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Physicist Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Posting Details Position Information Posting Number F0478P Position Title Adjunct Instructor - Physics Position Type Adjunct Faculty Department Physics Division College of Science and Engineering ...

The Junior Medical Physicist assists in the treatment planning and MU calculations for external beam therapy in conjunction with and under the direction of Qualified Medical Physicists (QMPs)

The Junior Medical Physicist assists in the treatment planning and MU calculations for external beam therapy in conjunction with and under the direction of Qualified Medical Physicists (QMPs)

Posting Details Position Information Posting Number SF1944P Position Title Physics Specialist Position Type Professional/Salaried Department AMSTI - Troy Division College of Education and Behavioral ...

PROGRAM COORDINATOR II

Birmingham, AL ยท On-site

$18.35 - $29.80/hr

Primary Focus Areas Medical Physics Faculty Support * Provides administrative support to Medical Physics faculty and staff, including scheduling, travel, meetings, onboarding, and academic activities.

Secretary V

Mobile, AL ยท On-site

Maintains Physics Classroom Use calendar and audio visual room scheduling. * Oversees MSPB 140, 240, 250, and 223 classroom conditions and equipment upkeep for cleaning. * Prepares correspondence ...

PROGRAM MANAGER I

Birmingham, AL ยท On-site

$43K - $71K/yr

Medical Physics Faculty Support: Provides administrative support to Medical Physics faculty and staff, including scheduling, travel, meetings, onboarding, and academic activities. Assists with ...

Showing results 41-60

Physicist information

See Alabama salary details

$35.8K

$85.9K

$205.3K

How much do physicist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for physicist in Alabama is $85,930.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,500.00 and $101,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical collaborative projects that physicists work on within research institutions?

Physicists frequently collaborate with multidisciplinary teams that may include engineers, computer scientists, and chemists, depending on the nature of the research. Common projects include designing and conducting experiments, developing and testing new theories, or creating advanced technologies such as medical imaging devices or particle accelerators. These collaborations often involve regular meetings, shared data analysis, and joint publication of research findings. Working effectively in such teams is essential for advancing both individual and institutional research goals.

What jobs can I do with physics?

Physicists can work in research and development, academia, engineering, data analysis, and technology sectors. They often apply their skills in laboratories, government agencies, or private industry, utilizing tools like mathematical modeling and scientific software. Many roles require strong analytical skills and a solid understanding of scientific principles.

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

To thrive as a Physicist, you need a strong background in mathematics, analytical problem-solving, and a relevant degree in physics or a related field, often up to a Ph.D. level for research roles. Familiarity with scientific computing languages (such as Python or MATLAB), laboratory instrumentation, and data analysis software is typically required. Critical thinking, perseverance, and effective communication skills help physicists excel in collaborative research and complex problem-solving environments. These abilities are essential for advancing scientific knowledge, publishing findings, and driving innovation in technology and industry.

What does a physicist do?

A physicist is a scientist who studies the fundamental principles that govern the behavior of the universe, such as matter, energy, space, and time. They conduct experiments, develop theories, and use mathematical models to understand natural phenomena. Physicists may specialize in areas like theoretical physics, experimental physics, astrophysics, or applied physics, and their work often leads to technological advances and new scientific discoveries.

Are physicists highly paid?

Physicists often earn competitive salaries, especially those with advanced degrees and specialized skills in research, data analysis, or engineering. Salaries vary by industry, experience, and location, with physicists in academia typically earning less than those in private sector roles such as technology or aerospace companies.

What is the difference between Physicist vs Engineer?

AspectPhysicistEngineer
Required credentialsTypically a Ph.D. in Physics or related fieldBachelor's or Master's degree in Engineering or related field
Work environmentResearch labs, universities, government agenciesDesign, development, and testing in industrial or corporate settings
Industry usageResearch, academia, government research projectsManufacturing, technology, construction, and product development

Physicists focus on understanding fundamental principles of matter and energy, often working in research or academia. Engineers apply scientific principles to develop practical solutions, products, and systems. While both roles require strong analytical skills, physicists typically pursue advanced degrees and work in research environments, whereas engineers often have bachelor's or master's degrees and work on applied projects in industry.

What are the most commonly searched types of Physicist jobs in Alabama? The most popular types of Physicist jobs in Alabama are:
What job categories do people searching Physicist jobs in Alabama look for? The top searched job categories for Physicist jobs in Alabama are:
What cities in Alabama are hiring for Physicist jobs? Cities in Alabama with the most Physicist job openings:
Infographic showing various Physicist job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 30% Part Time, and 27% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $85,930 per year, or $41.3 per hour.

