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Physics Computer Science Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Required : • Bachelor's degree in a quantitative subject: math, physics, computer science, statistics, economics, or a related discipline. • True depth and mastery in at least one quantitative ...

New Professional (NIWC Pacific - FY26)

San Diego, CA · On-site

$87K - $116K/yr

... Physics, Computer Science, Software Engineering, Software Development, Mathematics, Human Factors, Electrical Engineering, Hardware Engineering, Network Engineering, Chemistry, and Biological ...

$87K - $116K/yr

... Physics, Computer Science, Software Engineering, Software Development, Mathematics, Human Factors, Electrical Engineering, Hardware Engineering, Network Engineering, Chemistry, and Biological ...

Minimum Qualifications Bachelors degree in Optics, Physics, Computer Science, EE or Mechanical Engineering and a minimum of 10 years relevant industry experience Experience working in metrology of ...

Minimum Qualifications Bachelors degree in Optics, Physics, Computer Science, EE or Mechanical Engineering and a minimum of 3 years relevant industry experience Experience working in metrology of ...

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Physics Computer Science information

See California salary details

$5

$19

$25

How much do physics computer science jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for physics computer science in California is $19.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.36 and $25.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Does NASA hire physicists?

Yes, NASA hires physicists for roles involving research, data analysis, and technology development related to space science and exploration. Physicists at NASA often work with advanced tools, simulations, and experiments, and may require relevant degrees and security clearances.

What kinds of projects or problems do professionals in Physics Computer Science typically work on?

Professionals in Physics Computer Science often work on projects involving simulation of physical systems, large-scale data analysis from experiments, algorithm development for modeling natural phenomena, or creating custom software for research applications. Their daily responsibilities may include coding, running simulations, analyzing complex datasets, or collaborating with physicists and engineers to solve technical challenges. Many roles are highly collaborative, requiring regular teamwork with multidisciplinary research groups, and offer the opportunity to publish findings or contribute to open-source projects. This environment provides substantial opportunities for learning and professional growth, especially for those interested in fields like scientific research, biotechnology, or advanced engineering.

Is physics useful for computer science?

Physics is useful for computer science, especially in areas like computational modeling, simulations, and hardware development. Understanding physical principles can improve algorithm design, optimize performance, and support fields such as quantum computing and robotics.

Who hires computational physicists?

Computational physicists are hired by research institutions, government laboratories, universities, and private industry companies involved in scientific research, technology development, and data analysis. They often work in environments that require strong programming skills, knowledge of physics, and experience with simulation tools and high-performance computing systems.

What can I do with physics and computer science?

Physics and computer science combined prepare individuals for roles such as data scientists, software developers, simulation engineers, and research analysts. These fields develop skills in programming, data analysis, modeling, and problem-solving, which are valuable in industries like technology, research, finance, and engineering.

What is a Physics Computer Science job?

A Physics Computer Science job involves applying computational methods to solve physics-related problems. Professionals in this field use programming, data analysis, and simulations to model physical systems, develop algorithms, and analyze complex datasets. These roles are common in research institutions, engineering firms, and technology companies working on areas like quantum computing, scientific simulations, and machine learning. Knowledge of both physics principles and computer science techniques is essential for success in this interdisciplinary field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Physics Computer Science position, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Physics Computer Science role, you need a strong understanding of both physics principles and computer science concepts, typically demonstrated through a relevant degree and experience in scientific computing or data analysis. Familiarity with programming languages such as Python, C++, MATLAB, and tools like simulation software or computational frameworks is often required. Analytical thinking, problem-solving ability, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills in this interdisciplinary field. These competencies enable professionals to bridge the gap between theoretical physics and practical computational solutions, driving innovation and accurate research outcomes.

What cities in California are hiring for Physics Computer Science jobs? Cities in California with the most Physics Computer Science job openings:
Infographic showing various Physics Computer Science job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,184 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

Software Engineer, Scientific Computing

Vorticity, Inc

Redwood City, CA • On-site

$130K - $190K/yr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Vorticity is building new scientific computing technology for some of the world's most challenging problems. We are looking for a Software Engineer to join our Applications team. You will work across mathematics, physics, and computer science to build, test, and improve scientific computing applications running on CPUs and GPUs.
This is a broad role on a small team. We are looking for someone who is smart, curious, practical, and excited to learn quickly and build useful technology. The right candidate does not need experience in any particular scientific domain. They should be interested in scientific computing and comfortable working on unfamiliar, multidisciplinary problems.
Responsibilities
  • Develop scientific computing applications and numerical methods.
  • Measure, debug, optimize, and improve computational performance.
  • Work across research, software engineering, testing, and deployment.
  • Contribute wherever needed as the technology and team evolve.
Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree or higher in mathematics, physics, computer science, engineering, or another relevant technical field.
  • Strong Python programming skills.
  • A strong foundation in mathematics, physics, and computer science.
  • Ability to operate at multiple levels of abstraction in a complex software system.
  • Comfort working across disciplines and tackling unfamiliar problems.
Preferred Skills
  • Experience with CUDA or another GPU programming environment.
  • Familiarity with scientific computing, numerical methods, simulations, signal processing, or inverse problems.
  • Experience developing and maintaining production software.

Our Applications team builds scientific software on existing computing hardware while working closely with the broader company as we develop our own Scientific Processing Unit.
As passionate scientists and engineers, we are well aware of the plethora of critical problems in the world that cannot be solved because humanity simply does not have enough computing power. To address this, Vorticity is developing a radically new silicon chip architecture and system to dramatically accelerate scientific computing problems.
Vorticity's mission is to expand human ingenuity. To do that we are building a team of exceptional people to work together on big problems. Join us!