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Physical Science Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Middle School Science Tutor

Fairfax, VA ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of life science including cells, genetics, and ecosystems, earth science including plate tectonics, weather, and space, physical science including forces, energy, and chemical ...

Deep knowledge of life science including cells, genetics, and ecosystems, earth science including plate tectonics, weather, and space, physical science including forces, energy, and chemical ...

Deep knowledge of life science including cells, genetics, and ecosystems, earth science including plate tectonics, weather, and space, physical science including forces, energy, and chemical ...

Middle School Science Tutor

Leesburg, VA ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of life science including cells, genetics, and ecosystems, earth science including plate tectonics, weather, and space, physical science including forces, energy, and chemical ...

Middle School Science Tutor

Bowie, MD ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of life science including cells, genetics, and ecosystems, earth science including plate tectonics, weather, and space, physical science including forces, energy, and chemical ...

Deep knowledge of life science including cells, genetics, and ecosystems, earth science including plate tectonics, weather, and space, physical science including forces, energy, and chemical ...

Middle School Science Tutor

Laurel, MD ยท Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of life science including cells, genetics, and ecosystems, earth science including plate tectonics, weather, and space, physical science including forces, energy, and chemical ...

Showing results 41-60

Physical Science information

See Washington salary details

$32.3K

$62.5K

$103.1K

How much do physical science jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for physical science in Washington is $62,506.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,000.00 and $73,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of projects or research do physical scientists typically work on, and how do they collaborate with other professionals?

Physical scientists often engage in projects ranging from laboratory experiments to field studies and data analysis, depending on their specific discipline (such as physics, chemistry, or earth sciences). Collaboration is a key aspect of the role, as physical scientists frequently work alongside engineers, technicians, and other scientists to solve complex problems and advance research objectives. Team meetings, interdisciplinary projects, and joint publications are common, offering opportunities to contribute expertise while learning from others. This collaborative environment fosters professional growth and can lead to leadership roles in project management or advanced research.

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

To thrive as a Physical Scientist, you need a solid background in physics, chemistry, or earth sciences, typically supported by at least a bachelor's or master's degree in a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data analysis software (such as MATLAB or Python), and scientific instrumentation is often required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving ability, and effective communication make someone stand out in this role. These skills are essential for conducting accurate research, interpreting complex data, and collaborating with colleagues to advance scientific understanding.

What can I do with a physical science degree?

A physical science degree prepares individuals for careers in research, engineering, environmental science, and technical roles. Graduates often work in laboratories, manufacturing, or government agencies, utilizing skills in data analysis, problem-solving, and scientific tools. Additional certifications or advanced degrees can expand job opportunities in specialized fields.

What jobs can I get with physical science?

A degree or background in physical science can lead to careers such as physicist, chemist, materials scientist, or environmental scientist. These roles often require strong analytical skills, laboratory work, and knowledge of scientific tools and methods. Employment can be found in research institutions, government agencies, manufacturing, and energy sectors.

What is the difference between Physical Science vs Chemistry?

AspectPhysical ScienceChemistry
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree often in physical science or related fieldsBachelor's degree in chemistry or related field, often with certifications
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, industrial settingsLaboratories, research institutions, industrial labs
Industry UsagePhysics, astronomy, geology, environmental scienceChemical manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, research labs

Physical Science is a broad field encompassing physics, astronomy, and geology, focusing on understanding natural phenomena. Chemistry is a specialized branch within physical science, concentrating on the composition, structure, and reactions of matter. While both require similar educational backgrounds and work environments, chemistry involves more specific chemical knowledge and applications.

What is a physical scientist?

Physical scientists are professionals who study non-living systems and the fundamental laws of nature. They often work in fields such as physics, chemistry, astronomy, and geology to analyze matter, energy, and the interactions between them. Physical scientists use experiments, theoretical models, and advanced technology to solve problems and expand our understanding of the physical universe. Their work is crucial in developing new materials, technologies, and scientific knowledge that impacts various industries and everyday life.
Infographic showing various Physical Science job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,506 per year, or $30.1 per hour.

Supervisory Research Physical Scientist

Work with us | National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

College Park, MD โ€ข On-site

$147K/yr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

This position is located in the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Oceanic and Atmospheric Research (OAR), with four vacancies in Silver Spring, MD; College Park, MD; Boulder, CO; Seattle, WA; Miami, FL; Ann Arbor, MI; Plainsboro NJ; Norman OK; or Newport, OR.Qualifications:

Qualification requirements in the vacancy announcements are based on the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards Handbook, which contains federal qualification standards. This handbook is available on the Office of Personnel Management's website located at: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/
BASIC REQUIREMENTS: This position has a positive Education Requirement in addition to at least one year of Specialized Experience in order to be found minimally qualified. Transcripts must be submitted with your application package. You MUST meet the following requirements:
To qualify for the 1301 series:
EDUCATION:
A. Degree: Physical science, engineering, or mathematics that included 24 semester hours in physical science and/or related engineering science such as mechanics, dynamics, properties of materials, and electronics.
OR
B. Combination of education and experience: education equivalent to one of the majors shown in A above that included at least 24 semester hours in physical science and/or related engineering science, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
AND
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: Applicants must possess one year of specialized experience equivalent in difficulty and responsibility to the next lower grade level in the Federal Service. Specialized experience is experience that has equipped the applicant with the particular competencies/knowledge, skills and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position. This experience need not have been in the federal government.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations e.g., professional; philanthropic, religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies; knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
To qualify at the ZP-5 or GS-15 level:
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: In addition to meeting the Basic Requirements above, applicants must also possess one full year (52 weeks) of specialized experience equivalent to the ZP-4 or GS-14 in the Federal service. Specialized experience MUST include all of the following:

  • Overseeing scientific research programs or projects involving the planning, organizing, and carrying out investigations to strengthen the understanding of the stratosphere, climate intervention, or environmental change;
  • Preparing and presenting research findings for dissemination in various forms (e.g., peer-reviewed journals, publications, reports, papers, presentations, briefs, etc.); and
  • Leading or managing a team to include developing performance standards, evaluating work performance, and providing oversight and feedback.
Education:

Substitution of education for specialized experience is not applicable to this vacancy.
College Transcript: If you are qualifying based on education, submit a copy of your college transcript that lists college courses detailing each course by the number and department (i.e., Bio 101, Math 210, etc.), name of accredited institution, course title, number of credit hours and grade earned. You must submit evidence that any education completed in a foreign institution is equivalent to U.S. education standards with your resume. You may submit an unofficial copy of the transcript at the initial phase of the application process. If course content cannot be easily identified from the title of the course as listed on your transcript, you must submit an official course description from the college/university that reflects the content at the time the course was taken.
Note: Your college transcript is used to verify successful completion of degree, or college course work. An official college transcript will be required before you can report to duty.
Education completed in colleges or universities outside the United States may be used to meet the above requirements. You must provide acceptable documentation that the foreign education is comparable to that received in an accredited educational institution in the United States. For more information on how foreign education is evaluated, visit: OPM Foreign Education Evaluation.

Employment Type: OTHER