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Physics Lab Instructor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mercer University

Lab Assistant

Macon, GA · On-site

$10/hr

Prepare equipment and materials for laboratory activities as directed by the Lab instructor and physics faculty. * Support laboratory setup, breakdown, and cleanup processes. * Ensure equipment is ...

Mercer University

Lab Assistant

Macon, GA · On-site

$12/hr

Prepare equipment and materials for laboratory activities as directed by the Lab instructor and physics faculty. * Support laboratory setup, breakdown, and cleanup processes. * Ensure equipment is ...

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Physics Lab Instructor information

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$39K

$46.9K

$52.5K

How much do physics lab instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for physics lab instructor in the United States is $46,902.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,500.00 and $50,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a physics lab instructor do?

A Physics Lab Instructor is responsible for guiding students through laboratory experiments related to physics concepts. They prepare lab materials, demonstrate proper techniques, ensure safety protocols are followed, and help students understand the underlying scientific principles. Additionally, they may grade lab reports, provide feedback, and assist with troubleshooting equipment. Their role is essential in helping students apply theoretical knowledge in a practical, hands-on environment.

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

To thrive as a Physics Lab Instructor, you need a solid background in physics, laboratory techniques, and typically a bachelor's or master's degree in physics or a related field. Familiarity with lab equipment, data analysis software such as MATLAB or LabVIEW, and safety protocols is essential. Strong communication, organizational skills, and the ability to mentor and engage students are standout soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure that labs are run safely, students receive effective instruction, and learning objectives are met.

What are some of the key challenges physics lab instructors face when managing student experiments, and how can they be addressed?

Physics Lab Instructors often encounter challenges such as ensuring student safety, managing limited lab resources, and accommodating varying skill levels among students. To address these, instructors typically establish clear safety protocols, organize equipment efficiently, and provide differentiated instruction to support all learners. Regular communication and collaboration with teaching assistants or faculty can also help maintain a smooth lab environment and enhance the overall learning experience.

What is the difference between Physics Lab Instructor vs Physics Teaching Assistant?

AspectPhysics Lab InstructorPhysics Teaching Assistant
Required CredentialsTypically requires at least a bachelor's degree in physics or related field; some positions prefer or require a master's degreeUsually graduate students pursuing a physics degree; may have similar or fewer certifications
Work EnvironmentWorks in university or college labs, conducting experiments, overseeing student labs, and ensuring safetyAssists professors or instructors in lab setup, grading, and student support, often in the same academic settings
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed by educational institutions to support physics coursesOften employed as graduate assistants or part-time staff in academic institutions

Both roles support physics education in academic settings, with the Physics Lab Instructor typically responsible for leading labs and ensuring safety, while the Physics Teaching Assistant assists instructors and supports students. The main differences lie in their qualifications and specific responsibilities, but both are essential for effective physics lab instruction.

How to become a physics lab instructor?

To become a physics lab instructor, typically a bachelor's degree in physics or a related field is required, along with strong laboratory skills and teaching experience. Some positions may require a master's degree or teaching certification, and familiarity with lab equipment and safety protocols is essential.
More about Physics Lab Instructor jobs

What states have the most Physics Lab Instructor jobs?

States with the most job openings for Physics Lab Instructor jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Physics Lab Instructor jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Physics Lab Instructor jobs are:

Physics Lab Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Physics Lab Instructor job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,902 per year, or $22.5 per hour.

WS - Physics Lab Teaching Assistant - FWS

University of Pikeville

Pikeville, KY • On-site

$10.50/hr

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Physics Lab Teaching Assistant
Division: CAS Department: Physics
Experience: Mid-Level
Job Code: GL Code: FWS
Supervisor of Student Employee(s): Samuel Lane
FWS, IWS, or Grant Funded: ☒ FWS, ☐ IWS, ☐ Grant Funded
Avg. Hours/Week: ☒ 1-5, ☒ 6-10, ☐ 11-15, ☐ 16-20
Requested Start Date: 08/19/2026 Term of Position: ☐ Summer, ☒ Fall, ☒ Spring
The Physics Lab Teaching Assistant (TA) supports the daily operation of undergraduate physics lab courses. The TA plays a key role in preparing laboratory experiments, maintaining a safe and organized lab environment, and assisting with setup and cleanup before and after lab sessions. This position is ideal for students who are detail-oriented, reliable, and interested in gaining experience in academic laboratory environments.
Responsibilities and Career Competencies:
  1. Set up laboratory equipment and experiments prior to scheduled lab sessions, following provided instructions and safety guidelines - CT, T, P
  2. Assist with cleanup and proper storage of equipment after lab sessions - TW, P
  3. Maintain cleanliness and organization of laboratory spaces, including benches, equipment areas, and shared workspaces - P, TW
  4. Organize, label, and tidy lab storage rooms, cabinets, and supply areas - P, CT
  5. Identify and report damaged, missing, or malfunctioning equipment to the lab instructor or coordinator - C, CT, P
  6. Assist with routine inventory checks of lab equipment and supplies, as needed - CT, P, T
  7. Support a safe working environment by following laboratory safety protocols and procedures - P, CT, TW
  8. Perform other related duties as assigned to support the effective operation of the physics labs - TW, P, CSD

Competencies/Skills: Communication (C), Teamwork (TW), Professionalism (P), Career & Self Development (CSD), Critical Thinking (CT), Community Transformation (CTR), Leadership (L), Technology (T)
Qualifications: Current undergraduate student. Successful completion of at least two physics laboratory courses. Ability to follow detailed instructions and safety procedures. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail. Dependable, punctual, and able to work independently when needed.
In the following sections check all boxes that apply to your job.
Computer Skills: ☐ Word, ☐ Excel, ☐ PowerPoint, ☐ Canva, ☐ Social Media & New Technology, ☐ Other:
Other Skills: ☒ Attention to detail, ☐ Strong active listening abilities, ☐ Public speaking, ☒ Written & verbal communication, ☐ Customer focused, ☐ Willingness to learn new things
Work Schedule: ☐ Su ___ to ___; ☐ M ___ to ___; ☐ T ___ to ___; ☐ W ___ to ___; ☐ R ___ to ___; ☐ F ___ to ___; ☐ Sa ___ to ___; ☒ Hours vary depending on workload (Check days that apply, insert hours if set, otherwise, check "Hours vary depending on workload".)
Work Conditions: ☐ Heat, ☐ Cold, ☐ Odors/Smoke, ☐ Toxic Agents, ☐ Dust, ☐ Machinery, ☐ Light Intensity, ☐ Noise, ☐ Vibrations, ☐ Wetness, ☐ Humidity, ☐ Electrical Currents, ☐ Other:
Physical Demands: ☐ Keyboarding, ☒ Reaching/Handling, ☒ Stooping/Kneeling, ☐ Crouching/Crawling, ☐ Pushing up to ___ lbs., ☐ Pulling up to ___ lbs., ☒ Lifting up to _25_ lbs., ☒ Carrying up to _5_ lbs., ☐ Climbing, ☐ Balancing, ☐ Other:
Number of Positions: 2
Pay Rate: 10.50/hr
Location: Building: _ARM_, Room #: _211 and 213____
Additional Comments:
Application Notes: Resumes and applications will be reviewed to determine if you meet the required qualifications for the position. If it is determined that you meet the required qualifications, your application materials will be used to identify a top group of the most highly qualified candidates. The University of Pikeville is an equal opportunity employer committed to assembling a diverse, broadly trained faculty and staff. The University of Pikeville does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, sex, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age or disabilities in its programs, activities, hiring, or the admission of students.

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