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Physics Lab Technician Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Arclin

Senior Lab Technician - Defense

Richmond, VA

Senior Lab Technician / Lab Technologist - Defense The Arclin Aramids business has an immediate ... S. in physical science (chemistry, organic chemistry, physics), engineering or related field and/or ...

Arclin

Senior Lab Technician - Electrical

Richmond, VA · On-site

$17.50 - $23.25/hr

... Lab Technician out of our Richmond, VA Location. This would primarily be an on-site position with ... S. in physical science (chemistry, organic chemistry, physics), engineering or related field. 7+ ...

Arclin

Senior Lab Technician - Electrical

Richmond, VA · On-site

$17.50 - $23.25/hr

... Lab Technician out of our Richmond, VA Location. This would primarily be an on-site position with ... S. in physical science (chemistry, organic chemistry, physics), engineering or related field. 7+ ...

Arclin

Senior Lab Technician - Defense

Richmond, VA · On-site

Senior Lab Technician / Lab Technologist - Defense The Arclin Aramids business has an immediate ... S. in physical science (chemistry, organic chemistry, physics), engineering or related field and/or ...

Ricoh USA, Inc.

Technical Lab Technician

Boulder, CO

$19.75 - $26.25/hr

Assists in lab operation and preventative maintenance tasks, as needed * Notifies more senior ... physics, or mathematics. Technical Associates Degree or Certificate, or equivalent experience in ...

Ricoh USA, Inc.

Technical Lab Technician

Boulder, CO · On-site

$20.13 - $25/hr

Assists in lab operation and preventative maintenance tasks, as needed * Notifies more senior ... physics, or mathematics. Technical Associates Degree or Certificate, or equivalent experience in ...

Acceleron Fusion

Associate Lab Technician

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$50K - $70K/yr

... team as a Junior/Associate Lab Technician. In this role, you will be instrumental in the ... Recent graduate with a degree in Physics, Mechanical, Electrical, or Chemical Engineering, or ...

Mesa Quantum Systems

Quantum Lab Technician

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$18.50 - $24.50/hr

About the Role Mesa Quantum is seeking a Quantum Lab Technician to establish and own the component ... D. with relevant industry experience in Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, Optics, Photonics ...

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How much do physics lab technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for physics lab technician 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 are Physics Lab Technicians?

Physics Lab Technicians are professionals who support the operation and maintenance of laboratory equipment and experiments in educational or research settings. They prepare apparatus and materials for experiments, assist students and researchers, ensure safety protocols are followed, and help maintain accurate records of experimental results. Their role is crucial for the smooth functioning of physics labs, and they often troubleshoot technical issues and manage inventory of lab supplies.

What does a physics lab technician do?

A physics lab technician supports scientific research by setting up, maintaining, and operating laboratory equipment, conducting experiments, and recording data. They often assist physicists with experiments, ensure safety protocols are followed, and may troubleshoot technical issues using tools like oscilloscopes and spectrometers.

What can I do with a BS physics degree?

A BS physics degree prepares individuals for roles such as physics lab technician, where they conduct experiments, maintain lab equipment, and analyze data. Graduates can also work in research, engineering, data analysis, or technical support, often requiring strong problem-solving skills and familiarity with scientific tools and software.

What is the highest paid lab technician?

The highest paid lab technicians are often those working in specialized fields such as pharmaceutical, industrial, or research laboratories, with salaries reaching over $70,000 annually. Advanced certifications, extensive experience, and working in high-demand industries can contribute to higher earnings for lab technicians.

What are some common challenges Physics Lab Technicians face when maintaining laboratory equipment?

Physics Lab Technicians often encounter challenges such as ensuring delicate instruments are calibrated accurately and keeping up with regular maintenance schedules to prevent malfunctions. They must also troubleshoot unexpected issues that arise during experiments, which requires both technical expertise and quick problem-solving skills. Additionally, they need to manage inventory and ensure all safety protocols are followed, especially when working with hazardous materials or high-voltage equipment. Collaboration with researchers and students is essential to address equipment needs and maintain a safe, efficient lab environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Physics Lab Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Physics Lab Technician, you need a solid understanding of physics principles, laboratory techniques, and typically a degree or diploma in physics or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data analysis software, and safety protocols is essential, along with any relevant certifications in laboratory safety. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication are important soft skills for managing experiments and collaborating with researchers and students. These skills ensure accurate data collection, safe operations, and efficient support for scientific research and education.

