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Physical Scientist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$74K/yr

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 ...

$74K/yr

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 ...

$74K/yr

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 ...

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Physical Scientist information

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$44K

$81.5K

$151K

How much do physical scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for physical scientist in the United States is $81,521.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,000.00 and $99,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does a Physical Scientist Do?

The job duties of a physical scientist include working on research or experiments in their field. Aside from experiment responsibilities, you may design data models or perform testing and analysis. The type of research you do depends on your specialty. A geologist, geographer, or environmental scientist may use data applications such as a geographic information system, while chemists, who are also physical scientists, usually work in a laboratory setting and use chemical analysis programs. Regardless of your specialty, as a physical scientist, you collect data and make recommendations based on your evaluation.

What are some typical projects or tasks a Physical Scientist might work on within a multidisciplinary team?

Physical Scientists often collaborate with professionals from fields such as engineering, biology, and environmental science to address complex problems. Typical projects might include conducting experiments to analyze environmental samples, modeling physical systems, or developing new materials. Teamwork is essential, as you may be responsible for interpreting data, preparing technical reports, or presenting findings to both technical and non-technical audiences. This collaborative environment offers opportunities to broaden your skill set and contribute to impactful scientific solutions.

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 mathematics, physics, and chemistry, usually supported by at least a bachelor's degree in a relevant scientific field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data analysis software, and scientific modeling tools is essential, and certifications such as OSHA safety training can be beneficial. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are important soft skills for interpreting results and collaborating with diverse teams. These competencies ensure accurate research, innovative problem-solving, and the ability to clearly convey complex scientific findings.

What are physical scientists?

Physical scientists are professionals who study non-living systems and the physical properties of the universe. Their work encompasses fields such as physics, chemistry, geology, meteorology, and astronomy. Physical scientists conduct experiments, analyze data, and develop theories to better understand natural phenomena. They may work in research, education, industry, or government to solve practical problems or advance scientific knowledge.
What cities are hiring for Physical Scientist jobs? Cities with the most Physical Scientist job openings:
What states have the most Physical Scientist jobs? States with the most job openings for Physical Scientist jobs include:
Infographic showing various Physical Scientist job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 5% Full Time, 73% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 13% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,521 per year, or $39.2 per hour.
Physical Scientist

Physical Scientist

US Department of the Air Force

Joint Base San Antonio (randolph), TX

$74K/yr

Other

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Click on "Learn more about this agency" button below for IMPORTANT additional information.
This is a Direct Hire Solicitation. This public notice is to gather applications that may or may not result in a referral or selection.Qualifications:In order to qualify, you must meet the specialized experience requirements described in the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards for General Schedule Professional and Scientific Positions.
BASIC REQUIREMENT OR INDIVIDUAL OCCUPATIONAL REQUIREMENT:
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
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.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: In addition to meeting the basic requirement above, to qualify for this position you must also meet the qualification requirements listed below.
FOR GS-11: Successfully completed 1 year of specialized experience that equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position, and that is typically in or related to the position to be filled. To be creditable, the specialized experience must have been at the GS-09 grade level or equivalent under other pay systems in the Federal service. Examples of specialized experience may include: serving as an advanced analyst in the field of analytical chemistry for analysis of water samples (primarily stream water, soil leachate, and precipitation); using equipment and instruments including atomic absorption spectrophotometers, ion chromatographs, automatic titrators, ammonia analyzers, carbon analyzers, and nitrogen analyzers; performing preparations, quality control, calibrations, calculations, waste and sample disposal related to the analysis; training other technicians in the performance of routine duties; and generating reports based on analytical data produced.
FOR GS-12: Successfully completed 1 year of specialized experience that equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position, and that is in or related to the position to be filled. To be creditable, the specialized experience must have been at the GS-11 grade level or equivalent under other pay systems in the Federal service. Examples of creditable specialized experience may include planning and executing complex physical science studies, which usually involved intensive investigations into recognized phenomena. This work typically involved conventional methods and techniques though it required going beyond clear precedents, and required adapting methods to the problems at hand and interpreting findings in terms of their scientific significance. At this level, physical scientists have the ability to independently perform scientific work of considerable difficulty.
FOR GS-13: Successfully completed 1 year of specialized experience that equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position, and that is in or related to the position to be filled. To be creditable, the specialized experience must have been at the GS-12 grade level or equivalent under other pay systems in the Federal service. Examples may include research design; analysis and implementation; analysis and/or consolidation of research findings data to identify strategic research areas or needs.
FOR GS-14: Successfully completed 1 year of specialized experience that equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position, and that is in or related to the position to be filled. To be creditable, the specialized experience must have been at the GS-13 grade level or equivalent under other pay systems in the Federal service. Examples may include providing research and science support information for program policy or Regional program management of complex or interdisciplinary nature; identifying developmental and training needs of managers to address program area design challenges and making policy or programmatic recommendations for specific developmental tasking and training assignments; participating in policy and guidance development to enable organizational implementation of policy or program initiatives; monitoring program implementation and making recommendations on the allocation of resources; adjustment of organizational engagement methods, protocols or procedures to ensure maximum effectiveness, efficiency, and economy.
FOR GS-15: Successfully completed 1 year of specialized experience that equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position, and that is in or related to the position to be filled. To be creditable, the specialized experience must have been at the GS-14 grade level or equivalent under other pay systems in the Federal service. Examples of creditable specialized experience: performs management planning duties such as concept development, master integration planning, and programming design for programs or projects, taking into account feasibility, costs, and economics; conceives, plans, conducts and reviews work in areas where there is little theory to guide efforts; Leads a research group and/or project; Performs environmental modeling and forecasting duties; Publishes research findings in scientific journals and Represents the organization to larger scientific and management groups.
To view qualifying educational requirements and/or combination of education and experience, click on the following link: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/1300/general-physical-science-series-1301/
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs): Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the following areas:
  1. Knowledge of professional environmental physical scientific principles, practices, techniques, and procedures to effectively participate in project development, execution, training, and assistance in assigned projects (see Environmental Program Checklist).
  2. Knowledge to troubleshoot routine environmental physical science problems requiring investigation of unsanitary or questionable conditions in assigned projects (see Environmental Program Checklist).
  3. Knowledge of applicable Federal, State, and local laws, regulations, and other guidance to make decisions and recommendations concerning assigned restoration, compliance, conservation, pollution prevention and/or integration principles and practices.
  4. Skill to integrate an interdisciplinary team of professionals to include attorneys, public health specialists, public affairs specialists, biological scientists, environmental engineers, physical scientists, general engineers, community planners, regulators, other governmental officials, and community groups.
PART-TIME OR UNPAID EXPERIENCE: Credit will be given for appropriate unpaid and or part-time work. You must clearly identify the duties and responsibilities in each position held and the total number of hours per week.
VOLUNTEER WORK EXPERIENCE: Refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service Programs (i.e., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student and social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge and skills that can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.Education:IF USING EDUCATION TO QUALIFY: If position has a positive degree requirement or education forms the basis for qualifications, you MUST submit transcriptswith the application. Official transcripts are not required at the time of application; however, if position has a positive degree requirement, qualifying based on education alone or in combination with experience; transcripts must be verified prior to appointment. An accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education must accredit education. Click here to check accreditation.
FOREIGN EDUCATION: Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the requirements. You must show proof the education credentials have been deemed to be at least equivalent to that gained in conventional U.S. education program. It is your responsibility to provide such evidence when applying.Employment Type: OTHER