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Physics Lab Salary Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Quantum Physicist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$130K - $211K/yr

Proficiency in using tools commonly found in an atomic physics lab, such as lasers, acousto-optic ... Benefits The targeted salary range for this role is $130,000 to $211,000 on an annualized basis ...

Quantum Physicist

Boulder, CO · On-site

$130K - $211K/yr

Proficiency in using tools commonly found in an atomic physics lab, such as lasers, acousto-optic ... Benefits The targeted salary range for this role is $130,000 to $211,000 on an annualized basis ...

Proficiency in using tools commonly found in an atomic physics lab, such as lasers, acousto-optic ... Benefits The targeted salary range for this role is $130,000 to $211,000 on an annualized basis ...

Physics and Chemistry Teacher

NJ · On-site

$40K - $60K/yr

Candidates should be able to prepare, conduct and evaluate lab activities for both physics and ... The salary range for this position is $40,000-60,000 per year, commensurate with experience and ...

MA · On-site

... Physics II lab, and Intermediate Electricity and Magnetism, (typically 5-10 students). We also ... Competitive salary and benefits available. Bard College at Simon's Rock is a small, selective ...

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Physics Lab Salary information

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How much do physics lab salary jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for physics lab salary in the United States is $20.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.50 and $25.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Physics Lab Salary vs Physics Technician Salary?

AspectPhysics Lab SalaryPhysics Technician Salary
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Physics or related fieldAssociate's or Bachelor's in Physics or related technical field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, government agenciesIndustrial labs, research facilities, manufacturing
Employer & Industry UsageAcademic, government, research institutionsPrivate companies, manufacturing, applied research

Physics Lab Salary and Physics Technician Salary share similar educational backgrounds and work environments, but Physics Lab roles often require higher degrees and focus more on research, while Physics Technicians typically handle technical support and equipment maintenance in applied settings.

What is the highest paid lab job?

In physics labs, the highest paid roles are often senior research scientists or principal investigators, who can earn six-figure salaries depending on experience, funding, and institution. These positions typically require advanced degrees, extensive research experience, and strong grant-writing skills. Salary levels vary by industry, location, and the specific research environment.

What does a physics lab do?

A physics lab involves conducting experiments and research to study the properties of matter, energy, and fundamental forces. Lab technicians and physicists use specialized equipment like oscilloscopes, particle accelerators, and data analysis tools to test hypotheses and develop new theories in physics. Precision, safety protocols, and a strong understanding of scientific methods are essential in this environment.

Do research labs pay well?

Physics lab salaries vary depending on the type of research, level of experience, and location. Generally, research positions in physics labs offer competitive pay, especially for those with advanced degrees and specialized skills in data analysis, instrumentation, or programming. Salaries can range from moderate to high, with government and private sector labs often providing higher compensation than academic institutions.

What is the highest paid field in physics?

In physics, the highest paid fields are often in aerospace, medical physics, and data science, especially roles involving research, development, and applied technology. Physicists working in industry, such as in engineering or consulting, tend to earn higher salaries than those in academia or teaching, with specialized skills and advanced degrees increasing earning potential.
More about Physics Lab Salary jobs
What cities are hiring for Physics Lab Salary jobs? Cities with the most Physics Lab Salary job openings:
What states have the most Physics Lab Salary jobs? States with the most job openings for Physics Lab Salary jobs include:

Quantum Physicist

Infleqtion

Chicago, IL • On-site

$130K - $211K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 hours ago


Job description

Infleqtion is on a mission to commercialize atom-based quantum technologies that deliver orders-of-magnitude improvements in sensing and computing applications. As a deep-tech startup, we embrace a results-driven, fast-paced, and customer-focused approach to innovation. We are seeking self-motivated, energetic individuals with exceptional problem-solving and technical skills to help drive our Quantum Computing mission forward. We encourage applications from experimental physicists with expertise in Atomic, Molecular, and Optical (AMO) physics, particularly those with experience in the coherent control of quantum systems such as ultracold atoms, trapped ions, and diamond NV centers.

