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Physicist Jobs in Bellingham, WA (NOW HIRING)

Nuclear Engineer

Mount Vernon, WA

$110K - $132K/yr

Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design, reactor physics, materials development, component design for steam generators, pumps, and valves ...

Nuclear Engineer

Lynden, WA

$101K - $122K/yr

Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design, reactor physics, materials development, component design for steam generators, pumps, and valves ...

Nuclear Engineer

Blaine, WA

$101K - $121K/yr

Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design, reactor physics, materials development, component design for steam generators, pumps, and valves ...

Nuclear Engineer

Nooksack, WA

$100K - $120K/yr

Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design, reactor physics, materials development, component design for steam generators, pumps, and valves ...

Nuclear Engineer

Bow, WA

$104K - $125K/yr

Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design, reactor physics, materials development, component design for steam generators, pumps, and valves ...

Nuclear Engineer

Burlington, WA

$101K - $122K/yr

Key Responsibilities Provide technical direction in areas such as reactor and fluid systems design, reactor physics, materials development, component design for steam generators, pumps, and valves ...

A desired degree is in physics, physics-based oceanography, meteorology, hydrography, earth science, engineering, or mathematics. Qualifications All Navy jobs require meeting general enlistment or ...

A desired degree is in physics, physics-based oceanography, meteorology, hydrography, earth science, engineering, or mathematics. Qualifications All Navy jobs require meeting general enlistment or ...

A desired degree is in physics, physics-based oceanography, meteorology, hydrography, earth science, engineering, or mathematics. Qualifications All Navy jobs require meeting general enlistment or ...

A desired degree is in physics, physics-based oceanography, meteorology, hydrography, earth science, engineering, or mathematics. Qualifications All Navy jobs require meeting general enlistment or ...

A desired degree is in physics, physics-based oceanography, meteorology, hydrography, earth science, engineering, or mathematics. Qualifications All Navy jobs require meeting general enlistment or ...

A desired degree is in physics, physics-based oceanography, meteorology, hydrography, earth science, engineering, or mathematics. Qualifications All Navy jobs require meeting general enlistment or ...

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Showing results 1-20

Physicist information

See Bellingham, WA salary details

$41.1K

$98.5K

$235.4K

How much do physicist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for physicist in Bellingham, WA is $98,540.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,300.00 and $116,400.00 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 job categories do people searching Physicist jobs in Bellingham, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Physicist jobs in Bellingham, WA are:

What cities near Bellingham, WA are hiring for Physicist jobs?

Cities near Bellingham, WA with the most Physicist job openings:

Infographic showing various Physicist job openings in Bellingham, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, and 67% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $98,540 per year, or $47.4 per hour.

Physics/Astronomy - Non-Tenure Track Faculty Vacancy Pool

Western Washington University

Bellingham, WA • On-site

$1.1K - $1.5K/wk

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 13 days ago


Western Washington University rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

