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Particle Physics Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Fermilab is America's premier laboratory for particle physics and accelerator research, funded by the U.S. Department of Energy. They are seeking a Senior Network Analyst to plan, design, and deploy ...

Engineering Physicist

Batavia, IL · On-site

$88.80K - $116.90K/yr

Fermilab is America's premier laboratory for particle physics and accelerator research, funded by the U.S. Department of Energy. We support discovery science experiments in Illinois and locations ...

Engineering Physicist 1

Batavia, IL · On-site

$70.80K - $93.20K/yr

Fermilab is America's premier laboratory for particle physics and accelerator research, funded by the U.S. Department of Energy. We support discovery science experiments in Illinois and locations ...

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... particle physics. The experienced designer will operate under limited supervision to prepare mechanical designs and drawings utilizing NX1980 and Teamcenter, correctly applying the ASME Y14.5-M-1994 ...

Hardware Machine Learning Engineer

Chicago, IL

$127.20K - $167.90K/yr

Background in latency-sensitive or resource-constrained systems including high-frequency trading, particle physics data acquisition, real-time signal processing, or similar domains * Familiarity with ...

Ability to explain Bernoulli principle, Coulomb law, Faraday law, and wave-particle duality while preparing students for the AP Physics 2 examination. * Conceptual Teaching & Problem-Solving: Skilled ...

Ability to explain Bernoulli principle, Coulomb law, Faraday law, and wave-particle duality while preparing students for the AP Physics 2 examination. * Conceptual Teaching & Problem-Solving: Skilled ...

Ability to explain Bernoulli principle, Coulomb law, Faraday law, and wave-particle duality while preparing students for the AP Physics 2 examination. * Conceptual Teaching & Problem-Solving: Skilled ...

Ability to explain Bernoulli principle, Coulomb law, Faraday law, and wave-particle duality while preparing students for the AP Physics 2 examination. * Conceptual Teaching & Problem-Solving: Skilled ...

Ability to explain Bernoulli principle, Coulomb law, Faraday law, and wave-particle duality while preparing students for the AP Physics 2 examination. * Conceptual Teaching & Problem-Solving: Skilled ...

Ability to explain Bernoulli principle, Coulomb law, Faraday law, and wave-particle duality while preparing students for the AP Physics 2 examination. * Conceptual Teaching & Problem-Solving: Skilled ...

Ability to explain Bernoulli principle, Coulomb law, Faraday law, and wave-particle duality while preparing students for the AP Physics 2 examination. * Conceptual Teaching & Problem-Solving: Skilled ...

Ability to explain Bernoulli principle, Coulomb law, Faraday law, and wave-particle duality while preparing students for the AP Physics 2 examination. * Conceptual Teaching & Problem-Solving: Skilled ...

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Showing results 1-20

Particle Physics information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$11.3K

$63.1K

$97.4K

How much do particle physics jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for particle physics in Chicago, IL is $63,053.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,400.00 and $66,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Particle Physicist, you need a strong background in physics and mathematics, usually demonstrated by a Ph.D. in particle physics or a closely related field. Proficiency with programming languages (such as Python or C++), data analysis tools, and experience with particle detectors or accelerator systems is typically required. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective collaboration are vital soft skills for designing experiments and interpreting complex data. These skills and qualities are essential for advancing scientific understanding and contributing to collaborative research in a highly technical and innovative field.

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

Particle physicists working in experimental settings often face challenges such as managing vast amounts of complex data from particle detectors and collaborating within large, international teams. The work frequently involves troubleshooting sophisticated equipment, adhering to strict safety protocols, and adapting to rapidly evolving technologies. Additionally, long-term experiments may require patience and persistence due to the lengthy data collection and analysis phases. Effective communication and strong teamwork skills are essential, as findings must be coordinated and shared with global collaborators.

What do particle physicists do?

Particle physicists study the fundamental particles that make up matter and the forces that govern their interactions. They conduct experiments using particle accelerators, develop theoretical models, and analyze data to uncover the basic building blocks of the universe. Their work helps us understand phenomena such as the origin of mass, the nature of dark matter, and the fundamental laws of physics. Particle physicists often collaborate in large international teams and may contribute to breakthroughs in technology and medicine through their research.

What is the difference between Particle Physics vs Nuclear Physics?

