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How much do particle physics jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for particle physics in the United States is $61,160.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,000.00 and $64,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.
More about Particle Physics jobs
What cities are hiring for Particle Physics jobs? Cities with the most Particle Physics job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Particle Physics jobs? The most popular types of Particle Physics jobs are:
What states have the most Particle Physics jobs? States with the most job openings for Particle Physics jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Particle Physics jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Particle Physics jobs are:
Particle Physics jobs near you
Infographic showing various Particle Physics job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 6% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,160 per year, or $29.4 per hour.
Experimental Nuclear Physics Postdoc

Experimental Nuclear Physics Postdoc

Los Alamos National Laboratory

Los Alamos, NM • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

Los Alamos National Laboratory rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 32 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 103 rated laboratories

Job description

Description
Job Title Experimental Nuclear Physics Postdoc
Location Los Alamos, NM, US
Organization Name P-3 / NUCLEAR AND PARTICLE PHYSICS AND APPLICATIONS
Minimum Salary
Maximum Salary
What You Will Do
The low-energy nuclear physics team (P-3) in LANL's Physics Division is looking for two or more postdoctoral researchers to work on direct and indirect measurements of neutron-induced reactions. The successful candidate will perform measurements, analysis, and/or development with the suite of instruments located at the Los Alamos Neutron Science Center (LANSCE). The instruments include the Detector for Advanced Neutron Capture Experiments (DANCE) , the Low-Energy (n,Z) (LENZ) Instrument , the Chi-Nu Prompt Fission Neutron Instrument , the Correlated Gamma-Neutron Array for sCattering (CoGNAC), the Spatially REsolved Fission Tracker and TPC (SREFT), the SPecrometer for Ion DEtermination Research (SPIDER) , and the Device for Indirect Capture Experiments on Radionuclides (DICER) , which all take advantage of the unique time-of-flight neutron beams available at LANSCE. These neutron beams are produced via spallation and cover a broad range of incident neutron energies from sub-thermal to 800 MeV. New capabilities being developed include a novel Neutron Target Facility for measuring neutron-induced reactions in inverse kinematics, and current opportunities available to work on the ongoing Neutron Target Demonstrator and ASTRA facility. Outside Los Alamos, experimental campaigns are also performed using charged particle beams at various university based, or national laboratory based accelerator facilities.
Research areas in the group include studies of nuclear astrophysics (s-process, r-process, heavy element synthesis), nuclear structure (gamma-ray spectroscopy, level density, photon strength function), nuclear reactions, and studies of the fission process. The group is tightly coupled to the LANL Theory Division; nuclear physics and astrophysics theory groups as well as rad-hydro modeling teams in nuclear applications groups.
A broad range of expertise and background is desired in the team, and there are multiple distinct projects that a successful candidate could pursue within the research disciplines of the team. Opportunities for collaboration outside of P-3 include, for example, working with nuclear engineers on applications of spallation physics, with radiochemists on radioactive target fabrication, or with a variety of groups developing simulations for real-world applications.
Highly qualified applicants will be considered for Director's or Agnew National Security Postdoctoral Fellowships with exceptional candidates being considered for the prestigious Marie Curie, Richard P. Feynman, J. Robert Oppenheimer, or Frederick Reines Fellowships.
What You Need
Minimum Job Requirements:
Required Skills:
  • Ph.D. in a relevant area of nuclear physics, particle physics, astrophysics, nuclear engineering, or related areas
  • Ability to carry out independent and collaborative research
  • Ability to communicate both technically and interpersonally both, orally and in writing

Desired Qualifications:
(We include a broad range of skills, any of which we would request be noted in the cover letter. There is no expectation that a candidate has all, or even more than one of these skills)
  • Experience in particle or gamma-ray detector development and/or implementation
  • Experience with Monte Carlo based particle/gamma-ray simulation tools
  • Experience with nuclear reaction models
  • Experience with detector electronic hardware and/or data acquisition design and development
  • Experience with numerical methods or computational physics
  • Familiarity or expertise with the UNIX/Linux operating systems and or scripting languages such as Python
  • Familiarity and or expertise with machine learning approaches
Education
A Ph.D. in Physics or a related field completed within the last five years or soon to be completed is required. Exceptions can be made to the five-year time-frame-please inquire if this is relevant.
Work Environment:
Work Location : The work location for this position is onsite and located in Los Alamos, NM. All work locations are at the discretion of management.
Note to Applicants:
  • Please send any questions for details or information to Sean Kuvin, who is co-chairing the search committee.
  • In addition to applying online, please send a curriculum vitae, a cover letter summarizing relevant qualifications, research, and career goals, and arrange for three letters of recommendation to be sent to kuvin@lanl.gov.
  • Candidates may be considered for a Director's Fellowship and outstanding candidates may be considered for the prestigious Marie Curie, Richard P. Feynman, J. Robert Oppenheimer, Frederick Reines or Harold Agnew Fellowships.
  • General information on the LANL Postdoc Program and postdoctoral salaries is available.