289th of 621 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Physics/Astronomy - Non-Tenure Track Faculty Vacancy Pool
Work type: NTT Faculty
Location: Bellingham, WA
Categories: College of Science & Engineering
Position Title Physics/Astronomy - Non-Tenure Track Faculty Vacancy Pool
About the University
Western Washington University, with over 15,000 students in seven colleges and the graduate school, is nationally recognized for its educational programs, students and faculty. The campus is located in Bellingham, Washington, a coastal community of 90,000 overlooking Bellingham Bay, the San Juan Islands and the North Cascades Mountain range. The city lies 90 miles north of Seattle and 60 miles south of Vancouver, British Columbia. Western has additional sites in Anacortes, Bremerton, Everett, Port Angeles, and Poulsbo. Western is recognized nationally for its successes, such as being named one of the top public master's-granting institutions in the Pacific Northwest for 25 years in a row by U.S. News & World Report.
Western Washington University is committed to achieving excellence through advancing inclusive success, increasing our Washington impact, and focusing on transformational education grounded in the liberal arts and sciences and based on innovative scholarship, research, and creative activity. Western's greatest strength is the outstanding students, faculty, staff, and alumni/ae who make up its community. Western supports an inclusive governance structure for all and provides a learning and working environment in which everyone can thrive. In pursuit of this excellence, individual employees are expected to establish and maintain productive and effective inclusive working relationships amongst diverse populations including staff, faculty, administration, student, and external constituents. Further, individual employees are expected to have the ability to operationalize sustainability concepts (economic, societal, environmental) into all aspects of performing their job duties.
About the Department The College of Science and Engineering and the Department of Physics & Astronomy support Western's mission, which states that together with our students, staff, and faculty, we are committed to making a positive impact in the state and the world with a shared focus on academic excellence and inclusive achievement. We encourage applications from women, people of color, people with disabilities, veterans, and other candidates from underrepresented backgrounds and with diverse experiences interested in this opportunity.
About the Position
The Department of Physics & Astronomy maintains a vacancy pool of qualified persons interested in temporary teaching positions. In anticipation of possible openings throughout the academic year and summer sessions, applications are accepted continuously for temporary non-tenure track teaching positions on a part-time basis with occasional opportunities for temporary, full-time appointments. Positions may become available at any time and are typically filled on a quarterly basis.
Position Responsibilities: Lecture and/or lab instruction in Physics and/or Astronomy courses
Required Qualifications
  • M.S. in Physics, Astronomy or related field, or at least five years of experience with college-level physics instruction
  • Ability to work effectively with diverse students, faculty and staff, and commitment to cultivating learning environments that are equitable and inclusive of students with diverse social identities and backgrounds
  • Commitment to evidence-based, student-centered teaching methods

Preferred Qualifications
  • PhD in Physics, Astronomy or related field
  • Demonstrated successful teaching experience

Conditions of Employment All employees must comply with our Immunization policies, including Proof of Rubeola Measles Immunity within 60-days of hire. Please reach out to HR@wwu.edu if you need information regarding medical or religious exemption and applicable accommodations.
Salary
$1,175 - $1,577 per credit hour, commensurate with experience and qualifications
Benefits Information Benefits Overview for Faculty Positions
Bargaining Unit
United Faculty of Western Washington
Application Instructions
A letter of application addressing the above qualifications, teaching experience, a curriculum vitae, and contact information of three references are required. In your cover letter, please specifically address your ability to work effectively with diverse students, faculty and staff, as well as commitment to cultivating learning environments that are equitable and inclusive of students with diverse social identities and backgrounds.
Closing Date Notes
Applications are accepted continuously for potential NTT faculty openings; please apply at your earliest convenience. Vacancy pool closes no later than August 31, 2027.
Western Washington University (WWU) is an equal opportunity employer. In compliance with applicable laws, WWU does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, age, citizenship or immigration status, pregnancy, use of protective leave, genetic status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, creed, religion, veteran or military status, disability or the use of a trained guide dog or service animal (including a service animal in training) by a person with a disability, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law, in its programs or activities, including employment, admissions, and educational programs. See WWU's Policies on Prohibiting Discrimination Based on A Protected Class and Prohibiting Discrimination Based on Sex. Inquiries may be directed to the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX Compliance, Title IX and ADA Coordinator, Western Washington University, Old Main 126 (MS 9021), 516 High Street, Bellingham, WA 98225; 360.650.3307 (voice) or 711 (Washington Relay); crtc@wwu.edu
WWU is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. To request this document in an alternate format or to request an accommodation, please contact Human Resources Disability Services, 360.650.3751 or 711 (Washington Relay).
Annual Security and Fire Safety Report: This report is provided pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act ("The Clery Act"). It includes statistics for the previous three calendar years concerning reported crimes that occurred on Western's campus; in certain off-campus buildings or property owned or controlled by Western; and on public property within, or immediately adjacent to and accessible from, the campus. The report also includes institutional policies concerning campus security, such as policies concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. You can obtain a copy of this report in printed or alternate formats by contacting the Office of Student Life at student.life@wwu.edu. The report can be found at: Annual Security and Fire Safety Report.
All new employees must comply with the immunization policy and show employment eligibility verification as required by the U.S. Citizen and Immigration Service before beginning work at WWU. A thorough background check will be conducted on all new hires and rehires, which includes a sexual misconduct background check.
Job no: 503172
Advertised: Aug 10 2026 09:00 Pacific Daylight Time
Applications close: Aug 31 2027 23:55 Pacific Daylight Time
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