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Physics Lab Jobs (NOW HIRING)

PHY-2210Z General Physics Lab I This is a one-semester course that reinforces physics concepts of mechanics by engaging in experiments related to motion, free body diagrams, acceleration, momentum ...

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Physics Lab information

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How much do physics lab jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for physics lab 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 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 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 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.

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.

More about Physics Lab jobs
What cities are hiring for Physics Lab jobs? Cities with the most Physics Lab job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Physics Lab jobs? The most popular types of Physics Lab jobs are:
What states have the most Physics Lab jobs? States with the most job openings for Physics Lab jobs include:
Quarterly Lecturer - Physics Lab Instructor

Quarterly Lecturer - Physics Lab Instructor

Santa Clara University

Santa Clara, CA โ€ข On-site

$4.78K/wk

Part-time

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Position Title:

Quarterly Lecturer - Physics Lab Instructor

Position Type:

Temporary

Salary Range:

$4776 per lab course

Purpose:

The Department of Physics and Engineering Physics at Santa Clara University, a Jesuit, Catholic university, invites applications for a quarterly lecturer (non-tenure track) to teach one section of a weekly lower division laboratory course (Physics 32) during fall quarter 2026. The successful candidate will teach no more than two courses in any quarter and no more than four courses over the fall, winter, and spring quarters. Each course runs 10 weeks. All classes will be presented in-person, however, if the county health conditions deteriorate, the successful candidate may be asked to teach part of the course online. Fall quarter starts on September 21, 2026.


BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
Ph.D. in Physics or related field

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

Significant experience teaching physics at the university level, demonstrated experience teaching and mentoring a diverse population of undergraduate students.


RESPONSIBILITIES:
TEACHING 100%
Teaching duties include but are not limited to:
1. Fulfilling all responsibilities associated with the assigned course, including:

a. Working with senior lab staff to demonstrate knowledge of weekly labs before meeting with students;
b. Conducting and appearing at all assigned class meetings in a timely and prepared manner that demonstrates a command of the discipline and skill in presenting it effectively;
c. Grading student lab work each week and providing timely feedback to students;
d.Assisting with one make up lab session;
e.Submitting student grades that are appropriate, accurate and fair measure of student performance;
f.Administering numerical and narrative course evaluations for all courses.

SERVICE (0%)
This position does not require any service duties. You may be invited, but not required, to attend department meetings or activities.


SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS TO APPLICANT: SUBMIT BY FRIDAY, MAY 29, 2026

1.Brief letter of interest, specifying qualifications, relevant teaching experience and addressing suitability to teach the specific courses to be covered.
2.Curriculum vitae
3.Contact information for two professional references who can comment on teaching ability

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS:
1.Brief letter of interest: Qualifications and Relevant Experience
2.Curriculum Vitae

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Please note that your employment is subject to the terms of a collective bargaining agreement between the University and the Service Employees International Union Local 1021 ("Local 1021"); see https://www.scu.edu/provost/faculty-affairs/cba-ntt/).

Telecommute

Santa Clara University is registered to do business in the following states: California, Nevada, Oregon, Washington, and Illinois. Employees approved to telecommute are required to perform their work within one of these states.

EEO Statement

Equal Opportunity/Notice of Nondiscrimination

Santa Clara University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender expression, gender identity, marital status, parental status, veteran or military status, physical or mental disability, medical conditions, pregnancy or related conditions, reproductive health decisionmaking, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. For a complete copy of Santa Clara University's equal opportunity and nondiscrimination policies, please visit the Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX website at https://www.scu.edu/title-ix/.

Clery Notice of Availability

Santa Clara University annually collects information about campus crimes and other reportable incidents in accordance with the federal Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act. To view the Santa Clara University report, please visit the Campus Safety Services website. To request a paper copy please call Campus Safety at (408) 554-4441. The report includes the type of crime, venue, and number of occurrences.

Americans with Disabilities Act

Consistent with its obligations under the law, Santa Clara University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants who wish to request a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact the Department of Human Resources ADA Team athraccommodations@scu.eduor by phone at (408)554-5750. Please note: This contact information is intended for accommodation requests only. Resumes or inquiries about application status sent to this inbox will not be reviewed or forwarded. For resumes or questions regarding application status, please contact hrservicedesk@scu.edu.

Work Authorization:

SCU does not sponsor any applicants for work visas for this position. The successful candidate must be able to provide evidence of identity and legal authorization to work in the United States.