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Phd In Physics Jobs in Silver Spring, MD (NOW HIRING)

Medical Physicist

Rockville, MD · On-site

$208K - $320K/yr

Master's degree or PhD in Medical Physics or a related field. * Board certification or eligibility in therapeutic medical physics from the ABR. * Experience working Varian equipment. * Strong ...

Technical SETA - STO

Arlington, VA · On-site

$100K - $230K/yr

PhD in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering * 5+ years of experience * Ability to communicate effectively with excellent oral and written skills. * Ability to learn ...

PhD in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering * 5+ years of experience * Ability to communicate effectively with excellent oral and written skills. * Ability to learn ...

Technical SETA - MTO

Arlington, VA · On-site

$148K - $192K/yr

PhD in Physics, Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering or similar * 5+ years of experience * Ability to communicate effectively with excellent oral and written skills. * Ability to learn new ...

Showing results 41-60

Phd In Physics information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$11.4K

$63.2K

$97.7K

How much do phd in physics jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for phd in physics in Silver Spring, MD is $63,226.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,600.00 and $66,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a PhD in Physics?

A PhD in Physics is the highest academic degree awarded in the field of physics. It involves several years of advanced coursework, independent research, and the completion of a dissertation that contributes original knowledge to the field. Earning a PhD prepares graduates for careers in academia, research, industry, and government, where they can apply their deep understanding of physical principles to solve complex problems. The process typically takes 4-6 years beyond a bachelor's or master's degree.

What are the common career paths available to someone with a PhD in Physics outside of academia?

A PhD in Physics opens doors to a wide range of career paths beyond academia, including roles in industry research and development, data science, finance, technology consulting, and government or national laboratories. Many physicists find rewarding careers in sectors like aerospace, energy, and healthcare, leveraging their problem-solving and analytical skills. Collaboration is often key, as you'll work with interdisciplinary teams of engineers, data analysts, and project managers. Transitioning into these roles may involve learning new tools or adapting to different team structures, but the foundational skills from your PhD are highly valued.

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

To thrive as a PhD in Physics, you need advanced knowledge of physical theories, strong analytical skills, and experience in research methodologies, typically supported by a doctoral degree in physics or a related field. Proficiency with data analysis tools (such as MATLAB or Python), laboratory equipment, and scientific publishing systems is commonly required. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for presenting complex ideas and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These skills and qualities are essential for conducting impactful research, advancing scientific understanding, and succeeding in academic or industry settings.

What is the difference between Phd In Physics vs Physicist?

AspectPhd In PhysicsPhysicist
Required CredentialsDoctoral degree in PhysicsTypically a PhD in Physics or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, academiaResearch institutions, industry, academia
Industry UsageAcademic and research-focused rolesResearch, development, applied physics roles
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding academic qualificationsCareer options and job roles

In summary, a Phd In Physics is an academic qualification, while a Physicist is a professional working in research or industry. The Phd is necessary to become a Physicist, but not all Physicists hold a PhD. The roles often overlap in research environments, but the PhD emphasizes education, whereas Physicist roles focus on applying physics principles.

What are popular job titles related to Phd In Physics jobs in Silver Spring, MD? For Phd In Physics jobs in Silver Spring, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Phd In Physics jobs in Silver Spring, MD look for? The top searched job categories for Phd In Physics jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:
What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Phd In Physics jobs? Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Phd In Physics job openings:
Infographic showing various Phd In Physics job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,226 per year, or $30.4 per hour.

Lethality Modeling & Simulation Engineer

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory

Laurel, MD • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 73 rated research


Job description

Description
Are you passionate about improving Precision Strike capabilities for the United States warfighter?
Do you love solving complex problems with sophisticated modeling and simulation (M&S) tools?
Do you thrive in dynamic, collaborative, and fun work environments?
If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL!
We are seeking a Lethality M&S Engineer to characterize and evaluate missile system end-game performance for Precision Strike platforms. We are a multi-disciplinary and hardworking team of analysts and developers who support a wide range of government sponsors with many exciting technical problems. As a member of our team, you will develop and use simulation tools to conduct physics-based engagement-level and mission-level analyses, while collaborating with specialists and integrating M&S tools in other fields including (but not limited to): aerodynamics, GNC, propulsion, radar engineering, electronic warfare, software development, systems engineering and more.
As a Lethality Modeling & Simulation Engineer...
  • Your primary responsibility will be to evaluate precision strike platform effectiveness by developing, using, and integrating together an assortment of engagement-level lethality modeling and simulation tools.
  • You will analyze the performance of current and future weapon systems, as well as helping optimize engagements the weapon system could perform.
  • You will help build and develop novel engineering software tools to analyze large and complex data sets.
  • Work with members of the Intelligence Community (IC) to help develop models of key targets and understand how best to defeat them.
  • You will collaborate with a multi-disciplinary team to use, develop, and improve detailed modeling capabilities.
  • You will prepare and present formal documentation to technical specialists, operational partners, and Government sponsors.

Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...
  • Have a Bachelor's degree in a technical field such as Physics, Mathematics, Mechanical, Aerospace, or a closely related engineering field.
  • Have at least two years of relevant experience analyzing missile systems or working with aerospace/defense systems.
  • Have experience with programming languages such as MATLAB or Python.
  • Have experience running or developing modeling and simulations tools.
  • Have the ability to analyze complex technical problems, develop effective solutions, and execute tasks through completion.
  • Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level government security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a Top Secret level 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'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...
  • Have a Master's degree or PhD in Physics, Mathematics, Mechanical, Aerospace, or other Engineering field.
  • Have detailed experience with warhead design, penetration mechanics, shock physics, weapon targeting, or other related fields.
  • Have experience with M&S tools such as AFSIM, ESAMS, SHAZAM, AJEM, VITAL, etc. to analyze the effectiveness of fuzes and/or warheads.
  • Have experience with hydrocode analysis tools such as ALE3D, Velodyne, CTH, LS-DYNA to conduct high-fidelity analysis of systems.
  • Have strong programming skills with at least one of the following languages: Python, MATLAB / Simulink, C / C++.
  • Have experience working with DoW Government customers, industry partners, or the Intelligence Community.
  • Have an active Top Secret or higher level security clearance.

#LI-AG1
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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
$85,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$195,000 Annually

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