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Physics Assistant Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Health Physics Assistant

Washington, DC · On-site

$31.28 - $56.39/hr

About the Job MedStar Health is looking for a Health Physics Assistant to join our team at Medstar Georgetown University Hospital! Join one of the largest healthcare systems in the Baltimore ...

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Physics Assistant information

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How much do physics assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for physics assistant in Washington is $21.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.16 and $23.94 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 Washington? The most popular types of Physics jobs in Washington are:
What are popular job titles related to Physics Assistant jobs in Washington? For Physics Assistant jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Physics Assistant jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Physics Assistant jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Physics Assistant jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Physics Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Physics Assistant job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,632 per year, or $21.5 per hour.
Health Physics Assistant

Health Physics Assistant

MedStar Health

Washington, DC • On-site

$31.28 - $56.39/hr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Medstar Health rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 238 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

131st of 890 rated healthcare providers


Job description

About the Job
MedStar Health is looking for a Health Physics Assistant to join our team at Medstar Georgetown University Hospital!
Join one of the largest healthcare systems in the Baltimore-Washington metro region, also recognized as one of the "Healthiest Maryland Businesses". Apply today and learn how MedStar Health can be your next great career move!
General Summary of Position
Monitors radiation exposures conducts area surveys performs instrument calibrations and oversees radioactive waste management. Manages the organizational personnel dosimetry program supports Deputy Radiation Safety Officer (DSRO) with Radiopharmaceutical therapies shipment of radioactive materials (RAM) sources and supports the DRSO with the technical lead for radiation spills medical events or lost source investigations ensuring the Radiation Safety Officer is freed to manage institutional communication and regulatory reporting.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities
  • Conducts planning development implementation and oversight of everyday health physics duties for the protection of personnel environment and facilities and regulatory commitments for the Radiation Safety Program.
  • Assists with patient and room surveys especially in cardiovascular brachytherapy procedures radioactive seed implant procedures (prostate and cervical cancer) and I-131 therapy patients (thyroid cancer) before these patients are released per regulatory requirements. Occasionally participates in I-131 therapy patient room preparation dose administration to the patients and decon process. Takes full responsibility to avoid any medical event.
  • Performs leak testing on sealed radioactive sources and for maintenance of ionizing radiation detection devices (internally or from an authorized vendor).
  • Participates occasionally in cleaning radioactive material spills receives/delivers radioactive packages and performs appropriate surveys per Department of Transportation regulations to ensure that the packages are free from contamination. Oversees the radioactive waste program.
  • Provides general surveillance of radiation safety activities including personnel facility and environmental monitoring in the Cath Lab. Evaluate personnel radiation exposure. Provides instructions to thyroid and cervical cancer patients. Conducts patient and area surveys during dose admin. Releases therapy patients from licensee's control per regulation
  • Assists the Radiation Safety Officer and RSC in developing safety programs and in other aspects. Furnish consultation services for personnel on aspects of radiation protection. Checks periodically to see that approved procedures are being used. Provides occasional radiation safety training to the new hires.
  • Receives distributes and monitors radiation badges for all radiation workers in the hospital center. Maintains an internet database for adding deleting and updating dosimetry records. Updates radiation safety officer on overexposures.

Minimal Qualifications
Education
  • Bachelor's degree in radiological science or related field required

Experience
  • 1-2 years of experience identifying monitoring and disposing radioactive waste required
  • 1-2 years experience in handling and calibration of imaging equipment required

Knowledge Skills and Abilities
  • Demonstrated knowledge of current radiation safety regulations and guidelines required.

This position has a hiring range of
USD $31.28 - USD $56.39 /Hr.

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About Medstar Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

MedStar Health is dedicated to providing the highest quality care for people in Maryland and the Washington, D.C., region, while advancing the practice of medicine through education, innovation, and research. Our team of 32,000 includes physicians, nurses, residents, fellows, and many other clinical and non-clinical associates working in a variety of settings across our health system, including 10 hospitals and more than 300 community-based locations, the largest home health provider in the region, and highly respected institutes dedicated to research and innovation. As the medical education and clinical partner of Georgetown University for more than 20 years, MedStar Health is dedicated not only to teaching the next generation of doctors, but also to the continuing education, professional development, and personal fulfillment of our whole team. Together, we use the best of our minds and the best of our hearts to serve our patients, those who care for them, and our communities. It's how we treat people.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Columbia, MD, US

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