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Nuclear Physics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Staff Engineer/Physicist 2 - Nuclear Fusion Research

Omaha, NE ยท On-site

$94K - $112K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Ph.D. or better in Physics or Engineering in relevant field. * 5-10 years of relevant research experience in applications of nuclear physics * In-depth understanding of high temperature plasma ...

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Nuclear Physics information

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$39K

$115.1K

$154.5K

How much do nuclear physics jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for nuclear physics in the United States is $115,106.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $109,500.00 and $131,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by nuclear physicists in experimental research settings?

Nuclear physicists in experimental research often face challenges related to the complexity and precision required in experiments, such as maintaining the safety of high-energy equipment and minimizing experimental errors. They must also work with highly sensitive instruments and analyze large data sets, which requires strong technical skills and attention to detail. Collaboration is key, as projects typically involve multidisciplinary teams including engineers, technicians, and other scientists. Managing time effectively between laboratory work, data analysis, and reporting results is essential for success in this role.

What is the difference between Nuclear Physics vs Nuclear Engineering?

AspectNuclear PhysicsNuclear Engineering
Required CredentialsPhysics degree, often with a PhD in physics or related fieldEngineering degree, often with a bachelor's or master's in nuclear engineering
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, government agenciesPower plants, medical facilities, research reactors
Industry UsageFundamental research, academic institutionsDesign, operation, and safety of nuclear systems

Nuclear Physics focuses on understanding atomic nuclei and fundamental particles, often in research settings. Nuclear Engineering applies this knowledge to develop and operate nuclear systems, such as reactors and medical equipment. While both fields require a strong background in physics and related credentials, their work environments and industry applications differ significantly.

What can you do with a nuclear physics degree?

A nuclear physics degree prepares individuals for careers in research, nuclear energy, medical physics, and radiation safety. Graduates often work in laboratories, power plants, or healthcare settings, utilizing skills in data analysis, modeling, and instrumentation. Advanced positions may require additional certifications or advanced degrees.

What jobs are there in nuclear physics?

Jobs in nuclear physics include research scientist, nuclear engineer, radiation safety officer, and medical physicist. These roles often require advanced degrees, knowledge of nuclear reactions, and skills in data analysis, laboratory techniques, and safety protocols. Employment can be found in research institutions, government agencies, healthcare facilities, and energy companies.

Are nuclear physicists in high demand?

Nuclear physicists are in moderate demand, primarily in research institutions, government agencies, and the energy sector. Employment opportunities depend on funding, technological advancements, and government projects, with strong skills in data analysis, programming, and laboratory techniques being valuable.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a nuclear physicist?

To thrive as a Nuclear Physicist, you need a solid background in physics, mathematics, and data analysis, typically supported by a PhD in nuclear or particle physics. Familiarity with advanced laboratory equipment, simulation software, and programming languages such as Python or C++ is often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help nuclear physicists stand out in research and collaborative environments. These skills and qualities are vital for conducting accurate experiments, interpreting complex data, and advancing scientific understanding in the field.

What is nuclear physics?

Nuclear physics is a branch of physics that studies the structure, properties, and behavior of atomic nuclei and the fundamental forces and particles involved. It explores phenomena such as radioactivity, nuclear reactions, and the interactions between protons and neutrons within the nucleus. Nuclear physics has many practical applications, including nuclear energy production, medical imaging (such as PET scans), and cancer treatments (radiation therapy). Researchers in this field use both experimental and theoretical approaches to understand nuclear matter and its role in the universe.
More about Nuclear Physics jobs

What cities are hiring for Nuclear Physics jobs?

Cities with the most Nuclear Physics job openings:

What states have the most Nuclear Physics jobs?

States with the most job openings for Nuclear Physics jobs include:

Infographic showing various Nuclear Physics job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $115,106 per year, or $55.3 per hour.

Particle Physics Expert - Computational Specialist

Mercor

San Francisco, CA โ€ข Remote

$70 - $100/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

About the job

Mercor connects elite creative and technical talent with leading AI research labs. Headquartered in San Francisco, our investors include Benchmark, General Catalyst, Peter Thiel, Adam D'Angelo, Larry Summers, and Jack Dorsey.

Position: Particle & Nuclear Physics Expert
Type: Contract
Compensation: $70–$100/hour
Location: Remote
Commitment: 15–20 hours/week

Role Responsibilities

  • Design challenging computational problems to evaluate AI capabilities in Particle & Nuclear Physics.
  • Develop problems requiring skilled use of scikit-hep and related HEP Python tools for data analysis and simulations.
  • Test and refine problems against state-of-the-art AI models to achieve target difficulty.
  • Collaborate on problem-solving strategies that involve strategic planning and efficient data interpretation.
  • Work independently to refine problem designs based on feedback and testing outcomes.
  • Utilize Linux/terminal environments and remote compute sandboxes effectively.

Qualifications

Must-Have

  • Graduate-level training in a relevant STEM field (MS, PhD, or equivalent research experience).
  • Proficiency with at least one scientific software library, demonstrated through research publications or professional work.
  • Strong Python skills for writing problem setups and solution validators.
  • Ability to work independently and refine designs based on feedback.
  • Comfortable in a Linux/terminal environment.

Preferred

  • Experience across multiple domains or tools.
  • Familiarity with benchmark or evaluation design.
  • Background in scientific teaching or exam/problem-set design.
  • Experience with computational reproducibility and containerized environments.

Application Process (Takes 20–30 mins to complete)

  • Upload resume
  • AI interview based on your resume
  • Submit form

Resources & Support

  • For details about the interview process and platform information, please check: https://talent.docs.mercor.com/welcome
  • For any help or support, reach out to: support@mercor.com

PS: Our team reviews applications daily. Please complete your AI interview and application steps to be considered for this opportunity.