ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Physics Assistant Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

City of Hope

Assistant Physicist

Upland, CA

$119K - $144K/yr

Assistant Physicist - Radiation Oncology (Upland, Full-Time, Exempt status) Join the transformative ... Bachelor's Degree in Physics or Engineering * New grads welcome to apply Pay Range: $93,392/yr ...

City of Hope

Assistant Physicist

Upland, CA

$119K - $144K/yr

Assistant Physicist - Radiation Oncology (Upland, Full-Time, Exempt status) Join the transformative ... Bachelor's Degree in Physics or Engineering * New grads welcome to apply Pay Range: $93,392/yr ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPhysics JobsPhysics Assistant JobsPhysics Assistant Jobs in California

Physics Assistant information

See California salary details

$8

$18

$28

How much do physics assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for physics assistant in California is $18.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.95 and $20.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Physics Assistants and what do they do?

Physics Assistants are individuals who support physics instructors, professors, or researchers in a variety of settings such as universities, laboratories, or educational outreach programs. Their responsibilities typically include assisting with laboratory setup, helping students understand physics concepts, grading assignments, and supporting research activities. They often act as a bridge between students and instructors, providing additional guidance and clarification as needed. Physics Assistants play a key role in creating a productive learning environment and ensuring that experiments and demonstrations run smoothly.

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

To thrive as a Physics Assistant, you need a solid understanding of physics concepts, laboratory techniques, and typically a bachelor's degree in physics or a related field. Familiarity with lab equipment, data analysis software (like MATLAB or Python), and safety protocols is essential. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you support experiments and assist researchers. These skills ensure experiments are conducted accurately, data is reliable, and teamwork in research settings is effective.

What is the lowest salary for a physicist?

The lowest salaries for physicists typically start around $50,000 to $60,000 annually for entry-level positions or those in non-profit or academic settings. Salaries vary based on experience, location, and industry, with more experienced physicists earning significantly higher wages.

How much does a physicist assistant make?

A physics assistant typically earns between $40,000 and $60,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. They often work in research labs or academic settings, utilizing skills in data analysis and laboratory techniques.

What jobs can I do if I like physics?

A physics assistant typically supports research and laboratory work, but if you like physics, you can pursue careers such as physicist, research scientist, data analyst, engineer, or science educator. These roles often require strong analytical skills, knowledge of scientific tools, and sometimes advanced degrees or certifications.

What are some common challenges faced by Physics Assistants when supporting laboratory classes, and how can they be addressed?

Physics Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing multiple student questions simultaneously, troubleshooting experimental setups, and ensuring lab safety. It can be demanding to provide individualized help while keeping the class on track. To address these challenges, clear communication, strong organizational skills, and a solid understanding of the experiments are essential. Collaborating closely with instructors and proactively preparing for each lab session can help Physics Assistants effectively support both students and faculty.

What does a physicist assistant do?

A physics assistant supports physicists by conducting experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and maintaining laboratory equipment. They often assist with research projects, prepare reports, and may use tools like spectrometers or computer simulations to aid scientific investigations.

What is the difference between Physics Assistant vs Physics Laboratory Technician?

AspectPhysics AssistantPhysics Laboratory Technician
Required CredentialsAssociate's degree or relevant certificationAssociate's degree or technical certification
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, educational institutionsResearch labs, educational institutions, government agencies
Employer & Industry UsageAcademic, research, and educational sectorsResearch institutions, universities, government labs
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for support roles in physics labsMore technical, hands-on role in lab operations

The main difference between a Physics Assistant and a Physics Laboratory Technician lies in their responsibilities and technical focus. Physics Assistants typically support research and educational activities, while Physics Laboratory Technicians handle more technical and operational tasks within labs. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and are found in academic and research settings, but their specific duties vary based on the level of technical expertise needed.

What are the most commonly searched types of Physics jobs in California? The most popular types of Physics jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Physics Assistant jobs in California? For Physics Assistant jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Physics Assistant jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Physics Assistant jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Physics Assistant jobs? Cities in California with the most Physics Assistant job openings:
Physics Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Physics Assistant job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,891 per year, or $18.7 per hour.

Department of Physics - Assistant/Associate Professor, Tenure Track

La Sierra University

Riverside, CA

Full-time

Medical

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

The Department of Physics invites applications for a full-time, tenure-track faculty position to begin on one of two possible starting dates as follows: January 1, 2027 or July 1, 2027, at assistant professor or associate professor rank. Applicants must meet the University's requirements for faculty rank of Assistant or Associate Professor, including a terminal degree earned in the field, and demonstrate a clear potential for excellence in teaching and research. Candidates near the completion of a terminal degree will also be considered.

The successful applicant will be responsible for teaching about 2-3 lecture courses and 1-2 lab courses per quarter, conducting original research, advising, and serving on various committees on campus. Candidates with expertise in any area of physics or biophysics are encouraged to apply, with preference given to those who can teach upper division biophysics courses.

While full-faculty are paid throughout the 12 months of the year, the appointment is for the 9-months academic year. Initially, the primary responsibilities will be focused on teaching lower division service courses with their associated labs. It is expected that over time the teaching load will adjust to include upper division physics or biophysics courses, as needed. Other responsibilities will be to conduct original research while involving undergraduate students and participating in committee service as part of the shared governance model of La Sierra University.

The successful candidate will 1) effectively teach a variety of physics and biophysics courses to a diverse student body, promoting both accessibility and high achievement, 2) successfully interact with students in a lab setting and in office hours, 3) supervise student lab assistants, 4) involve students in research while teaching them skills to be successful independent and creative thinkers who can contribute to the scientific community, and 5) regularly attend departmental faculty meetings, school meetings, and school/university committees. This position does not require applying for external grants for funding research, but it is encouraged.

Qualifications 

Candidates are required to have a PhD in physics, biophysics, or a related field. Significant teaching experience at the undergraduate level is desired, including both lower division service courses and upper division major courses.  Post-doctoral experience with a track record of sustainable original research is preferred. To be considered for the rank of associate professor, a candidate must have a teaching and research record lasting at least five years, including at least two publications as primary author. Preference will be given to candidates who are Seventh-day Adventist.

Salary Wage Range: $70,304 to $78,501 plus generous benefits: 

Assistant professor - PhD $70,304

Associate professor - PhD $71,872 - $78,501

Benefits include:

  • Comprehensive health coverage 
  • Tuition Assistance (spouse and dependent eligibility)
  • FSA, Pet Insurance, Legal Services, Identity Protections Services, and more!

Apply