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Manager Research Physicist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$74K/yr

Consisted of leading and managing complex, challenging, and innovative technical activities and ... research and development on ionosphere physics and space weather application. 2. Knowledge of ...

$74K/yr

Consisted of leading and managing complex, challenging, and innovative technical activities and ... research and development on ionosphere physics and space weather application. 2. Knowledge of ...

As our Product Research Physicist focusing on the control of neutral-atom systems, you will own the ... Strong organizational and time-management skills; a self-driven individual with a high level of ...

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Manager Research Physicist information

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$39.5K

$94.8K

$226.5K

How much do manager research physicist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for manager research physicist in the United States is $94,805.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,000.00 and $112,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Manager Research Physicist do?

A Manager Research Physicist oversees and coordinates scientific research projects in the field of physics, guiding teams of physicists and other researchers. They are responsible for developing research strategies, securing funding, and ensuring that projects meet scientific and organizational goals. Additionally, they interpret experimental data, publish findings, and often collaborate with other departments or institutions. The role requires both advanced technical expertise and strong leadership skills to drive innovation and successful project outcomes.

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

To thrive as a Manager Research Physicist, you need a strong background in physics or related sciences, typically with a Ph.D. and experience in research leadership. Familiarity with advanced laboratory equipment, data analysis software (such as MATLAB or Python), and scientific publication processes is essential. Strong project management, communication, and team leadership skills set exceptional candidates apart. These abilities ensure the effective direction of research projects, successful collaboration, and innovative scientific contributions.

What is the difference between Manager Research Physicist vs Research Physicist?

AspectManager Research PhysicistResearch Physicist
CredentialsTypically requires a PhD in Physics and leadership experienceUsually requires a PhD in Physics or related field
Work EnvironmentLeads teams, manages projects, and collaborates with managementFocuses on conducting experiments, data analysis, and research
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in R&D departments of tech, aerospace, and energy companiesFound in academia, government labs, and industry research divisions

The main difference is that the Manager Research Physicist oversees research teams and projects, combining technical expertise with leadership, while the Research Physicist primarily conducts scientific research and experiments. Both roles require advanced degrees, but the managerial position emphasizes team management and strategic planning.

What are some common challenges faced by Manager Research Physicists when leading multidisciplinary teams?

Manager Research Physicists often oversee teams composed of scientists, engineers, and technical staff from diverse backgrounds. One of the main challenges is effectively coordinating communication and aligning goals across different disciplines to ensure successful project outcomes. Additionally, balancing administrative responsibilities with active research involvement can be demanding. Strong leadership and interpersonal skills are essential for fostering collaboration, resolving conflicts, and maintaining motivation within the team.
More about Manager Research Physicist jobs
What cities are hiring for Manager Research Physicist jobs? Cities with the most Manager Research Physicist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Research Physicist jobs? The most popular types of Research Physicist jobs are:
What states have the most Manager Research Physicist jobs? States with the most job openings for Manager Research Physicist jobs include:
Infographic showing various Manager Research Physicist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 84% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,805 per year, or $45.6 per hour.
Research Physicist

Research Physicist

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

Joint Base San Antonio (randolph), TX

$74K/yr

Other

Posted 12 days ago


U.S. Department Of Defense rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 529 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

25th of 46 rated military and defense


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 REQUIREMENTS:
Degree: physics; or related degree that included at least 24 semester hours in physics.
OR
Combination of education and experience -- courses equivalent to a major in physics totaling at least 24 semester hours, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
In either A or B above, the courses must have included a fundamental course in general physics and, in addition, courses in any two of the following: electricity and magnetism, heat, light, mechanics, modern physics, and sound.
In addition to meeting the basic requirement above, applicants must also meet the additional requirements as reflected below:
For GS-11- At least one year of specialized experience at the next lower grade (GS-09) or equivalent. Experience that equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform successfully the duties of the position, and that is typically in or related to the work of the position to be filled. To be creditable, specialized experience must have been equivalent to at least the next lower grade level in the normal line of progression for the occupation in the organization. And consist of plans, organizes, directs and participates in experimental and theoretical research into the basic mechanisms associated with the emission, absorption and transmission of optical radiation in the natural atmosphere. OR Three years of progressively higher level graduate education leading to a Ph.D. in a related field.
For GS-12 - At least one year of specialized experience at the next lower grade (GS-11) or equivalent. Experience that equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform successfully the duties that consists of conduction in-house technical activities and/or provides contract technical direction to programs of considerable breadth, diversity and complexity with minimal oversight.
For GS-13- Atleast one year of specialized experience at the next lower grade (GS-12) or equivalent. Experience that equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform successfully the duties of the position, that consist of designs, implements and tests sophisticated forecast models and computer algorithms to be operationally used in conjunction with space weather applications and other missions; participates in highly technical program reviews; develops and uses computer models to analyze data from satellites and ground based instruments.
For GS-14- At least one year of specialized experience at the next lower grade (GS-13) or equivalent. Experience that equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform successfully the duties of the position, and that is typically in or related to the work of the position to be filled. Consisted of leading and managing complex, challenging, and innovative technical activities and programs in field of upper atmosphere and it interaction and impact to the space systems; prepares and presents technical briefings and documentation; guides the research, technical and/or programmatic, and administrative efforts of individuals or teams.
For GS-15- At least one year of specialized experience at the next lower grade (GS-14) or equivalent. Experience that equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform successfully the duties of the position, and that is typically in or related to the work of the position to be filled. Consists of being responsible for formulating and directing a research program in atmospheric and terrestrial backgrounds for space based sensors; establishes research priorities and funding levels, assembles a team of co-investigators; reviews scientific literature, converses on and coordinates issues with the international scientific community and directs exploratory research.
Click on the following link to view occupational requirements for this position:
https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/1300/physics-series-1310/

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs):
1. Knowledge, skill and ability to independently conduct basic and applied research and development on ionosphere physics and space weather application.
2. Knowledge of optical and laser technology in order to investigate the absorption of light and other radiation by solid and liquid particles and molecules in space.
3. Advanced knowledge of and ability to apply theoretical and experimental investigations in areas of measurement sand modeling of particulate and molecular properties. In particular, performs modeling and data analysis of optical scattering and transmission in order to develop improved models of particulate and molecular effects on AF and DoD systems.
4. Ability to devise, develop and write software to calibrate and analyze spectral experimental data. Must be capable of utilizing modern programming techniques and languages. Must be fluent in scientific writing and possess a thorough appreciation of the scientific method and able to converse with authorizes in field project own ideas and recommendations and defend his ideas to higher authority.
5. Knowledge, ability and skill in written and oral communication for technical reports, briefings, coordination and program management.
6. Ability to measure atmospheric phenomena with appropriate scientific equipment and instrumentation.
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

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