Due to federal restrictions contained in the current National Defense Authorization Act, citizens of the People's Republic of China-including the special administrative regions of Hong Kong and Macau-as well as citizens of the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (North Korea), and the Russian Federation, who are not Lawful Permanent Residents ("green card" holders) are prohibited from accessing facilities that support the mission, functions, and operations of national security laboratories and nuclear weapons production facilities, which includes Los Alamos National Laboratory.
Where You Will Work
Located in beautiful northern New Mexico, Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is a multidisciplinary research institution engaged in strategic science on behalf of national security. Our generous benefits package includes:
  • PPO or High Deductible medical insurance with the same large nationwide network
  • Dental and vision insurance
  • Free basic life and disability insurance
  • Paid childbirth and parental leave
  • Award-winning 401(k) (6% matching plus 3.5% annually)
  • Learning opportunities and tuition assistance
  • Flexible schedules and time off (PTO and holidays)
  • Onsite gyms and wellness programs
  • Extensive relocation packages (outside a 50 mile radius)

Additional Details
Directive 206.2 - Employment with Triad requires a favorable decision by NNSA indicating employee is suitable under NNSA Supplemental Directive 206.2 . Please note that this requirement applies only to citizens of the United States. Foreign nationals are subject to a similar requirement under DOE Order 142.3A.
No Clearance: Position does not require a security clearance. Selected candidates will be subject to drug testing and other pre-employment background checks.
New-Employment Drug Test: The Laboratory requires successful applicants to complete a new-employment drug test and maintains a substance abuse policy that includes random drug testing. Although New Mexico and other states have legalized the use of marijuana, use and possession of marijuana remain illegal under federal law. A positive drug test for marijuana will result in termination of employment, even if the use was pre-offer.
Internal Applicants: Regular appointment employees who have served the required period of continuous service in their current position are eligible to apply for posted jobs throughout the Laboratory. If an employee has not served the required period of continuous service, they may only apply for Laboratory jobs with the documented approval of their Division Leader. Please refer to Policy Policy P701 for applicant eligibility requirements.
Equal Opportunity: Los Alamos National Laboratory is an equal opportunity employer. All employment practices are based on qualification and merit, without regard to protected categories such as race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status or spousal affiliation, physical or mental disability, medical conditions, pregnancy, status as a protected veteran, genetic information, or citizenship within the limits imposed by federal, state, and local laws and regulations. The Laboratory is also committed to making our workplace accessible to individuals with disabilities and will provide reasonable accommodations, upon request, for individuals to participate in the application and hiring process. To request such an accommodation, please send an email to applyhelp@lanl.gov or call (505)-664-6947.
Instructions on How to Activate/Create a LANL Jobs Account:
Follow the instructions below if you have ever had an employee Z number, been a contractor, or received Los Alamos Lab insurance coverage to activate your account:
  • Select the Click Here button if you have been employed with the Lab or received insurance coverage .
  • Please enter only your first and last name and current email address (an email with your validation code will be sent to you) to activate the account currently in our system.
  • Enter your validation code as described in the email you receive and complete the 3-page registration form. Your account is now active, and you can apply for jobs or save to your basket. Important : Enter the validation code within 15 days to activate your account or your account will be deactivated.

Follow the instructions below if you if you have never been employed with the Lab or received insurance coverage to create an account:
  • Select the Register button if you have never been employed with the Lab or received insurance coverage to Create an Account.
  • From here, you will establish an account with username and password.

How to Apply: Login to Your Account to Complete the Application Process
  • Click the Vacancy Name number (in blue) to view any job's details.
  • Click Apply or Add to Basket to apply later. Tip : To apply for a job or save your basket, you must have a LANL jobs account.

If you experience any technical issues, please email applyhelp@lanl.gov for assistance.
Employment Status Full Time
Appointment Type Postdoc
Postdoc

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