AspectParticle PhysicsNuclear Physics
Required CredentialsPhysics degree, PhD often preferred, specialized training in subatomic particlesPhysics or nuclear engineering degree, often with specialized nuclear coursework
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, particle accelerators, universitiesNuclear reactors, research facilities, laboratories
Industry UsageFundamental research, CERN, particle detector developmentNuclear energy, medical imaging, nuclear safety

Particle Physics focuses on understanding the fundamental particles and forces of the universe, often working with large accelerators like CERN. Nuclear Physics studies the properties and reactions of atomic nuclei, with applications in energy and medicine. While both fields require a physics background, their research environments and industry applications differ significantly.

What are the most commonly searched types of Particle Physics jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Particle Physics jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Particle Physics jobs in Chicago, IL? For Particle Physics jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Particle Physics jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Particle Physics jobs in Chicago, IL are:
Infographic showing various Particle Physics job openings in Chicago, IL as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,053 per year, or $30.3 per hour.
Postdoctoral Research Scholar - General Particle Theory

Postdoctoral Research Scholar - General Particle Theory

Argonne National Laboratory

Lemont, IL

$72.88K - $121.47K/yr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

The Particle Theory Group in the High Energy Physics Division at Argonne National Laboratory invites applications for one or more Postdoctoral Research Associate positions in theoretical particle physics. The search is broad, covering all areas of theoretical particle physics, with particular emphasis on particle physics phenomenology.

Members in the Particle Theory Group work on physics within and beyond the Standard Model, including effective field theories and perturbative QCD, phenomenology at current and future colliders, as well as emerging areas in Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Quantum Information and Quantum Simulation.

The successful candidate will be expected to carry out an independent and collaborative research program in particle theory that strengthens and complements existing efforts in the group and the division.

The Argonne High Energy Physics Division provides a vibrant and collaborative research environment. In addition to a strong theory program, the Division has an extensive experimental portfolio, including participation in the ATLAS experiment at the Energy Frontier; the DUNE, Mu2e, and g-2 experiments at the Intensity Frontier; and SPT-3G, LSST DESC, DES, and the Roman Space Telescope in the Cosmic Frontier.

The Division is also engaged in physics preparations for the Electron-Ion Collider (EIC), the development of advanced accelerator technologies (such as the Argonne Wakefield Accelerator), and novel superconducting detector technologies. There is an additional theoretical effort in computational cosmology.

The initial appointment is for two years, with the possibility of extension to a third year, contingent on performance and available funding.

Position Requirements

  • Recent or soon-to-be-completed PhD (within the last 0-5 years) in physics or a closely related field
  • Ability to model Argonne's core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity, and teamwork

Application materials should include:

  • Cover Letter
  • Curriculum Vitae, including a list of publications
  • Research statement outlining interests in relation to the advertised position
  • Qualified candidates will be asked to provide three letters of reference

For full consideration, please apply at your earliest convenience. The position will remain open until filled.

If you have any questions, you may email Tim Hobbs at tim@anl.gov or Ian Low @ Ilow@anl.gov .

Job Family

Postdoctoral

Job Profile

Postdoctoral Appointee

Worker Type

Long-Term (Fixed Term)

Time Type

Full time

The expected hiring range for this position is $72,879.00-$121,465.00.

Please note that the pay range information is a general guideline only. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as, but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the qualifications of the selected candidate, business considerations, internal equity, and external market pay for comparable jobs. Additionally, comprehensive benefits are part of the total rewards package.

Click here (https://www.anl.gov/hr/healthcare-insurance) to view Argonne employee benefits!

As an equal employment opportunity employer, and in accordance with our core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity and teamwork, Argonne National Laboratory is committed to a safe and welcoming workplace that fosters collaborative scientific discovery and innovation. Argonne encourages everyone to apply for employment. Argonne is committed to nondiscrimination and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to any characteristic protected by law.

Argonne employees, and certain guest researchers and contractors, are subject to particular restrictions related to participation in Foreign Government Sponsored or Affiliated Activities, as defined and detailed in United States Department of Energy Order 486.1A. You will be asked to disclose any such participation in the application phase for review by Argonne's Legal Department.

All Argonne offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes an assessment of criminal conviction history conducted on an individualized and case-by-case basis. Please be advised that Argonne positions require upon hire (or may require in the future) for the individual be to obtain a government access authorization that involves additional background check requirements. Failure to obtain or maintain such government access authorization could result in the withdrawal of a job offer or future termination of employment.