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Physics Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Roblox

Principal Software Engineer, Physics

San Mateo, CA

$153K - $206K/yr

You will report to the Physics Environment Engineering Manager. You Will: * Innovate and implement powerful physics features that empower Roblox developers to create immersive and dynamic experiences.

Roblox

Principal Software Engineer, Physics

San Mateo, CA

$153K - $206K/yr

You will report to the Physics Environment Engineering Manager. You Will: * Innovate and implement powerful physics features that empower Roblox developers to create immersive and dynamic experiences.

Roblox

Principal Software Engineer, Physics

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$295K - $345K/yr

You will report to the Physics Environment Engineering Manager. You Will: * Innovate and implement powerful physics features that empower Roblox developers to create immersive and dynamic experiences.

Roblox

Principal Software Engineer, Physics

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$295K - $345K/yr

You will report to the Physics Environment Engineering Manager. You Will: * Innovate and implement powerful physics features that empower Roblox developers to create immersive and dynamic experiences.

Roblox

Principal Software Engineer, Physics

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$345K - $399K/yr

You will report to the Physics Environment Engineering Manager. You Will: * Innovate and implement powerful physics features that empower Roblox developers to create immersive and dynamic experiences.

Mercor

Physics PhD - Theoretical Expert

San Francisco, CA · On-site +1

$70 - $180/hr

Degree must be in Physics rather than applied physics, engineering, or a closely related applied discipline. * Strong graduate-level problem-solving ability across advanced physics topics. * Ability ...

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All JobsPhysics Engineer JobsPhysics Engineer Jobs in California

Physics Engineer information

See California salary details

$47.2K

$120.8K

$196.6K

How much do physics engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for physics engineer in California is $120,850.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,200.00 and $147,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Are physics engineers highly paid?

Physics engineers typically earn competitive salaries due to their specialized knowledge in applying physics principles to engineering problems. Salaries vary based on experience, location, and industry, but they are generally above the average for engineering roles. Advanced skills in simulation tools and research experience can also influence compensation levels.

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

To thrive as a Physics Engineer, you need a strong background in physics, mathematics, and engineering principles, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with simulation software (such as COMSOL or ANSYS), laboratory instrumentation, and data analysis tools is commonly required in this role. Problem-solving ability, analytical thinking, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills for Physics Engineers. These skills and qualifications are crucial for designing, testing, and implementing innovative solutions to complex technical challenges in research and industry.

What does a physics engineer do?

A Physics Engineer applies principles of physics and engineering to design, develop, and improve products, processes, or technologies. They often work in industries such as aerospace, electronics, energy, and manufacturing, using their expertise to solve complex technical problems. Their responsibilities can include conducting experiments, modeling physical systems, analyzing data, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to bring innovative solutions from concept to reality. Physics Engineers bridge the gap between theoretical science and practical engineering applications.

What is the difference between Physics Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectPhysics EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Physics, Engineering, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, R&D departments, technology firmsManufacturing, design firms, automotive, aerospace
Industry UsageHigh-tech industries, research institutions, defenseManufacturing, product design, energy sectors

Physics Engineers focus on applying physics principles to develop new technologies and conduct research, often working in labs or R&D settings. Mechanical Engineers design, analyze, and manufacture mechanical systems, working in industries like automotive, aerospace, and manufacturing. While both roles require strong engineering fundamentals, Physics Engineers tend to emphasize research and theoretical applications, whereas Mechanical Engineers focus on practical design and production.

How does a physics engineer typically collaborate with multidisciplinary teams during project development?

Physics Engineers often work alongside electrical, mechanical, and software engineers, as well as researchers and project managers, to develop innovative solutions. Collaboration usually involves sharing experimental data, integrating physics-based models with engineering designs, and participating in regular team meetings to align goals and troubleshoot challenges. Effective communication and a willingness to translate complex physical concepts into practical applications are key to ensuring project success and fostering a productive team environment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Physics Engineer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Physics Engineer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Physics Engineer jobs in California?

For Physics Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Physics Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Physics Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Physics Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Physics Engineer job openings:

Physics Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Physics Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $120,850 per year, or $58.1 per hour.

Nanoelectronics & Device-Physics Engineer

Astera

Emeryville, CA • On-site

$200K - $230K/yr

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

About Astera
Astera is a private foundation on a mission to steer science and technology toward an abundant future. We believe the coming years will bring an era of unprecedented scientific and technological advancement as exponential progress in AI converges with central advances in other fields to dramatically accelerate innovation. This inflection point provides an unparalleled opportunity to fundamentally rethink the institutions, systems, and tools that drive scientific progress.
Unlike traditional non-profit research organizations, projects supported by Astera operate like high-velocity startups, allowing us to focus on ambitious goals, match structure to problem, and attract strong technical talent and leadership. You can read more about our mission, vision, and programming here.
Position Summary
The Astera Institute is seeking a Nanoelectronics & Device-Physics Engineer to design the electrostatic drive and the field-effect position sensor for a nanoscale actuator, and own its fabrication process and electrical characterization. This position reports to Dr. Jeremy Barton (Astera Institute Resident, Project Lead). This is a full-time position.
Responsibilities
  • Design the electrostatic drive stack - the patterned electrode, insulating (high-k) dielectric, and compliant polymer that deflect the charged DNA-origami plate - to targets of roughly 10 nm of plate displacement and about 100 pN of force at low drive voltage, and validate the dielectric's long-term reliability.
  • Design a field-effect (FET) sensor that reads the mechanism's position electrically, including the low-noise readout needed to resolve nanometer-scale motion for closed-loop control.
  • Define the full device stack - patterned electrode, high-k dielectric, compliant polymer, and the DNA-origami actuator - and direct its fabrication (including electron-beam lithography) at cleanroom partners.
  • Characterize the finished device on the bench: voltage-displacement response, reversibility and hysteresis over many actuation cycles, and force/displacement by single-molecule AFM.
  • Ensure the measurement toolchain can actually resolve the quantities being measured.

Qualifications and Experience
  • PhD or MS in electrical engineering, applied physics, materials science, or a related field, grounded in semiconductor device physics.
  • Experience with high-k dielectrics and thin-film stacks, FET or biosensor charge sensing, and low-noise electrical measurement.
  • Cleanroom process design and working familiarity with electron-beam lithography (running or directing fabrication).
  • Comfort at the bench with nanoscale electromechanical characterization; AFM experience is a plus.
  • Ability to partner closely with molecular-design and controls colleagues on a tightly integrated device.

Location
This position is on site at our office in Emeryville, CA. Some travel may be required from time-to-time for in-person collaboration and work.
Compensation
The posted salary range is based on location in the Bay Area. The successful candidate will receive a competitive compensation package, commensurate with their experience and location.
  • See the Benefits Summary.

Cultural Alignment
  • Surprising problem-solver - you love finding unexpected solutions to problems we don't even know we have, and see options where others only see constraints.
  • Bias to action - you launch and iterate on thoughtful experiments rather than waiting for perfect plans, and you're energized by novel problems.
  • High standards, internally driven - you hold yourself to the bar of building world-class public goods without benchmarking against others.
  • Operate with the highest levels of integrity, judgment, and stewardship - you treat residents, peers, and vendors with genuine respect for their time and contributions.
  • Embrace the tools that define great work today - Astera is building for an AI-driven future and equips the team accordingly; we see these as genuine force multipliers, not optional extras.

Apply