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Intern Physics Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

VA · On-site

$143K/yr

... registration as an Engineer Intern (EI), Engineer in Training (EIT)1, or licensure as a ... Degree: physics; or related degree that included at least 24 semester hours in physics. OR B.

OR Current registration as an Engineer Intern (EI), Engineer in Training (EIT), or licensure as a ... physics, chemistry, architecture, computer science, mathematics, hydrology, or geology, may be ...

... or physics: (a) statics, dynamics; (b) strength of materials (stress-strain relationships); (c ... Intern (EI), Engineer in Training (EIT), or licensure as a Professional Engineer (PE) by any State ...

Showing results 41-60

Intern Physics information

See Virginia salary details

$7

$22

$46

How much do intern physics jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for intern physics in Virginia is $22.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.73 and $24.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an intern in physics do?

An intern in physics typically assists with research projects, laboratory experiments, and data analysis under the supervision of experienced physicists. Duties may include setting up experiments, collecting and interpreting data, reviewing scientific literature, and preparing reports or presentations. The internship provides practical experience and exposure to real-world applications of physics concepts, helping students develop technical and analytical skills. Interns may work in academic, government, or industry settings, depending on the focus of the internship.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an intern in physics, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Intern in Physics, you need a solid background in physics concepts, mathematical proficiency, and usually progress towards a relevant degree. Familiarity with data analysis software (such as MATLAB or Python), laboratory equipment, and scientific research methods is often expected. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help interns contribute meaningfully to research projects. These skills are essential for supporting scientific investigations, collaborating with team members, and gaining valuable hands-on experience.

What types of projects or tasks can I expect to work on as a physics intern?

As a Physics Intern, you will often assist with experimental setups, data collection, and analysis under the guidance of experienced physicists. You may be involved in conducting simulations, preparing reports, or supporting research activities in areas such as material science, optics, or quantum mechanics. Collaboration with other interns and team members is common, giving you the opportunity to learn from professionals and contribute to ongoing projects. Your daily responsibilities will likely vary, offering exposure to both theoretical and practical aspects of physics research.

What is the difference between Intern Physics vs Physics Research Assistant?

AspectIntern PhysicsPhysics Research Assistant
Required CredentialsTypically enrolled in a physics or related degree program; some internships may require coursework or GPA standardsUsually holds or is pursuing a bachelor's or master's degree in physics; may require prior research experience
Work EnvironmentEducational settings, laboratories, or research centers; supervised by professionalsResearch labs, universities, or research institutions; more independent research tasks
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutes, tech companies; internships often part of academic programsAcademic research projects, government labs, or private sector R&D; paid or volunteer positions

Intern Physics roles are typically short-term, educational opportunities for students gaining initial research experience. Physics Research Assistants are more advanced, often involved in ongoing research projects, requiring more specialized knowledge and responsibilities.

What are 5 potential jobs for physics?

Physics graduates can pursue careers such as research scientist, data analyst, aerospace engineer, medical physicist, or technical consultant. These roles often require strong analytical skills, proficiency with scientific tools, and a solid understanding of physical principles. Many positions are available in academia, industry, government labs, and technology companies.

Which internship is best for physics students?

The best internship for physics students typically involves research institutions, laboratories, or companies in science and technology sectors that offer hands-on experience in experimental or theoretical physics. Look for internships that provide mentorship, access to advanced tools like simulation software, and opportunities to develop skills in data analysis and programming. These internships can enhance your understanding of physics concepts and improve your employability in research or industry roles.

What are the most commonly searched types of Physics jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Physics jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Intern Physics jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Intern Physics job openings:

Infographic showing various Intern Physics job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,082 per year, or $22.2 per hour.

MECHANICAL ENGINEER

US Department of the Navy

Portsmouth, VA • On-site

$90K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago


United States Navy rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 380 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 49 rated military and defense


Job description

You will serve as a MECHANICAL ENGINEER in the Surface Ship Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Branch (Code 262), of NORFOLK NAVAL SHIPYARD.Qualifications:Your resume must demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience at or equivalent to the GS-11 grade level or pay band in the Federal service or equivalent experience in the private or public sector. Specialized experience must demonstrate the following:
  • Experience in the full range of shipboard mechanical systems and components encompassed by the assigned duties in an organization.
  • Experience evaluating and applying the latest developments and techniques in solving problems not readily treatable by traditional or accepted methods.
  • Experience serving as technical consultant, preparing specifications, and providing direction for the procurement of special material and services for assigned projects.
  • Experience in related engineering fields including electrical and structural in order to permit technical understanding, communication, and cooperation in areas of work interface with personnel of other engineering disciplines.
  • Experience investigating shipboard mechanical system and component malfunctions or faulty conditions.
Additional qualification information can be found from the following Office of Personnel Management website:
https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/#url=List-by-Occupational-Series AND https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/0800/files/all-professional-engineering-positions-0800.pdf
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment.Education:Applicants must meet the following basic education requirements of the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualifications Standards Manual:
Successful completion of a professional engineering degree. To be acceptable, the program must: (1) lead to a bachelor's degree (or higher) in a school of engineering with at least one program accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET); or (2) include differential and integral calculus and courses (more advanced than first-year physics and chemistry) in five of the following seven areas of engineering science or physics: (a) statics, dynamics; (b) strength of materials (stress-strain relationships); (c) fluid mechanics, hydraulics; (d) thermodynamics; (e) electrical fields and circuits; (f) nature and properties of materials (relating particle and aggregate structure to properties); and (g) any other comparable area of fundamental engineering science or physics, such as optics, heat transfer, soil mechanics, or electronics. Such education must demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to do the work of the position.
OR
Current registration as an Engineer Intern (EI), Engineer in Training (EIT), or licensure as a Professional Engineer (PE) by any State, the District of Columbia, Guam, or Puerto Rico. Absent other means of qualifying under this standard, those applicants who achieved such registration by means other than written test (e.g., State grandfather or eminence provisions) are eligible only for positions that are within or closely related to the specialty field of their registration For more information about EI and EIT registration requirements, please visit the National Society of Professional Engineers website at: http://www.nspe.org
OR
Evidence of having successfully passed the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) examination or any other written test required for professional registration by an engineering licensure board in the various States, the District of Columbia, Guam, and Puerto Rico The FE examination is not administered by the U. S. Office of Personnel Management. For more information, please visit: http://www.nspe.org/Licensure/HowtoGetLicensed/index.html.
OR
Successful completion of at least 60 semester hours of courses in the physical, mathematical, and engineering sciences and in engineering that included the courses specified in the basic requirements under paragraph A (above). The courses must be fully acceptable toward meeting the requirements of an engineering program as described in paragraph A (above)
OR
Successful completion of a curriculum leading to a bachelor's degree in an appropriate scientific field, e.g., engineering technology, physics, chemistry, architecture, computer science, mathematics, hydrology, or geology, may be accepted in lieu of a bachelor's degree in engineering, provided the applicant has had at least one year of professional engineering experience acquired under professional engineering supervision and guidance. Ordinarily, there should be either an established plan of intensive training to develop professional engineering competence, or several years of prior professional engineering-type experience, e.g., in interdisciplinary positions.
Employment Type: OTHER

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Industry

National security, national security and international affairs, public safety statistics centers and offices, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US

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