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Mathematical Physicist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$74K/yr

... mathematics, and/or calculus. OR 2. Combination of education and experience -- courses as shown in A above, plus appropriate experience or other education; or certification as a health physicist by ...

$74K/yr

... mathematics, and/or calculus. OR 2. Combination of education and experience -- courses as shown in A above, plus appropriate experience or other education; or certification as a health physicist by ...

$74K/yr

... mathematics, and/or calculus. OR 2. Combination of education and experience -- courses as shown in A above, plus appropriate experience or other education; or certification as a health physicist by ...

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Mathematical Physicist information

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$39.5K

$94.8K

$226.5K

How much do mathematical physicist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for mathematical 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Mathematical Physicist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Mathematical Physicist, you need advanced knowledge of mathematics and physics, typically supported by a Ph.D. in a related field. Familiarity with computational modeling software, programming languages (such as Python or MATLAB), and mathematical analysis tools is standard. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving ability, and effective collaboration skills help you tackle complex theoretical challenges and work within interdisciplinary teams. These competencies are vital for developing new models, interpreting physical phenomena, and advancing scientific understanding.

What is the difference between Mathematical Physicist vs Theoretical Physicist?

AspectMathematical PhysicistTheoretical Physicist
CredentialsAdvanced degrees in physics or mathematics, often PhDSimilar advanced degrees, often PhD in physics
Work EnvironmentResearch institutions, universities, labsResearch institutions, universities, labs
Industry UsageFocus on mathematical models and formal theoriesFocus on developing and testing physical theories
Search & ComparisonOften compared for their emphasis on math vs physical conceptsCommonly compared for their focus on physical phenomena

Mathematical Physicists and Theoretical Physicists both hold advanced degrees and work in research environments. The key difference lies in their focus: Mathematical Physicists emphasize the mathematical foundations of physical theories, while Theoretical Physicists focus on developing and testing physical models. Both roles are essential in advancing our understanding of physics, often overlapping but distinct in their approach.

What are mathematical physicists?

Mathematical physicists are professionals who use advanced mathematical methods to solve problems in physics and develop new theories about the physical universe. They work at the intersection of mathematics and physics, creating models, analyzing physical phenomena, and sometimes proving theorems that underlie physical laws. Their work is fundamental to understanding complex concepts in areas such as quantum mechanics, relativity, and statistical mechanics. Mathematical physicists may work in academic research, teaching, or in industries that require high-level problem-solving skills.

What are the most common collaborative projects for mathematical physicists within research institutions?

Mathematical physicists frequently collaborate on interdisciplinary projects with theoretical physicists, applied mathematicians, and computational scientists. These projects often involve developing new mathematical models to describe physical phenomena, analyzing complex systems, or contributing to the design of experiments. Collaboration typically takes place in research teams or academic groups, where mathematical physicists contribute their expertise to advance understanding in areas like quantum mechanics, statistical mechanics, or general relativity. Joint seminars, grant proposals, and co-authored publications are common aspects of these collaborations.
More about Mathematical Physicist jobs
What cities are hiring for Mathematical Physicist jobs? Cities with the most Mathematical Physicist job openings:
What states have the most Mathematical Physicist jobs? States with the most job openings for Mathematical Physicist jobs include:
Infographic showing various Mathematical Physicist job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,805 per year, or $45.6 per hour.
Health Physicist

Health Physicist

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

Holloman Air Force Base, NM • On-site

$74K/yr

Other

Posted 16 days ago


U.S. Department Of Defense rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 518 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th 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 Positions, Group Coverage Qualification Standard for Professional and Scientific Positions.
BASIC REQUIREMENT OR INDIVIDUAL OCCUPATIONAL REQUIREMENT:
1. Degree: natural science or engineering that included at least 30 semester hours in health physics, engineering, radiological science, chemistry, physics, biology, mathematics, and/or calculus.
OR
2. Combination of education and experience --
courses as shown in A above, plus appropriate experience or other education; or certification as a health physicist by the American Board of Health Physics, plus appropriate experience and other education that provided an understanding of sciences applicable to health physics comparable to that described in paragraph A.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: In addition to meeting the basic requirement above, to qualify for this position you must also meet the qualification requirements listed below.
GS-11: Applicants must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience at the next lower grade GS-09, or equivalent in other pay systems. Examples of specialized experience includes performing environmental physical science, environmental engineering, or health physics duties; applying standard practices of related disciples as they relate to health physics or engineering functions.
GS-12: Applicants must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience at the next lower grade GS-11, or equivalent in other pay systems. Examples of specialized experience includes conducting reviews and ensures laboratory radiochemistry procedures are compliant with regulations and license requirements; developing and implementing laboratory training programs and conduct classes.
GS-13: Applicants must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience at the next lower grade GS-12, or equivalent in other pay systems. Examples of specialized experience includes performing scientific and technical expert in the areas of chemical, biological, radiological effects on response operations; collaborating projects and coordinating work with others; attending meetings and conferences and presenting technical papers.
GS-14: Applicants must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience at the next lower grade GS-13, or equivalent in other pay systems. Examples of specialized experience includes providing technical health physics expertise in all areas; supervising the licensing actions; reviewing and revising the existing policy guidance directives to ensure compliance applicable to federal radiation related regulations.
GS-15:Applicants must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience at the next lower grade GS-14, or equivalent in other pay systems. Examples of specialized experience includes developing fundamental approaches and applying broad health physicist expertise to identify adverse health impacts; providing professional and expert technical direction and assessment in all areas of health physics.
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/health-physics-series-1306/
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 health physics principles, practices, techniques and procedures to effectively perform project development, execution, training and advisory services. Knowledge of applicable Federal, State, and local laws, regulations, and other guidance to make decisions and recommendations concerning assigned and/or integration principles and practices; and health, safety, and security practices.
  2. Skill to integrate in an interdisciplinary team of professionals to include public health specialists, physical scientists, biological scientists, environmental engineers, regulators, and other governmental officials and community groups. Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, clearly, concisely, and with technical accuracy. Communicate with a technical and lay community which may be either supportive or antagonistic.
  3. Knowledge and skill required to resolve environmental problems that require the investigation of radiation contamination or other questionable conditions. Ability to assist in identifying problems and provide necessary technical support to resolve issues. Must be capable of assisting with economic analysis to determine the feasibility of acquisitions and determine the most economical means of satisfying organizational and regulatory requirements.
  4. Knowledge and skill to accomplish environmental sampling for analysis and maintain contact with laboratory that is providing analytical services. Ability to interpret analytical results to determine proper disposal method.
  5. Ability to track radiation hazards, controls and evaluations in recognized Occupational and Environmental Health database.
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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