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Physicist Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

City of Hope

Senior Physicist

Irvine, CA

Senior Physicist - Radiation Oncology (Exempt status) (Irvine, CA) Join the transformative team at City of Hope, where we're changing lives and making a real difference in the fight against cancer ...

Fuse

Computational Physicist

San Leandro, CA · On-site

In this role, you will leverage your expertise in physics, mathematics, and computational methods to develop models and simulations that explore complex physical systems and phenomena. Your work will ...

LLNL

Senior Laser Modeling Physicist

Livermore, CA · On-site

  • Retirement

We have an opening for a highly experienced Senior Laser Modeling Physicist to independently guide the development, research, design, analysis, modeling, testing, and fielding of advanced laser ...

LLNL

Senior Laser Modeling Physicist

Livermore, CA · On-site

$9.8K/wk

  • Retirement

We have an opening for a highly experienced Senior Laser Modeling Physicist to independently guide the development, research, design, analysis, modeling, testing, and fielding of advanced laser ...

TAE

Experimental Plasma Physicist

Foothill Ranch, CA · On-site

$125K - $140K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Scientist (Experimental Plasma Physicist) will develop, implement, and oversee advanced diagnostic systems focused on radiation and fast ion physics for the C-2W fusion device. This role involves ...

TAE

Accelerator Physicist - Medical Beams

Irvine, CA · On-site

$140K - $160K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As a part of the TAE Beams group, the Accelerator Physicist will accept responsibilities to develop, commission, and operate components, subsystems, and complete particle accelerators for medical and ...

LLNL

Senior Laser Modeling Physicist

Livermore, CA · On-site

  • Retirement

We have an opening for a highly experienced Senior Laser Modeling Physicist to independently guide the development, research, design, analysis, modeling, testing, and fielding of advanced laser ...

Moffitt

Medical Physicist

Long Beach, CA

$181K - $275K/yr

Summary The Clinical Physicist I performs activities to assure the safe and effective delivery of radiation therapy as prescribed by Radiation Oncology physicians. Clinical Physicist I will work ...

US Department of the Air Force

PHYSICIST

Edwards, CA

$49K/yr

Physics; or related degree that included at least 24 semester hours in physics. You may qualify if you meet one of the following: 1. GS-7 : You must have completed or will complete a 4-year course of ...

Nudge

MR Physicist

San Francisco, CA · On-site

About the role As an MR physicist at Nudge, you will: * Develop novel MRI pulse sequences and image reconstruction algorithms that push the envelope of sensitivity and precision for targeting and ...

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All JobsPhysicist JobsPhysicist Jobs in California

Physicist information

See California salary details

$39K

$93.6K

$223.5K

How much do physicist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for physicist in California is $93,563.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,200.00 and $110,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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 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.

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 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.
More about Physicist jobs

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For Physicist jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Physicist jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Physicist jobs in California are:

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Cities in California with the most Physicist job openings:

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Physicist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Physicist job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 8% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,563 per year, or $45 per hour.

Senior Physicist

City of Hope

Irvine, CA

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

City Of Hope rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 90 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

25th of 887 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Senior Physicist - Radiation Oncology (Exempt status) (Irvine, CA)

Join the transformative team at City of Hope, where we're changing lives and making a real difference in the fight against cancer, diabetes, and other life-threatening illnesses. City of Hope's growing national system includes its Los Angeles campus, a network of clinical care locations across Southern California, a new cancer center in Orange County, California, andtreatment facilitiesin Atlanta, Chicago and Phoenix. Our dedicated and compassionate employees are driven by a common mission: To deliver the cures of tomorrow to the people who need them today.  

City of Hope Orange County Lennar Foundation Cancer Center is home to many of the world's best minds in preventing, treating and curing cancer. The 190,000-square-foot cancer center of the future is patient-focused, offering breakthrough research and pioneering treatments, ushering in a new era of hope for people with cancer. CLICK HERE to learn more about the Lennar Foundation Cancer Center!

We are seeking a full-time, Board-Certified Medical Physicist to join our dynamic team at City of Hope - Irvine. You will be part of a thriving community of over 20 Medical Physicists across Southern California, including Irvine. Seamlessly connected to the Lennar Foundation Cancer Center, the hospital was intentionally designed with and for the community it serves.  

City of Hope Orange County Cancer Specialty Hospital is a provider-based facility of City of Hope National Medical Center, a general acute care hospital. Together, we complete the region's most advanced and fully integrated cancer care network, expanding access to specialized expertise, innovative acute and outpatient treatments, novel clinical trials, and groundbreaking technologies.  

What You'll Do:

        Lead advanced radiation treatment planning including dose calculations, plan optimization, radiation protection, and rigorous quality assurance to ensure safe, effective, and patient-specific therapies.

        Collaborate seamlessly with a multidisciplinary team-radiation oncologists, dosimetrists, therapists, and other clinical staff-demonstrating exceptional communication skills to ensure clear documentation, coordinated workflows, and superior patient care.

        Leverage state-of-the-art technology to design, implement, and optimize precise cancer treatment solutions, maintaining the highest standards of safety and clinical effectiveness.

o   Software:  Aria, Eclipse, Oncentra, ViewRay, Ethos, Mobius, EPIC

o   Hardware: Varian Truebeam, Ethos, Vieway MRIDian, Elekta Flexitron, Siemens Open.go.pro, Sun Nuclear profilers, IBA 2D water tank

Your qualifications should include:

        PhD in Physics or related field

        5 years of clinical experience in Radiation Physics

        ABR or ACMP certification (or eligibility, with certification within 2 years of hire)

        Strong team player with excellent communication skills-you'll thrive in a collaborative, patient-focused environment, working closely with colleagues to ensure every patient receives the best care possible

        Highly preferred:

o   Experience in a large radiation physics program with multiple machine modalities and services

o   Eclipse and HDR experience

At City of Hope, you won't just have a job-you'll have a mission. You'll contribute to groundbreaking care, collaborate with brilliant colleagues, and directly impact lives every day.

City of Hope employees pay is based on the following criteria: work experience, qualifications, and work location. City of Hope is an equal opportunity employer. To learn more about our Comprehensive Benefits, please CLICK HERE.

What City Of Hope employees say

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Benefits

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Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

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About City of Hope

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

City of Hope is an independent biomedical research and treatment organization for cancer, diabetes and other life-threatening diseases. Founded in 1913, City of Hope is a leader in bone marrow transplantation and immunotherapy such as CAR T cell therapy. City of Hopes translational research and personalized treatment protocols advance care throughout the world. Human synthetic insulin, monoclonal antibodies and numerous breakthrough cancer drugs are based on technology developed at the institution. AccessHope, a subsidiary launched in 2019 serves employers and their health care partners by providing access to City of Hopes specialized cancer expertise. City of Hope is ranked among the nations Best Hospitals in cancer by U.S. News & World Report and received Magnet Recognition from the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Its main campus is located near Los Angeles, with additional locations throughout Southern California and in Arizona.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Duarte, CA, US

Year founded

1913

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