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Physical Science Technician Jobs (NOW HIRING)

U.S. Pacific Fleet

PHYSICAL SCIENCE TECHNICIAN

San Diego, CA · On-site +1

$77K - $110K/yr

Summary You will serve as a PHYSICAL SCIENCE TECHNICIAN in the RADIOLOGICAL CONTROL DEPARTMENT of PSNS and IMF. SALARY GS-10: $77,643 - $100,931 GS-11: $85,307 - $110,905 Learn more about this agency ...

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Physical Science Technician information

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$28.5K

$55.2K

$91K

How much do physical science technician jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for physical science technician in the United States is $55,188.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,500.00 and $65,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Physical Science Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Physical Science Technician, you generally need a solid background in chemistry, physics, or related sciences, supported by at least an associate degree or equivalent laboratory experience. Familiarity with laboratory instruments, data analysis software, and safety protocols is typically required, and certifications like OSHA or HAZWOPER can be advantageous. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication make someone stand out in this role. These skills ensure accurate data collection, safe laboratory practices, and reliable support for scientific research or industrial processes.

What are some common challenges Physical Science Technicians face when conducting fieldwork, and how can they be addressed?

Physical Science Technicians often encounter unpredictable weather conditions, difficult terrain, and logistical issues during fieldwork. To address these challenges, technicians are trained in safety protocols, proper equipment handling, and contingency planning. Effective communication and collaboration with team members are essential for adapting to changing circumstances and ensuring data integrity. Preparing thoroughly before field assignments and staying adaptable are key to overcoming these obstacles.

What jobs can I do with physical science?

A physical science technician can work in laboratories, research facilities, or industrial settings, performing experiments, data analysis, and equipment maintenance. They often use tools like spectrometers, microscopes, and computer software, and may require certifications or security clearances depending on the employer. These roles support scientific research, product development, and quality control across various industries.

What is the difference between Physical Science Technician vs Chemist?

AspectPhysical Science TechnicianChemist
Required CredentialsAssociate's or Bachelor's degree in physical sciences or related fieldBachelor's degree in chemistry or related field; advanced roles may require a master's or Ph.D.
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, field sites, government agenciesResearch labs, industrial settings, academic institutions
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, research institutions, manufacturingPharmaceuticals, chemical manufacturing, research institutions

Physical Science Technicians support scientific research and experiments, often focusing on data collection and analysis, while Chemists conduct experiments, develop compounds, and analyze chemical substances. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What kind of job can you get with a physical science degree?

A physical science degree can qualify you for roles such as a physical science technician, research assistant, laboratory technician, or quality control analyst. These jobs often involve conducting experiments, analyzing data, and using scientific tools and equipment in laboratory or field settings.

What does a physical science technician do?

A physical science technician assists scientists and engineers by conducting experiments, collecting data, and maintaining laboratory equipment. They often work with tools such as spectrometers, microscopes, and other scientific instruments, and may need knowledge of safety protocols and data analysis. Their work supports research in fields like chemistry, physics, and environmental science.

What Does a Physical Science Technician Do?

A physical science technician assists with scientific research and projects, typically within various departments and agencies of the federal government. As a physical science technician, you may be employed by departments such as agriculture, interior, commerce, the navy or air force—and your duties may vary as widely as these departments. For example, you may work in astronomy, physics, chemistry, engineering, geology, or metallurgy (to name just a few). You help perform tests in labs or in the field, collect and analyze data, then use that data to help programs achieve their individual goals. You also inspect equipment and ensure the veracity of experiments.

What are the duties of a science technician?

A physical science technician assists scientists by preparing experiments, maintaining laboratory equipment, collecting and analyzing data, and ensuring safety protocols are followed. They often work with specialized tools and may need technical certifications or training in laboratory procedures.
More about Physical Science Technician jobs
What cities are hiring for Physical Science Technician jobs? Cities with the most Physical Science Technician job openings:
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What job categories do people searching Physical Science Technician jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Physical Science Technician jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Physical Science Technician jobs? For Physical Science Technician jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Physical Science Technician jobs near you
Infographic showing various Physical Science Technician job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,188 per year, or $26.5 per hour.

Physical Science Technician

OSHA is Hiring | Occupational Safety and Health Administration

Sandy, UT

$50K/yr

Other

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

This position will serve as a Physical Scientist with the Directorate of Technical Support and Emergency Management (DTSEM), in the Industrial Hygiene Chemistry Division of the OSHA Technical Center, located in Sandy, UT.

  • This position is in the bargaining unit.
  • This full performance level of this position is GS-09.
  • This position is NOT remote. Selectee will be expected to report to the office listed above.
Qualifications:

The Physical Science Technician series has an Individual Occupational Requirement. All applicants must meet this requirement in order to be considered. You must meet the Individual Occupational Requirements and the Specialized Experience as described below to qualify for the Physical Scientist position.
INDIVIDUAL OCCUPATIONAL REQUIREMENT: Work in the fields of astronomy, physics, geophysics, chemistry, hydrology, health physics, engineering, electronics, geology, oceanography, and metallurgy. Experience as a laboratory mechanic or in a trade or craft may be credited as general or specialized experience when the work was performed in close association with physical scientists or other technical personnel and provided intensive knowledge of appropriate scientific principles, methods, techniques, and precedents.
Please review the additional information about the Individual Occupational Requirement which can be found here: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/1300/physical-science-technician-series-1311/
In addition to meeting the Individual Occupational Requirement (IOR), applicants must meet the following specialized experience.
Specialized Experience: Specialized Experience is experience that has equipped the applicant with the knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position, and that is typically in or related to the work of the position to be filled.
For the GS-07: Applicants must have at least 52 weeks of Specialized Experience equivalent to the GS-06 or higher, that equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform successfully the duties of the position. For this position, examples of specialized experience include:

  • Performing general upkeep and housekeeping of a laboratory
  • Assisting in the preparation of a variety of industrial hygiene samples
  • Maintaining stock supplies for sampling and/or analytical laboratory functions
OR
1 full year of graduate education directly related to Physical Science.

For the GS-08: Applicants must have at least 52 weeks of Specialized Experience equivalent to the GS-07 or higher, that equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform successfully the duties of the position. For this position, examples of specialized experience include:

  • Receiving chemicals and putting into appropriate storage locations according to laboratory standard operating procedures.
  • Assisting in testing compliance samples in safety and Industrial Hygiene inspections
  • Assisting in preparing industrial hygiene samples for quantitative analysis (Ex: Open sorbent tubes, open filter cassettes, dry, crush, mix, or filter)
OR
1 and a half full years of graduate education directly related to Physical Science.Education:

Any applicant falsely claiming an academic degree from an accredited school will be subject to actions ranging from disqualification from federal employment to removal from federal service.

If your education was completed at a foreign college or university, you must show comparability to education received in accredited educational institutions in the United States and comparability to applicable minimum coursework requirements for this position. Click Evaluation of Foreign Education for more information.

Employment Type: OTHER

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