

An interdisciplinary physical scientist can pursue careers in research, environmental consulting, data analysis, or laboratory work, often in government agencies, private industry, or academia. These roles typically require strong analytical skills, knowledge of scientific tools and methods, and may involve fieldwork or data modeling. A physical science degree provides a foundation for diverse scientific and technical careers.

What are popular job titles related to Interdisciplinary Physical Scientist jobs?

For Interdisciplinary Physical Scientist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Interdisciplinary Physical Scientist job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,521 per year, or $39.2 per hour.

Physical Scientist

Travis Air Force Base, CA • On-site

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)
Public Administration • 10K+ employees

$74K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Analyze water samples and related data using specialized equipment and instruments.

  • Perform preparations, quality control, calibrations, calculations, and waste and sample disposal related to analysis.

  • Generate reports based on analytical data produced.


U.S. Department Of Defense rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 540 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Click on "Learn more about this agency" button below for IMPORTANT additional information.
This is a Direct Hire Solicitation. This public notice is to gather applications that may or may not result in a referral or selection.Qualifications:In order to qualify, you must meet the specialized experience requirements described in the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards for General Schedule Professional and Scientific Positions.
BASIC REQUIREMENT OR INDIVIDUAL OCCUPATIONAL REQUIREMENT:
Degree: Physical science, engineering, or mathematics that included 24 semester hours in physical science and/or related engineering science such as mechanics, dynamics, properties of materials, and electronics.
OR
Combination of education and experience -- education equivalent to one of the majors shown in A above that included at least 24 semester hours in physical science and/or related engineering science, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: In addition to meeting the basic requirement above, to qualify for this position you must also meet the qualification requirements listed below.
FOR GS-11: Successfully completed 1 year of specialized experience that equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position, and that is typically in or related to the position to be filled. To be creditable, the specialized experience must have been at the GS-09 grade level or equivalent under other pay systems in the Federal service. Examples of specialized experience may include: serving as an advanced analyst in the field of analytical chemistry for analysis of water samples (primarily stream water, soil leachate, and precipitation); using equipment and instruments including atomic absorption spectrophotometers, ion chromatographs, automatic titrators, ammonia analyzers, carbon analyzers, and nitrogen analyzers; performing preparations, quality control, calibrations, calculations, waste and sample disposal related to the analysis; training other technicians in the performance of routine duties; and generating reports based on analytical data produced.
FOR GS-12: Successfully completed 1 year of specialized experience that equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position, and that is in or related to the position to be filled. To be creditable, the specialized experience must have been at the GS-11 grade level or equivalent under other pay systems in the Federal service. Examples of creditable specialized experience may include planning and executing complex physical science studies, which usually involved intensive investigations into recognized phenomena. This work typically involved conventional methods and techniques though it required going beyond clear precedents, and required adapting methods to the problems at hand and interpreting findings in terms of their scientific significance. At this level, physical scientists have the ability to independently perform scientific work of considerable difficulty.
FOR GS-13: Successfully completed 1 year of specialized experience that equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position, and that is in or related to the position to be filled. To be creditable, the specialized experience must have been at the GS-12 grade level or equivalent under other pay systems in the Federal service. Examples may include research design; analysis and implementation; analysis and/or consolidation of research findings data to identify strategic research areas or needs.
FOR GS-14: Successfully completed 1 year of specialized experience that equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position, and that is in or related to the position to be filled. To be creditable, the specialized experience must have been at the GS-13 grade level or equivalent under other pay systems in the Federal service. Examples may include providing research and science support information for program policy or Regional program management of complex or interdisciplinary nature; identifying developmental and training needs of managers to address program area design challenges and making policy or programmatic recommendations for specific developmental tasking and training assignments; participating in policy and guidance development to enable organizational implementation of policy or program initiatives; monitoring program implementation and making recommendations on the allocation of resources; adjustment of organizational engagement methods, protocols or procedures to ensure maximum effectiveness, efficiency, and economy.
FOR GS-15: Successfully completed 1 year of specialized experience that equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position, and that is in or related to the position to be filled. To be creditable, the specialized experience must have been at the GS-14 grade level or equivalent under other pay systems in the Federal service. Examples of creditable specialized experience: performs management planning duties such as concept development, master integration planning, and programming design for programs or projects, taking into account feasibility, costs, and economics; conceives, plans, conducts and reviews work in areas where there is little theory to guide efforts; Leads a research group and/or project; Performs environmental modeling and forecasting duties; Publishes research findings in scientific journals and Represents the organization to larger scientific and management groups.
To view qualifying educational requirements and/or combination of education and experience, click on the following link: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/1300/general-physical-science-series-1301/
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs): Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the following areas:
  1. Knowledge of professional environmental physical scientific principles, practices, techniques, and procedures to effectively participate in project development, execution, training, and assistance in assigned projects (see Environmental Program Checklist).
  2. Knowledge to troubleshoot routine environmental physical science problems requiring investigation of unsanitary or questionable conditions in assigned projects (see Environmental Program Checklist).
  3. Knowledge of applicable Federal, State, and local laws, regulations, and other guidance to make decisions and recommendations concerning assigned restoration, compliance, conservation, pollution prevention and/or integration principles and practices.
  4. Skill to integrate an interdisciplinary team of professionals to include attorneys, public health specialists, public affairs specialists, biological scientists, environmental engineers, physical scientists, general engineers, community planners, regulators, other governmental officials, and community groups.
PART-TIME OR UNPAID EXPERIENCE: Credit will be given for appropriate unpaid and or part-time work. You must clearly identify the duties and responsibilities in each position held and the total number of hours per week.
VOLUNTEER WORK EXPERIENCE: Refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service Programs (i.e., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student and social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge and skills that can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.Education:IF USING EDUCATION TO QUALIFY: If position has a positive degree requirement or education forms the basis for qualifications, you MUST submit transcriptswith the application. Official transcripts are not required at the time of application; however, if position has a positive degree requirement, qualifying based on education alone or in combination with experience; transcripts must be verified prior to appointment. An accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education must accredit education. Click here to check accreditation.
FOREIGN EDUCATION: Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the requirements. You must show proof the education credentials have been deemed to be at least equivalent to that gained in conventional U.S. education program. It is your responsibility to provide such evidence when applying.Employment Type: OTHER

What U.S. Department Of Defense employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom