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Manager Research Physicist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Engineering Manager R&D

Aliso Viejo, CA · On-site

$135K - $177K/yr

... launch products, research new ideas, and manage overall design history. Focus is on both ... Physics, Chemistry, Engineering, or any other related field. * Minimum six (6) years of relevant ...

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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 Sep 4, 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 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.

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 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,805 per year, or $45.6 per hour.

$83K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

NIST's Time & Frequency Division is hiring an Atomic Clock Research Physicist to develop and improve atomic frequency standards, advance microwave and optical clock technologies, and contribute to the UTC(NIST) atomic clock timescale.
This notice is issued under direct-hire authority to recruit new talent to occupations for which NIST has a severe shortage of candidates.

Qualifications:Basic Requirements:
  1. Degree: physics; or related degree that included at least 24 semester hours in physics; OR
  2. 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 1 or 2 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
    • sound
You must also meet one of the following additional requirements:
1. One year of specialized experience equivalent to at least GS-9 (ZP-II at NIST). Specialized experience is defined as experience in the laser cooling or trapping of atoms, molecules, or ions
OR
2. Master's or equivalent graduate degree
OR
3. A combination of graduate education and specialized experience.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (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. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
The qualification requirements in this vacancy announcement are based on the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards Handbook.
If requesting reconsideration of your qualification determination, please refer to the following site: Applicant ReconsiderationEducation:This position has an education requirement. Transcripts must be submitted to validate that the education requirement has been met. Unofficial transcripts will be accepted in the application package. However, an official copy will be required before a final offer of employment.
Use of foreign education for qualifications. An accredited organization must evaluate education completed outside of the U.S. to ensure that it is comparable to education received in accredited institutions in the U.S. Click here to view a listing of accredited organizations from the Department of Education's website. A copy of the foreign education evaluation (containing the results with course-by-course listing) is required with your application.Employment Type: OTHER