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Physics Lab Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

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Physics Lab information

What are some typical challenges faced when working in a physics lab, and how can they be addressed?

Working in a physics lab often involves troubleshooting complex equipment, maintaining precise measurement standards, and ensuring safety protocols are strictly followed. Challenges can include instrument malfunctions, unexpected experimental results, or managing hazardous materials. To address these issues, it's important to develop strong problem-solving skills, collaborate closely with team members, and stay up to date with the latest lab safety and equipment training. Open communication within the team and thorough documentation of procedures can also help resolve issues more efficiently.

What is the highest paid lab job?

In a physics lab, the highest paid roles are typically senior research scientists or laboratory directors, often earning six-figure salaries. These positions usually require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and expertise in specialized equipment or research areas. Compensation varies based on industry, location, and level of responsibility.

What are physics lab jobs?

Physics lab jobs typically involve working in a laboratory setting to conduct experiments, collect and analyze data, and support scientific research in the field of physics. These roles can include laboratory technicians, research assistants, or lab managers, and may require setting up equipment, maintaining safety protocols, and collaborating with physicists and other scientists. Physics lab professionals play a crucial role in advancing knowledge through hands-on experimentation and technical support.

Do physicists work in labs?

Yes, physicists often work in laboratories where they conduct experiments, collect data, and analyze physical phenomena. Laboratory work is a common part of many physics roles, requiring skills in using scientific tools and equipment, and often involving safety protocols and precise measurements.

What are 5 potential jobs for physics?

Five potential jobs for physics graduates include research scientist, physics teacher, data analyst, medical physicist, and engineering consultant. These roles often require strong analytical skills, knowledge of scientific tools, and sometimes advanced degrees or certifications. Physics backgrounds are valuable in industries such as education, healthcare, technology, and research institutions.

What do people do in a physics lab?

In a physics lab, professionals conduct experiments, collect data, and analyze results to study physical phenomena. They often use specialized tools and equipment such as oscilloscopes, spectrometers, and particle accelerators, and may work collaboratively to develop new theories or applications.

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 procedures, and a relevant associate or bachelor's degree in science. Familiarity with lab equipment, data acquisition software, and safety protocols is typically required, along with certifications like OSHA training. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help ensure experiments run smoothly and results are accurately reported. These skills and qualities are vital for maintaining safety, supporting research, and ensuring reliable scientific outcomes in the lab environment.

What is the difference between Physics Lab vs Physics Technician?

AspectPhysics LabPhysics Technician
Required CredentialsTypically requires a degree in physics or related fieldOften requires an associate degree or technical certification in physics or related technical fields
Work EnvironmentAcademic, research, or university laboratoriesIndustrial, research facilities, or government labs
Job ResponsibilitiesConducting experiments, data analysis, research developmentMaintaining equipment, assisting with experiments, technical support
Industry UsagePrimarily academic and research institutionsIndustrial, government, and research organizations

Physics Lab roles focus on conducting experiments and research, often requiring a physics degree. Physics Technicians support laboratory operations with technical skills, often with technical certifications. Both roles are essential in research environments but differ mainly in education requirements and job responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Physics Lab jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Physics Lab jobs in Washington are:
What are popular job titles related to Physics Lab jobs in Washington? For Physics Lab jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Physics Lab job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 90% In-person, and 10% Hybrid job distribution.
PWB Fabrication Technician-Laurel,Maryland

PWB Fabrication Technician-Laurel,Maryland

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory

Glen Echo, MD • On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 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 59 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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