1

Phd In Physics Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

S. or PhD in Medical Physics, or closely related field, required. Minimum of 2 years post-graduate physics experience in a program of similar size with computerized treatment planning and comparable ...

A PhD in physics. * One to five years of post-PhD experience, including postdoctoral research experience and multiple publications. * Comprehensive knowledge of scientific research methods in order ...

Showing results 21-40

Phd In Physics information

See Washington, DC salary details

$12.5K

$69.3K

$107K

How much do phd in physics jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for phd in physics in Washington, DC is $69,269.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,100.00 and $73,100.00 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 Washington, DC? For Phd In Physics jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Phd In Physics jobs in Washington, DC look for? The top searched job categories for Phd In Physics jobs in Washington, DC are:
Infographic showing various Phd In Physics job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,269 per year, or $33.3 per hour.

Mission Software Engineer, Air Vehicle Autonomy, C++

Anduril Industries

Washington, DC • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago


Anduril rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Anduril

Based on 17 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7.4

Company rating compared to similar companies: 7.4 out of 10

Manufacturers average

Based on 75,163 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Job Summary:
Anduril Industries is a defense technology company focused on transforming military capabilities with advanced technology. They are seeking a Mission Software Engineer to develop autonomy software for aerial and multi-domain robotic systems, working closely with various specialist teams to solve complex problems.
Responsibilities:
• Develop software solutions for aerial and multi-domain robotic systems.
• Collaborate with specialist teams like Perception, Motion Planning, Hardware, and Test Engineering.
• Create a powerful autonomy software stack that includes computer vision, motion planning, SLAM, controls, estimation, and secure communications.
Qualifications:
Required:
• Eligible to obtain and maintain an active U.S. Top Secret security clearance
• BS, MS, or PhD in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, or related field.
• 3+ years of production-grade C++ and/or Rust experience in a Linux development environment
• Experience building software solutions involving significant amounts of data processing and analysis
• Ability to quickly understand and navigate complex systems and established code bases
• A desire to work on critical software that has a real-world impact
• Travel up to 30% of time to build, test, and deploy capabilities in the real world
Preferred:
• Strong background with focus in Physics, Mathematics, and/or Motion Planning to inform modeling & simulation (M&S) and physical systems
• Developing and testing multi-agent autonomous systems and deploying in real-world environments.
• Feature and algorithm development with an understanding of behavior trees.
• Developing software/hardware for flight systems and safety critical functionality.
• Distributed communication networks and message standards
• Knowledge of military systems and operational tactics
Company:
Anduril Industries is a defense technology company that specializes in developing advanced autonomous systems to enhance national security. Founded in 2017, the company is headquartered in Costa Mesa, USA, with a team of 1001-5000 employees. The company is currently Late Stage.

Working at Anduril

About Anduril, in their own words

From Anduril

As the world enters an era of strategic competition, Anduril delivers cutting-edge autonomy, AI, computer vision, sensor fusion, and networking technology to the warfighter in months, not years.


What Anduril employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Anduril Industries logo

About Anduril Industries

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Anduril Industries is a trailblazer in the technology industry based in Costa Mesa, CA, US. Founded in 2017 by Palmer Luckey, the creator of Oculus VR, the company focuses on developing innovative technology to equip and empower those in the defense sector. Its primary products include cutting-edge autonomous systems and AI software that assist in combating threats to national and global security. The mission of Anduril Industries is to integrate technology and defense by building transformative, scalable solutions that ensure a safer world.

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Costa Mesa, CA, US

Year founded

2017

Social media