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Physicist Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

$83.22 - $128.99/hr

Assists dosimetrists and physicians in special physics consultation(s) to evaluate feasibility of IMRT, SRS, SBRT and other therapeutic external beam delivery. Assists therapists in patient set-up ...

Physicist

Tuckahoe, VA · On-site

$172K - $259K/yr

As a(an) Physicist with Johnston-Willis Hospital you can be a part of an organization that is devoted to giving back! Benefits Johnston-Willis Hospital, offers a total rewards package that supports ...

Physicist

Mechanicsville, VA · On-site

$172K - $259K/yr

As a(an) Physicist with Johnston-Willis Hospital you can be a part of an organization that is devoted to giving back! Benefits Johnston-Willis Hospital, offers a total rewards package that supports ...

Physicist

Richmond, VA · On-site

$172K - $259K/yr

As a(an) Physicist with Johnston-Willis Hospital you can be a part of an organization that is devoted to giving back! Benefits Johnston-Willis Hospital, offers a total rewards package that supports ...

Junior Proton Physicist- days

Roanoke, VA · On-site

$158K - $252K/yr

R159888 Junior Proton Physicist- days (Open) How You'll Help Transform Healthcare: Up to $30,000 new hire sign on bonus and up to $7,000 in relocation assistance is available: Carilion Clinic ...

Inova Center for Personalized Health is looking for a dedicated Radiation Physicist to join the team. This role is Full-Time Monday through Friday Day Shift. Sign on bonus eligible Inova is ...

Radiation Physicist

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$200K - $327K/yr

Inova Center for Personalized Health is looking for a dedicated Radiation Physicist to join the team. This role is Full-Time Monday through Friday Day Shift. Sign on bonus eligible. Inova is ...

Showing results 21-40

Physicist information

See Virginia salary details

$39.2K

$94K

$224.6K

How much do physicist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for physicist in Virginia is $93,991.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,500.00 and $111,000.00 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 use skills in problem-solving, mathematical modeling, and laboratory techniques, and may require advanced degrees or certifications depending on the role.

What are the most commonly searched types of Physicist jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Physicist jobs in Virginia are:

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

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

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Physicist jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Physicist job openings:

Infographic showing various Physicist job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,991 per year, or $45.2 per hour.

$118K/yr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


U.S. Department Of The Interior rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

415th of 846 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

The government-wide direct hire authority for STEM Physical Sciences 1306 Series is being used to fill this position.
There is only one vacancy that may be filled at the following locations: Lakewood, CO or Reston, VA. The location will be determined when a selection is made.
Salary:
Lakewood, CO: $118,675 (Step 01) to $154,280 (Step 10)
Reston, VA: $121,785 (Step 01) to $158,322 (Step 10)
NOTE: First time hires to the Federal Government are typically hired at the Step 01.
Qualifications:Basic Education Requirement: Applicants must meet A or B below to satisfy the basic education requirement for Health Physicist, all grade levels.
A. Successful completion of a full 4-year course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a bachelor's or higher degree in natural science or engineering that included at least 30 semester hours in health physics, engineering, radiological science, chemistry, physics, biology, mathematics, and/or calculus.
**OR
B. A combination of education and experience-- courses as shown in A above, plus appropriate experience or other education; or certification as a health physicist by the American Board of Health Physics, plus appropriate experience and other education that provided an understanding of sciences applicable to health physics comparable to that described in paragraph A.
In addition to the basic education requirement as stated above, applicants must meet the following to qualify for the GS-13 level:
One year of appropriate professional experience that is in or directly related to the duties of the position to be filled is qualifying if it is equivalent to at least the GS-12 level in the Federal service, and if it equipped the applicant with the knowledge, skills and abilities to perform successfully the duties of the position.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE is defined as: experience that demonstrates experience in the technical aspects of radiation safety programs and policies and inspections that require work with radiological safety technology, including radiation physics and dosimetry, with particular emphasis on the use of ionizing radiation in science and industry. Candidates should also have recent experience associated with a regulatory program focused on safety.
You must meet all qualification and eligibility requirements for the position by the closing date of the announcement.Education:
  • 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.
  • 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:https://www.usgs.gov/human-capital/how-foreign-education-evaluated-federal-jobs
Employment Type: OTHER

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