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Physics Degree Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Senior Scientist

Rochester, NY · On-site

$85 - $120/hr

Job Responsibilities * Apply polymer physics knowledge to guide analytical, research and ... S. degree. * Ability to work effectively on a team. * Extensive knowledge in rheology, tribology ...

Bachelor's degree or higher in Engineering (Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, Semiconductor Engineering, or related field). * Understanding semiconductor material science and device ...

Nuclear Engineer

Bloomfield, NY

$108K - $130K/yr

Completion of a rigorous technical degree in engineering, physics, mathematics, or a closely related field that includes strong backgrounds in calculus and physics; outstanding academic record ...

Nuclear Engineer

Fairport, NY

$93K - $112K/yr

Completion of a rigorous technical degree in engineering, physics, mathematics, or a closely related field that includes strong backgrounds in calculus and physics; outstanding academic record ...

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Physics Degree information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$5

$19

$25

How much do physics degree jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for physics degree in Rochester, NY 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.

What can you do with a physics degree?

A physics degree opens up a wide range of career opportunities in fields such as research, engineering, data analysis, technology, finance, and education. Graduates often work as physicists, engineers, data scientists, software developers, or teachers. The problem-solving, analytical, and quantitative skills gained during a physics degree are highly valued in many industries. Additionally, some physics graduates choose to pursue advanced degrees in physics or related fields. The versatility of a physics degree makes it a strong foundation for many professional paths.

What types of career paths can someone with a physics degree pursue outside of academia?

A physics degree opens doors to a wide range of careers beyond traditional research or teaching roles. Many physics graduates find rewarding opportunities in industries such as engineering, data analysis, finance, software development, and technology consulting. Employers value the analytical thinking, quantitative skills, and problem-solving abilities developed during a physics program. Graduates often collaborate closely with interdisciplinary teams and can advance into leadership or specialized roles by gaining experience and further certifications tailored to their chosen industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive with a physics degree, and why are they important?

To thrive with a Physics degree, you need strong analytical thinking, mathematical proficiency, and a solid understanding of physical principles, typically achieved through a bachelor's or higher degree in physics. Familiarity with scientific programming languages (such as Python or MATLAB), laboratory equipment, and data analysis software is often required. Problem-solving skills, curiosity, and effective communication help individuals excel in both research and collaborative settings. These skills are vital for solving complex problems, conducting accurate research, and conveying technical information in diverse scientific and technical careers.

What is the difference between Physics Degree vs Physics Teacher?

AspectPhysics DegreePhysics Teacher
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in Physics or related fieldBachelor's degree in Physics or Education, teaching certification often required
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, industry, academia, or government agenciesSchools, classrooms, educational institutions
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutions, tech companiesPublic and private schools, educational organizations
Common Search & ComparisonFocuses on scientific knowledge and research skillsFocuses on teaching methods and educational impact

The main difference between a Physics Degree and a Physics Teacher lies in their career focus. A Physics Degree provides a strong foundation in physics principles suitable for research, industry, or further study. In contrast, a Physics Teacher applies physics knowledge in educational settings, focusing on teaching students and curriculum development. Both roles require relevant credentials, but their work environments and career paths differ significantly.

Is a physics degree a good degree?

A physics degree provides strong analytical, problem-solving, and quantitative skills that are valuable in various fields such as research, engineering, data analysis, and education. It can lead to careers in academia, industry, or government, often requiring additional specialization or advanced degrees for certain roles.

What job categories do people searching Physics Degree jobs in Rochester, NY look for?

The top searched job categories for Physics Degree jobs in Rochester, NY are:

What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Physics Degree jobs?

Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Physics Degree job openings:

Infographic showing various Physics Degree job openings in Rochester, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,175 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

Physics Laboratory Technical Support and Instruction Assistant II

Rochester Institute of Technology

Rochester, NY • On-site

$21.65 - $34.60/hr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Rochester Institute Of Technology rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 32 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

289th of 622 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Position Highlights
This position will provide direct support of educational, teaching and research laboratories within the School of Physics and Astronomy. Successful candidates will provide broad operational, technical, and instructional support across both undergraduate teaching laboratories and faculty research laboratories. Working closely with faculty, staff, and students, the successful candidate will be responsible for maintaining, troubleshooting, repairing, and developing laboratory equipment and instrumentation; supporting workshop-style physics courses serving approximately 3,500 students annually; assisting with student research and capstone projects; and helping ensure the effective operation of the school's instructional and research infrastructure. This role is central to the successful delivery of the school's educational and research missions.
The position combines hands-on technical expertise with laboratory operations management and requires a high degree of independence, problem-solving, and collaboration.
Key responsibilities include:
Coordinating laboratory equipment preparation and maintenance, supporting faculty instructional and research needs, managing inventories and procurement activities, assisting with equipment design and prototyping projects, providing training and support to students, maintaining laboratory documentation, and ensuring compliance with university safety requirements. The successful candidate will contribute to strategic planning related to laboratory facilities, equipment, and infrastructure while serving as a responsive resource for faculty, staff, and students across the school.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
  • Provides technical guidance and support to students, faculty, and researchers in the design, planning, and execution of research activities
  • Aids in the fabrication, proto-typing, and testing of experimental materials, models, and devices
  • Sets up, calibrates, maintains, and performs minor repairs of laboratory equipment, instruments, and tools for use in demonstrations, experiments, and analyses
  • Prepares and standardizes chemical and biological samples or other materials for experiments
  • Monitors laboratory operations and procedures to promote a safe working environment and ensure adherence to safety protocols. Enforces the proper handling, storage, and disposal of laboratory materials, chemicals, and waste
  • Performs administrative duties related to lab scheduling, resource management, inventory tracking, and record-keeping for research and teaching activities
  • Other duties as assigned

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities
  • Knowledge of laboratory practices, procedures, and operations
  • Knowledge of the standards, regulations, and protocols related to the proper handling, storage, and disposal of laboratory materials, chemicals, and waste
  • Ability to set up, calibrate, trouble shoot, or instruct the use of laboratory equipment and instruments
  • Skill in time management, organization, and multi-tasking in high volume environments
  • Skill in maintaining detailed records of research activities, ensuring documentation is thorough and easily accessible

Minimum Education & Experience
  • Bachelor's degree in related field
  • 5 years of relevant experience
  • Equivalent combination of experience and education may be considered

Job Level Overview
Operations, Administrative, Service, or Technical Support Level 2 - An intermediate level role with working foundational knowledge and skills to perform routine and occasionally non-routine tasks. Tasks may require interpretation or deviation from standard procedures. May provide assistance to entry level staff.
FLSA Category
Non-Exempt
Work Location
On Campus
Compensation
$21.65 - $34.60 Hourly
Application Materials
When you are ready to complete an application for this position please be prepared to submit the below requested information. This will be required to ensure your application is processed in a timely manner.
Cover Letter, Curriculum Vitae or Resume
Candidates must be eligible to work in the United States.
Additional Details
In compliance with NYS's Pay Transparency Act, the salary range for this position is listed above. Rochester Institute of Technology considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, as well as, market and organizational considerations when extending an offer. The hiring process for this position may require a criminal background check and/or motor vehicle records check. Any verbal or written offer made is contingent on satisfactory results, as determined by Human Resources. RIT provides equal opportunity to all qualified individuals and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, age, marital status, sex, gender, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, veteran status or disability in its hiring, admissions, educational programs and activities. RIT provides reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities under the Rehabilitation Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, the New York Human Rights Law, or similar applicable law.
If you need reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process, please contact the Human Resources office at 585-475-2424 or email your request to careers@rit.edu. Determinations on requests for reasonable accommodation will be made on a case-by-case basis.

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About Rochester Institute of Technology

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) is a preeminent institution in the education services industry, located in Rochester, NY, US. Renowned globally for its innovative and industry-aligned education, RIT was established in 1829 and has since then been committed to offering academic rigor in fields of study with an emphasis on applied learning. This is evidenced by their broad spectrum of undergraduate and graduate programs in areas such as engineering, science, business, and fine arts. RIT's mission centers on providing technology-based educational programs for career-minded students.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Rochester, NY, US

Year founded

1829

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