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Phd Graduate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Aurora Innovation

Applied Researcher

San Francisco, CA · On-site

PhD Graduate in AI, Computer Science, or Robotics (Top-tier research lab background) * Deep expertise in Vision-Language Models (VLM) and Vision-Language-Action (VLA) models * Hands-on experience ...

Aurora Innovation

Applied Researcher

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

PhD Graduate in AI, Computer Science, or Robotics (Top-tier research lab background) * Deep expertise in Vision-Language Models (VLM) and Vision-Language-Action (VLA) models * Hands-on experience ...

Cadence Design Systems, Inc.

Software Intern

San Jose, CA · On-site

$31.63 - $58.75/hr

Master or PhD graduate candidates The hourly range for California is $31.63 to $58.75 per hour. You may also be eligible to receive incentive compensation: bonus, equity, and benefits. Please note ...

Aurora Innovation

Applied Researcher

Seattle, WA · On-site

PhD Graduate in AI, Computer Science, or Robotics (Top-tier research lab background) * Deep expertise in Vision-Language Models (VLM) and Vision-Language-Action (VLA) models * Hands-on experience ...

Cadence

Software Intern

San Jose, CA

$31.63 - $58.75/hr

Master or PhD graduate candidates The hourly range for California is $31.63 to $58.75 per hour. You may also be eligible to receive incentive compensation: bonus, equity, and benefits. Please note ...

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Phd Graduate information

What are PhD graduates?

PhD graduates are individuals who have completed a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree, which is the highest academic degree awarded by universities in most fields. They have demonstrated advanced knowledge and original research in their area of study, often culminating in a dissertation or thesis. PhD graduates are qualified for careers in academia, research, industry, and leadership roles that require critical thinking and specialized expertise.

What jobs can a PhD student do?

A PhD graduate can pursue roles such as research scientist, university professor, data analyst, policy advisor, or industry researcher, depending on their field of study. These positions often require advanced analytical skills, research experience, and expertise in specialized tools or methodologies.

What jobs can I get with a doctoral degree?

A PhD graduate can pursue careers in academia as professors or researchers, or work in industry as data scientists, research scientists, or policy analysts. These roles often require advanced research skills, critical thinking, and expertise in a specific field, and may involve publishing, grant writing, or project management.

How much do PhD grads make?

PhD graduates often earn higher starting salaries than those with only a master's or bachelor's degree, with median annual pay ranging from $70,000 to over $100,000 depending on the field and industry. Salaries can vary significantly based on specialization, experience, and location, especially in research, academia, or industry roles requiring advanced expertise.

What types of career paths are available to recent PhD graduates outside academia?

Recent PhD graduates have a wide range of career options beyond traditional academic roles. Common paths include research and development positions in industry, data science, consulting, policy analysis, and roles in government or non-profit organizations. Many companies value the analytical, project management, and problem-solving skills developed during doctoral studies. Networking, internships, and leveraging transferable skills are key strategies for transitioning into these sectors.

What is the difference between Phd Graduate vs Research Scientist?

AspectPhd GraduateResearch Scientist
Required CredentialsPhD degree, specialized research experienceTypically PhD, with additional experience in specific research areas
Work EnvironmentAcademic institutions, research labs, universitiesCorporate R&D labs, industry research teams
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, government agencies, research institutesPrivate companies, biotech, tech firms, pharmaceuticals
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

While both Phd Graduates and Research Scientists hold advanced research credentials, Phd Graduates often focus on academic or early-career research roles, whereas Research Scientists typically work in industry settings with more applied research responsibilities. The transition from Phd Graduate to Research Scientist involves gaining industry experience and applying research skills in commercial environments.

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

To thrive as a PhD Graduate, you need advanced research skills, subject-matter expertise, and a doctoral degree in your field. Familiarity with data analysis software, academic publishing platforms, and citation management systems is typically required. Strong critical thinking, perseverance, and effective communication help distinguish successful graduates in academic or industry roles. These skills are essential for contributing original knowledge, solving complex problems, and collaborating effectively in research and professional environments.

What jobs can I get after a PhD?

A PhD graduate can pursue careers in academia as a university professor or researcher, or work in industry as a data scientist, research scientist, or specialized engineer. They often find roles in government agencies, think tanks, or as consultants, leveraging advanced research skills, critical thinking, and subject matter expertise.
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What job categories do people searching Phd Graduate jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Phd Graduate jobs are:
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Infographic showing various Phd Graduate job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution.
2026 PhD Graduate - Optical/Electrical/Computer Engineering - Imaging Systems - QPI

2026 PhD Graduate - Optical/Electrical/Computer Engineering - Imaging Systems - QPI

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory

Laurel, MD • On-site

$245K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory rating

9.9

Company rating: 9.9 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

1st of 59 rated research

Job description

Description
Are you passionate about optical sensing, computer vision, and/or all things imaging?
Are you searching for an opportunity to apply your engineering skills in a creative and collaborative laboratory environment?
Would you love to engage in meaningful, hands-on work with an employer that prioritizes impact, innovation, and personal development?
If so, we are looking for someone like you to join our team at the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL)!
We are seeking a creative PhD new graduate to join the Imaging Systems Group. As a member of our team, you will contribute to critical system development and experimental efforts. You will be joining an excellent team committed to crafting an environment of innovation.
As a member of our team...
  • Your primary responsibility will be to develop, evaluate, and deploy imaging system hardware, algorithms, and/or software.
  • You will assist in the brainstorming and development of new initiatives/concepts in optical imaging through internal research and development (IR&D) efforts.
  • You will capture technical contributions in internal me/reports and conference/journal papers, and present findings and recommendations at internal and external forums.
  • You will support field integration and testing activities of developed systems.

Qualifications
Minimum requirements for your role include...
  • Have a PhD in electrical/computer engineering, optical engineering, imaging science, computer vision, or equivalent.
  • Have demonstrated the ability to work both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team and possess strong interpersonal, speaking, and technical writing skills.
  • Are able to obtain an Interim Secret Clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a Top Secret / SCI security clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You will go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...
  • Have a intern experience in electrical/computer engineering, optical engineering, imaging science, computer vision, or similar.
  • Have an active Secret level security clearance.

About Us
Why Work at APL?
The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.
At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accessibility@jhuapl.edu.
The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Minimum Rate
$105,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$245,000 Annually

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