Will AI replace lab technician?

AI can automate certain tasks in a physics lab, such as data analysis and process control, but it is unlikely to fully replace lab technicians. These professionals are essential for setting up experiments, troubleshooting, and ensuring safety, which require human judgment and expertise. AI tools are more likely to serve as complementary aids rather than complete replacements.

What is the difference between Physics Lab Technician vs Physics Laboratory Assistant?

AspectPhysics Lab TechnicianPhysics Laboratory Assistant
Required CredentialsAssociate's or Bachelor's degree in Physics or related fieldHigh school diploma or equivalent, some technical training
Work EnvironmentEducational institutions, research labs, industrySchools, colleges, research facilities
Job ResponsibilitiesSetting up experiments, maintaining equipment, assisting in researchPreparing materials, cleaning equipment, supporting lab activities

The Physics Lab Technician typically has more advanced education and handles technical tasks and equipment maintenance, while the Physics Laboratory Assistant provides support with basic lab setup and cleaning. Both roles are essential in educational and research settings, but the technician usually has more specialized responsibilities.

More about Physics Lab Technician jobs
What cities are hiring for Physics Lab Technician jobs? Cities with the most Physics Lab Technician job openings:
What states have the most Physics Lab Technician jobs? States with the most job openings for Physics Lab Technician jobs include:
Physics Lab Technician jobs near you
Infographic showing various Physics Lab Technician job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,731 per year, or $20.1 per hour.
PWB Fabrication Technician

PWB Fabrication Technician

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory

Laurel, MD • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory rating

9.9

Company rating: 9.9 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

1st of 57 rated research

Job description

Description
Do you love to build prototypes?
Are you searching for a rewarding career work in electronics manufacturing?
Do you like contributing to challenging problems whose solutions have an important bearing on national security, military readiness, space exploration, national health, and the advancement of science and engineering?
If so, we're seeking someone to join our Printed Circuit Board fabrication team at the Johns Hopkins University - Applied Physics Lab.
APL is seeking a Fabrication Technician to support the fabrication of high reliability and prototype printed circuit boards for government programs. As a member of our team, you'll build hardware that explores other planets and interstellar space through various NASA missions as well as building critical prototype hardware for our nation's national security interests. We are passionate about building electronics to further the missions of our nation. Our team is committed to high reliability and pushing the edge of technology.
As a PWB Fabrication Technician...
  • Your primary responsibility includes working with engineering to build reliable printed circuit boards.
  • You will work in our wet lab to make individual layers of the circuit boards using photolithography techniques (Direct imaging, photoresist developers, chemical etchers, etc.), automated optical inspection equipment, lay-up equipment, and vacuum lamination presses.
  • You will be responsible for maintaining various processing equipment, maintaining a clean and organized work area, following proper safety precautions, and working alongside other technicians and our engineering team.
  • Opportunities to expand and learn additional processing techniques and equipment such as plating, solder mask application, and HASL, among others, may be available.

Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...
  • Hold a High School Diploma.
  • 1+ years experience in a laboratory or production environment.
  • Have experience with laboratory and chemical hygiene practices.
  • Expience working around chemistry and chemicals.
  • Excellent written and verbal communications.
  • Extremely strong organizational skills.
  • Are willing and able to use both chemical and mechanical processes using varying types of equipment.
  • Have a strong mechanical aptitude and willingness to work on equipment repair.
  • Wear safety equipment and can handle containers of chemicals that may weigh up to 50 pounds.
  • Have an aptitude for working on computer-controlled equipment.
  • Are willing to work occasional overtime and or shifted work schedules during periods of high demand.
  • Have experience with Excel and Word.
  • Are able to work on several projects simultaneously with frequent interruptions.
  • Are able to work both independently as well as part of a team.
  • Are a proactive, self-starter who can troubleshoot issues with the aim to minimize schedule disruptions.
  • Have the ability to stand for extended periods of time.
  • 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 exceed our minimum qualifications for the job if you...
  • Experience in a wet lab environment.
  • Experience with ERP or MRP software systems.
  • Experience in electrical assembly.
  • Have good laboratory and chemical hygiene practices.

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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
$25.30 Hourly
Maximum Rate
$50.00 Hourly

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