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Physics Lab Assistant Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Field Test Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$85 - $120/hr

Bachelor's degree in engineering, computer science, mathematics, physics, or other STEM field; or ... Ability to communicate with senior warfighters and test leads and assist with the test execution.

Showing results 41-60

Physics Lab Assistant information

See Washington, DC salary details

$11

$22

$33

How much do physics lab assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for physics lab assistant in Washington, DC is $22.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.80 and $26.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a physics lab assistant?

A Physics Lab Assistant supports laboratory operations by preparing equipment, setting up experiments, and ensuring safety protocols are followed. They assist students and researchers by maintaining lab instruments, recording data, and troubleshooting technical issues. Their role is essential in ensuring a smooth and organized lab environment.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a physics lab assistant?

As a Physics Lab Assistant, your daily tasks may include preparing laboratory equipment, setting up experiments, monitoring experiments during lab sessions, and assisting students or researchers with technical issues. You are often responsible for keeping the lab organized, ensuring safety protocols are followed, and recording or analyzing experimental data. Collaboration is common, as you’ll work closely with supervisors, faculty, and students to support laboratory activities. This hands-on role provides valuable experience for those interested in scientific research, teaching, or pursuing further studies in physics.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a physics lab assistant?

To thrive as a Physics Lab Assistant, you need a solid understanding of physics principles, laboratory procedures, and safety protocols, often supported by coursework or a degree in physics or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data collection software, and occasionally OSHA or lab safety certifications is typically required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are key soft skills that distinguish top candidates. These abilities ensure accurate experiment execution, reliable data collection, and a safe, collaborative work environment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Physics Lab jobs in Washington, DC?

The most popular types of Physics Lab jobs in Washington, DC are:

What are popular job titles related to Physics Lab Assistant jobs in Washington, DC?

For Physics Lab Assistant jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Physics Lab Assistant jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Physics Lab Assistant jobs in Washington, DC are:

Infographic showing various Physics Lab Assistant job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,697 per year, or $22.9 per hour.

$21.50 - $29.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 74 rated research


Job description

Description
Are you seeking an opportunity to apply your carpentry skills doing complex construction projects?
Do you have hands-on experience within carpentry and construction?
If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team.
The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL), a national leader in scientific research and development, located midway between Baltimore and Washington, DC is seeking an Carpenter.
As a Carpenter in Design and Construction, you will...
  • Build, install, alter, and repair structures and fixtures such as scaffolding, ladders, concrete chutes and forms, framework with wood and metals studs, drywall, suspended ceilings, roofing, flooring, doors, windows, and furniture.
  • Build standard shipping containers and crates
  • Work from sketches, diagrams, and/or architectural/engineering drawings, using carpenter's marking and measuring instruments (tapes, rules, levels, plumb bobs, and squares) hand tools (hammers, handsaws, chisels, planes, screwdrivers, etc.) and power tools of the trade (such as power-saws and power-nailers) to craft, fasten, fit, and assemble structures and fixtures
  • Use building and masonry materials such as sand, brick, cement, block, structural tile, and concrete to lay out, dig, form, construct, repair, and restore foundations, footings, walls, partitions, sewers, walks, floors, and other structures.
  • At times work at heights and may be required to lift heavy objects
  • Load, unload, and transport construction materials, tools, and equipment
  • Remove debris and maintain a clean and organized work environment.
  • Operate hand tools and power tools safely and effectively.
  • Erect and dismantle temporary structures, such as scaffolding and barriers.
  • Follow all safety regulations, company policies, and site procedures.
  • Perform other duties as assigned by supervisors or operations lead

Working Conditions
  • Standard schedule: day shift, with flexibility for extended hours or weekend work during peak periods or outages
  • Will involve operating APL vehicles and industrial equipment (subject to motor vehicle record review)
  • Work may occur outdoors or in confined spaces and may require climbing ladders, scaffolds, or working at heights
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds and assist other trades as needed
  • Regular participation in required EPA and OSHA/MOSH safety certifications, including PPE, confined space entry, fall protection, lockout/tagout, forklifts, and related training

Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...
  • Have a High School Diploma or equivalent with the ability to read, write and understand English
  • Have formal carpentry coursework from a trade school or one year apprentice or two or more years as a carpenter
  • Have the ability to set-up and operate tools and equipment associated with the carpentry trade
  • Possess effective communications skills, both verbal and written, have experience with Microsoft Office Suite
  • Possess a valid state of residence driver's license. The selected candidate will be subject to a motor vehicle record check
  • Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions.
  • Frequent standing, walking, bending, kneeling, and climbing.
  • Comfortable working at heights and in varying environmental conditions.
  • Strong work ethic, reliability, and teamwork skills.
  • Ability to follow instructions and safety guidelines.
  • Positive attitude and effective communication.
  • Are able to obtain a Secret level security clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...
  • Previous construction experience in another trade
  • Previous experience on a research lab campus
  • Possess experience with Microsoft Office Suite

About Us
Why Work at APL?
The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.
At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accessibility@jhuapl.edu.
The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Minimum Rate
$22.05 Hourly
Maximum Rate
$46.45 Hourly

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