Role and responsibilities
  • Design, build, calibrate and maintain Quantum Computers based on neutral atoms.
  • Participate and/or lead Research and Development projects for laser systems, Quantum Processing Units, quantum gate protocols, etc. for Quantum Computers.
  • Create, test, and validate mathematical models of atomic physics behavior, and use the results to inform system design by translating high-level system requirements into specialized engineering subsystems.
  • Self-start and successfully execute on a new R&D activity given a well-defined goal and constraints (e.g. resources, timeframe): gather requirements from stakeholders, drive definition of solution space, drive project execution.
  • Develop, test, run, and debug software for conducting experiments and system tuning in production.
  • Design, assemble, and test laser and optical systems.
  • Ownership of subsystems to maintain high availability and high performance.
  • Mentor and teach junior team members as indirect reports. Supervise interns.

Requirements

  • PhD in atomic physics, optical physics, or related field; or equivalent related professional experience (4+ years); If you have substantially more experience than this and are excited to apply, please do! We will also consider hiring at the Senior Quantum Physicist level.
  • Proficiency in using tools commonly found in an atomic physics lab, such as lasers, acousto-optic modules, RF signal generators and analyzers, and ultra-high-vacuum systems.
  • Proficiency in writing Python code for running physics experiments.
  • Proficiency in calculating atom-light interaction for input laser specifications.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills, ability to effectively share information with technical and non-technical staff at all levels of company hierarchy.
  • Excellent collaboration skills, ability to work in an agile efficient team environment where engagement, feedback, and participation are an expected part of successful job performance.
  • Demonstrated problem solving skills and fast learning rate.
  • Ability to work both autonomously—taking high-level goals as input to develop and execute an optimal plan while gathering necessary resources—and collaboratively, by soliciting and incorporating input from colleagues.

It is a plus if you have:

  • Experience in operating high power CW laser (> 1 Watt) and/or short-wavelength visible laser (< 500 nm) and designing their laser power delivery systems
  • Experience with characterization and mitigation of laser frequency and intensity noise
  • Experience with analog electronics and use of servo loops for laser and subsystem stabilization
  • Experience with image projection through a high numerical aperture (NA) imaging system
  • Experience in integrating heterogeneous subsystems for a complex physics experiment
  • Familiarity with Git, Linux, and command line interface (CLI) tools
  • Enthusiasm for staying up-to-date with latest developments in AMO physics and reviewing relevant papers for the team

Note

This position may require access to information protected under U.S. export control laws and regulations for quantum computing technology. Please note that any offer for employment may be conditioned on authorization to receive software or technology controlled under these U.S. export control laws and regulations without sponsorship for an export license.

WORKING CONDITIONS and PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Work will normally be performed in an office and laboratory environment and around technical equipment including computers and lasers. We ask that candidates be able to efficiently use automated office equipment such as laptops, copiers, and printers; able to effectively engage in communications (via phone, computer, or in-person). Any required Personal Protective Equipment will be provided and must be properly used in accordance with company requirements.

TRAVEL

Up to 10% travel may be required.

Benefits

The targeted salary range for this role is $130,000 to $211,000 on an annualized basis plus eligibility to participate in our annual incentive plan.

In addition to your base compensation, we offer a generous Total Rewards program which includes:

  • 100% company paid Employee coverage for Medical, Dental, Vision, and Short/Long Term Disability insurance programs
  • Employer funded Health Savings Account
  • Unlimited Paid Time Off
  • 401(k) Matching Programs
  • Company paid Life and AD&D Insurance
  • Flexible Healthcare Savings Account
  • Paid FMLA Leave
  • Paid Maternity/Paternity Leave
  • Employer Assistance Program
  • Student Loan Repayment

Equal Opportunity

Here you have freedom to embrace your whole self: who you love, your gender identity and expression, skin color, age, appearance, disability, neurodiversity, DNA, military/veteran status, citizenship, and other factors that make up who you are. Your uniqueness is valued, welcomed, and appreciated here. We are dedicated to providing a positive workplace and base all employment decisions on your qualifications, performance, merits, as well as business needs. We are proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.

Contact Information

If this opportunity interests you and you fit the job description, please submit an application. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to disability, please feel free to contact us at hr@coldquanta.com.