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Physical Science Jobs in Wisconsin (NOW HIRING)

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Physical Science information

See Wisconsin salary details

$28.8K

$55.7K

$91.9K

How much do physical science jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for physical science in Wisconsin is $55,704.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,900.00 and $65,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What do you do in physical science?

A physical scientist studies the properties and behaviors of matter and energy, conducting experiments and analyzing data to understand natural phenomena. They often work in laboratories or field settings, using tools like microscopes, spectrometers, and computer models. The role may require knowledge of physics, chemistry, or related sciences and often involves data collection, analysis, and reporting.

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, laboratory work, and technical roles in industries such as aerospace, energy, environmental science, and manufacturing. Graduates often work as scientists, engineers, technicians, or analysts, utilizing skills in data analysis, problem-solving, and laboratory techniques. Advanced positions may require further education or certifications, and familiarity with scientific tools and software is beneficial.

What jobs can I get with physical science?

A degree in physical science can lead to careers such as research scientist, laboratory technician, environmental analyst, or materials scientist. These roles often require strong analytical skills, knowledge of laboratory equipment, and sometimes certifications or advanced degrees. Physical scientists work in industries like research institutions, government agencies, manufacturing, and environmental consulting.

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 an example of a job for physical science?

A common job in physical science is a physicist, who conducts experiments, develops theories, and analyzes data related to matter, energy, and physical phenomena. Physicists often work in laboratories or research institutions and may require a degree in physics or a related field. They use tools like telescopes, particle accelerators, and computer simulations to advance scientific understanding.

What are physical scientists?

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.
What are popular job titles related to Physical Science jobs in Wisconsin? For Physical Science jobs in Wisconsin, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Physical Science jobs in Wisconsin look for? The top searched job categories for Physical Science jobs in Wisconsin are:
What cities in Wisconsin are hiring for Physical Science jobs? Cities in Wisconsin with the most Physical Science job openings:
Infographic showing various Physical Science job openings in Wisconsin as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,704 per year, or $26.8 per hour.

$147K/yr

Other

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

This position is located in the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), National Environmental Satellite, Data, and Information Service (NESDIS), Office of Space Weather Observations (SWO), with 1 vacancy in Lanham, MD; Suitland, MD; College Park, MD; Asheville, NC; Boulder, CO; Fort Collins, CO; Madison, WI; Stennis, MS; Silver Spring, MD; Greenbelt, MD; Riverdale Park, MD.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 may be filled with series 0801 (General Engineering) / 1301 (General Physical Science). Each series requires applicants to meet a Basic Education Requirement in addition to at least one full year (52 weeks) of specialized experience or a substitution of education for experience in order to be found minimally qualified. Transcripts must be submitted with your application package. You MUST meet one of the following basic education 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.
To qualify for the 0801 series:
EDUCATION:
A. Degree: Engineering. To be acceptable, the program must: (1) lead to a bachelor's degree in a school of engineering with at least one program accredited by ABET; or (2) include differential and integral calculus and courses (more advanced than first-year physics and chemistry) in five of the following seven areas of engineering science or physics: (a) statics, dynamics; (b) strength of materials (stress-strain relationships); (c) fluid mechanics, hydraulics; (d) thermodynamics; (e) electrical fields and circuits; (f) nature and properties of materials (relating particle and aggregate structure to properties); and (g) any other comparable area of fundamental engineering science or physics, such as optics, heat transfer, soil mechanics, or electronics.
OR
B. Combination of education and experience: college-level education, training, and/or technical experience that furnished (1) a thorough knowledge of the physical and mathematical sciences underlying engineering, and (2) a good understanding, both theoretical and practical, of the engineering sciences and techniques and their applications to one of the branches of engineering. The adequacy of such background must be demonstrated by one of the following:

  1. Professional registration or licensure -- Current registration as an Engineer Intern (EI), Engineer in Training (EIT), or licensure as a Professional Engineer (PE) by any State, the District of Columbia, Guam, or Puerto Rico. Absent other means of qualifying under this standard, those applicants who achieved such registration by means other than written test (e.g., State grandfather or eminence provisions) are eligible only for positions that are within or closely related to the specialty field of their registration. For example, an applicant who attains registration through a State Board's eminence provision as a manufacturing engineer typically would be rated eligible only for manufacturing engineering positions.
  2. Written Test -- Evidence of having successfully passed the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) examination or any other written test required for professional registration by an engineering licensure board in the various States, the District of Columbia, Guam, and Puerto Rico.
  3. Specified academic courses -- Successful completion of at least 60 semester hours of courses in the physical, mathematical, and engineering sciences and that included the courses specified in the basic requirements under paragraph A. The courses must be fully acceptable toward meeting the requirements of an engineering program as described in paragraph A.
  4. Related curriculum -- Successful completion of a curriculum leading to a bachelor's degree in an appropriate scientific field, e.g., engineering technology, physics, chemistry, architecture, computer science, mathematics, hydrology, or geology, may be accepted in lieu of a bachelor's degree in engineering, provided the applicant has had at least 1 year of professional engineering experience acquired under professional engineering supervision and guidance. Ordinarily there should be either an established plan of intensive training to develop professional engineering competence, or several years of prior professional engineering-type experience, e.g., in interdisciplinary positions. (The above examples of related curricula are not all-inclusive.)

Note: An applicant who meets the basic requirements as specified in A or B above, except as noted under B.1., may qualify for positions in any branch of engineering unless selective factors indicate otherwise.
-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:

  • Leading satellite and ground system projects which could include: performing installation, operations, design, engineering or science tasks, maintenance, or sustainment tasks;
  • Negotiating and executing contracts pertaining to the acquisition or maintenance of existing and planned satellite flight and ground assets; and
  • Managing teams, tracking budgets, or planning activities to meet organizational priorities.
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