| Aspect | Physicist Starting Salary | Mechanical Engineer Starting Salary |
|---|
| Required Credentials | Bachelor's or Master's in Physics, PhD often preferred for research roles | Bachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering, PE license optional |
| Work Environment | Research labs, academia, government agencies | Manufacturing, design firms, consulting |
| Industry Usage | Research, academia, government research labs | Product design, manufacturing, energy sectors |
Generally, Physicists start with a slightly higher salary due to specialized research roles and advanced degrees, but Mechanical Engineers often have broader industry opportunities. The salary difference varies based on location, education, and industry demand.