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Military Physics Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

$49K/yr

Physics; or related degree that included at least 24 semester hours in physics. You may qualify if ... military credit, etc. you cannot qualify based on GPA. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES ( KSAs

Physics; or related degree that included at least 24 semester hours in physics. You may qualify if ... military credit, etc. you cannot qualify based on GPA. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES ( KSAs

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Military Physics information

See Virginia salary details

$10.9K

$60.6K

$93.7K

How much do military physics jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for military physics in Virginia is $60,635.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,600.00 and $63,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is military physics?

Military physics is a specialized branch of physics focused on the application of physical principles and scientific research to defense technologies and military operations. This field encompasses areas such as ballistics, nuclear physics, materials science, radar, and communication systems. Professionals in military physics work to develop, test, and improve technologies like weaponry, protective gear, surveillance tools, and navigation systems. Their expertise is crucial for advancing defense capabilities and ensuring national security.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a military physicist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Military Physicist, you generally need a strong background in physics or engineering, often with an advanced degree and security clearance. Familiarity with modeling and simulation software, ballistics analysis tools, and specialized defense technologies is typical, along with knowledge of military protocols. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and making high-stakes decisions. These competencies ensure the development and application of advanced technologies critical to national defense and operational success.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in military physics roles?

Professionals in military physics often encounter challenges such as working with highly classified or sensitive information, which requires strict adherence to security protocols. Additionally, projects may have tight deadlines and require rapid adaptation to evolving defense needs or emerging technologies. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—including engineers, analysts, and military personnel—is common, making effective communication skills essential. The fast-paced and high-stakes environment can be demanding, but it also offers opportunities for impactful work and professional growth.

What is the difference between Military Physics vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectMilitary PhysicsMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or master's in physics, specialized military clearanceBachelor's or master's in mechanical engineering, professional licensure often required
Work EnvironmentDefense labs, military facilities, research institutionsManufacturing plants, design firms, industrial settings
Employer & Industry UsageMilitary agencies, defense contractors, government researchPrivate companies, manufacturing, aerospace, automotive
Common Search & ComparisonMilitary PhysicsMechanical Engineer

Military Physics focuses on applying physics principles to defense and military technology, often requiring security clearances and working within defense environments. Mechanical Engineers design and develop mechanical systems across various industries, with a broader application scope. While both roles involve engineering principles, Military Physics is specialized in defense-related research, whereas Mechanical Engineering covers a wider range of mechanical systems and industries.

What are popular job titles related to Military Physics jobs in Virginia?

For Military Physics jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Military Physics jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Military Physics jobs in Virginia are:

Infographic showing various Military Physics job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,635 per year, or $29.2 per hour.

$62K/yr

Part-time

Re-posted 24 days ago


Job description

Click on "Learn more about this agency" button below to view Eligibilities being considered and other IMPORTANT information.
The primary purpose of this position is to perform work in physics and the physical sciences in order to create and evaluate solutions for physics-based problems, methods, conditions, and issues enabling the development of quantitative targeting recommendations/effects assessments supporting warfare planning options.
Qualifications:Experience requirements are described in the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards for General Schedule Positions, Group Coverage Qualification Standard for Professional and Scientific Positions. Due to the use of 120-day rosters, this period of experience may be completed within 120 days of the closing date of this announcement.
BASIC REQUIREMENT OR INDIVIDUAL OCCUPATIONAL REQUIREMENT: 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 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, to qualify for this position you must also meet the qualification requirements listed below:
DR-1310-01
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: Applicants must have at least one year (52 weeks) of specialized experience at the next lower grade GS-05 or equivalent in other pay systems. Specialized experience is scientific experience assisting with the development of mathematical models used in support of identifying solutions to physics-based problems; and experience communicating technical findings through reports, briefings, and/or collaboration with multidisciplinary teams.
DR-1310-02
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE:
Applicants must have at least one year (52 weeks) of specialized experience at the next lower grade GS-11/DR-01 or equivalent in other pay systems. Specialized experience is scientific experience analyzing complex networks, systems, and/or components; developing systems characterizations and/or mathematical models in support of solutions to physics based problems; and experience collaborating with teams to deliver analytical products, improve methodologies, and/or influence decision-making.
NOTE: Due to the use of 120-day rosters, this period of experience may be completed within 120 days of the closing date of this announcement.
OR
EDUCATION:
Successfully completed 1 full year of graduate level education in a field which demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to do the work of the position. -OR -Successfully completed a bachelor's degree with Superior Academic Achievement. Note: You must submit a copy of official transcripts.
OR
COMBINATION OF EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION:
Combinations of successfully completed post 4-year course of study leading to a bachelor's degree and specialized experience directly related to the work of the position as outlined above that meets the requirements of the position. Note: You must submit a copy of official transcripts.
COMPETENCIES: Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the following areas:Problem Solving, Communication, Technology Management, Teamwork and Leadership
Ideal Candidate:
  • Highly skilled and experienced professional with a strong background in engineering mechanics and physics. Proven ability to perform complex engineering/scientific work with the predictive effects of energetics, kinetics, and various other damage mechanisms. Experience and knowledge of model development, weapon testing, and capability development would be sought.
  • Demonstrated ability to prepare, produce, and deliver timely, relevant, and technically accurate analytical products and recommendations to military customers.
  • Experience in exploring, developing, evaluating, and/or operationalizing new methodologies, technologies, or tools to enhance organizational capabilities in weapons effects prediction.
  • Applied knowledge of weapons systems and capabilities
  • Knowledge of simulation techniques including Monte Carlo and associated scripting ability to aid in automation
  • Ability to analyze information, extrapolate where data is missing, make correct inferences and conclusions, and use sound judgment to generate and evaluate alternatives.
  • Knowledge of Department of War military command structure, missions, and programs, national security issues, trends, and topics of interest.

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