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Particle Physicist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The successful candidate will join the Radiation and Energetic Particle Physics Team in the Applied Plasma Physics Division under the guidance of the Lead Scientist. * Develop and refine diagnostic ...

Design and optimize particle accelerator systems and beamlines for muon production * Develop ... PhD in Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field, preferably with a focus on accelerator ...

Accelerator Physicist

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$110K - $150K/yr

Design and optimize particle accelerator systems and beamlines for muon production * Develop ... PhD in Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field, preferably with a focus on accelerator ...

Operate particle accelerators and optimize their performance. * Assist with troubleshooting and maintenance of the accelerator systems, interacting with quality and service engineers. * Support ...

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$39.5K

$94.8K

$226.5K

How much do particle physicist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for particle 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 jobs can you do with particle physics?

Particle physicists can work in research institutions, universities, government laboratories, and private industry, often involved in experimental design, data analysis, and theoretical modeling. They may also find roles in data science, software development, and engineering that require strong analytical and technical skills, with familiarity in programming languages and scientific tools. Advanced degrees and specialized knowledge are typically required for these positions.

What is the difference between Particle Physicist vs Nuclear Physicist?

AspectParticle PhysicistNuclear Physicist
Required credentialsPhysics degree, PhD often preferredPhysics or nuclear engineering degree, PhD often preferred
Work environmentResearch labs, universities, large collidersNuclear facilities, research reactors, laboratories
Industry usageHigh-energy physics, fundamental particlesNuclear energy, radiation, nuclear safety

Particle Physicists focus on understanding fundamental particles and forces at high-energy colliders, often working in large research facilities. Nuclear Physicists study atomic nuclei, nuclear reactions, and applications in energy and medicine. While both roles require advanced physics knowledge and similar credentials, their work environments and research focus differ significantly.

How much does a particle physicist make?

Particle physicists typically earn a median annual salary of around $100,000 to $130,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Salaries can vary widely based on whether they work in academia, government labs, or private industry, and advanced degrees like a Ph.D. are often required for higher-paying research positions.

What does a particle physicist do?

A particle physicist studies the fundamental particles and forces that make up matter and the universe. They conduct experiments using large particle accelerators, analyze data, and develop theories to understand subatomic phenomena. This role often requires strong skills in physics, mathematics, and programming, along with advanced degrees such as a Ph.D.

Is particle physics a good career?

Particle physics is a specialized field within physics that involves research at universities, laboratories, and research institutions, often requiring advanced degrees such as a Ph.D. It offers opportunities for research, data analysis, and collaboration but typically involves competitive job markets and long-term education commitments. Success in this career depends on strong analytical skills, technical knowledge, and dedication to scientific inquiry.
More about Particle Physicist jobs
What cities are hiring for Particle Physicist jobs? Cities with the most Particle Physicist job openings:
What states have the most Particle Physicist jobs? States with the most job openings for Particle Physicist jobs include:

Research Physicist in Experimental Particle 2026

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Carnegie Mellon University rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

54th of 541 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Description
The Department of Physics at Carnegie Mellon University invites applications for a Research Physicist position in experimental particle physics. The successful applicant will contribute to searches for new physics with the Compact Muon Solenoid (CMS) experiment at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) at CERN and to the CMS high granularity calorimeter (HGCAL) upgrade project for the High-Luminosity LHC, and will also have the opportunity to contribute to the proposed Light Dark Matter eXperiment (LDMX) at SLAC. Candidates with expertise in machine learning applications for particle physics are strongly preferred. The initial appointment will be for one year starting in August 2026, with possible extensions for a second and third year. Information about the CMU Physics Department can be found at http://www.cmu.edu/physics.
Qualifications
Applicants must hold a Ph.D. in Physics by the time of appointment.
Application Instructions
Applications, including a curriculum vitae, publication list, and statement of research experience and interests, should be submitted through this Interfolio site.

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