Junior Optical Engineer or Physicist (Job ID:4429)

Valkyrie Enterprises

Huntsville, AL โ€ข On-site

$118K - $153K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Junior Optical Engineer or Physicist
Purpose:
Valkyrie Enterprises is seeking a Junior Optical Engineer or Physicist
  • At Huntsville, AL and Redstone Arsenal, AL for weapon system sensor/seeker simulation, testing, and evaluation, development, planning and analysis, which may include:
    • Optical system requirements, design, development and analysis
    • Scene projector optics and integration with seeker/sensor
    • Laser and infrared radiometry and testing of cameras and sources.
  • The ideal candidate will have experience in optical systems, optical engineering, sensors/seeker testing, and hardware-in-the-loop (HWIL) simulation.
  • The successful candidate will play a role in expanding our technology solutions to customers and stakeholder satisfaction.
  • Development support activities will include design, assembly, alignment, and testing of optical systems, illumination systems, and laser systems. Operational support activities will include configuration, radiometric calibration, and operation of specialized equipment in support of the testing of missile sensors/seekers and other electro-optical sensors.

Job Description:
  • Provide optical engineering design, development, integration, test, verification and analysis expertise to activities for scene projection and weapon system integration and test.
  • Serve as an optical engineering team member and coordinate with other optics subject matter experts (SMEs)
  • Design and develop laser and optical solutions for testing with seekers/sensors
  • Development support activities will include design, assembly, alignment, and testing of optical systems, illumination systems, and laser systems
  • Operational support activities will include configuration, radiometric calibration, and operation of specialized equipment in support of the testing of missile sensors/seekers and other electro-optical sensors
  • Position requires comprehensive knowledge to resolve complex problems and provide solutions
  • Collaborate continuously and mentor team members and others.
  • Support the preparation of regular program status reports for senior leadership and government customers
  • Identify and mitigate program risks while developing contingency plans

Qualifications:
  • Must have a BA/BS in optical engineering, physics or related area and at least 0-10 years of related experience.
  • Must have the ability to conduct research and perform analysis on optical requirements and designs.
  • Must have optical design software experience for optical system design and ray tracing.
  • Must have higher level language programming (Matlab, Python, or equivalent) for data analysis and visualization.
  • Must have passion for solving problems and providing workable solutions.
  • Must have strong analytical and reasoning skills and ability to visualize optical/laser systems.
  • Must have all-round communication skills and ability to work individually and collaboratively.
  • Must be self-motivated and directed, with keen attention to detail.
  • Must have analytical and creative problem-solving abilities.
  • Must have customer service orientation.

Desired Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's/Master's Degree or PhD in Optic Engineering,Physics and/or related degree, preferred.
  • Experience with optical design, assembly, ray tracing and/or HWIL testing, preferred.
  • Experience with HWIL equipment, such as Laser and/or Electro-optical Infrared (EOIR) Scene Projectors, sources, sensors and/or optics, preferred.
  • Experience in ZEMAX, Code V, OSLO, or equivalent software languages, preferred.
  • Experience with Department of Defense (DoD) programs, preferred.
  • Prefer an Active Secret clearance

Security Requirements:
  • Must be eligible to obtain and maintain a Secret clearance.

Travel Requirements:
  • None to occasional travel; 10-25% or less
  • If position requires travel by domestic flight or access to secure federal facilities/military bases, candidate must be able to obtain (by start of position) and maintain appropriate identification credentials, such as REAL ID. (More information regarding REAL ID can be found: https://www.dhs.gov/real-id).

Physical Requirements:
  • Remaining in a stationary position, often standing, or sitting for prolonged periods
  • Able to sit and work on a computer for long periods of time
  • Moving about to accomplish tasks or moving from one worksite to another
  • Communicating with others to exchange information
  • Light work that includes moving objects up to 25 pounds

Pre-Employment Requirements:
Any offer of employment with Valkyrie Enterprises is contingent upon the successful completion of all applicable pre-employment requirements. Depending on the position, these may include a criminal background investigation, employment and education verification, pre-employment drug screening, driving record review, security clearance eligibility, government installation access, and any other customer or contract-specific requirements. Failure to successfully meet any required pre-employment condition may result in the withdrawal of the contingent offer of employment.
Valkyrie strictly adheres to a policy of equal employment opportunity. This policy is based on Valkyrie's commitment to hire and retain qualified employees consistent with position requirements; and to seek, employ, promote and treat all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religious creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, pregnancy, childbirth, physical disability, mental disability, age, military status or protected veteran status, marital status, registered domestic partner or civil union status, gender (including sex stereotyping and gender identity or expression), medical condition, genetic information or sexual orientation or other protected characteristics
Additionally, Valkyrie Enterprises provides a variety of benefits to eligible employees to support your best health, wellness, and future, to include medical/dental/vision options, company paid life and disability insurances, 401k with match, education reimbursement, as well as company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO)