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Physics Lab Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Physics lab equipment * Departmental instruments * Teaching, research and/or instrumentation software (plus installation, collaboration with IT might be needed) * Cryogens, gases, and chemicals - as ...

In this role, the Physics Content Developer will author lab procedures and pre-lab materials, design clear and effective physics questions with solutions, and review content for accuracy, clarity ...

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 ...

Applicant Pool for Adjunct Faculty, Physics (Lab) This position requires teaching undergraduates, and applicants must provide evidence of teaching potential. Teaching faculty at Owens Community ...

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Physics Lab information

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$5

$20

$25

How much do physics lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 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 is a physics lab?

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 skills and qualifications are needed to work in a physics lab?

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 challenges are 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 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 do people do in a physics lab?

In a physics lab, professionals conduct experiments to study physical phenomena, collect data, and analyze results. They use scientific tools and equipment such as oscilloscopes, spectrometers, and particle detectors, often following safety protocols and precise procedures to advance understanding in physics research or applied sciences.
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:

Infographic showing various Physics Lab 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 $41,731 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

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Job description

Summary

The Laboratory Manager is responsible for Routine maintenance of departmental instrumentation and equipment, provide instrumentation training and assistance, update instrumentation operating instructions, physics lab set up and maintenance, ordering of chemicals, software, instrumentation accessories and physics supplies, inventory maintenance, editing and production of physics lab manuals, teaching, and other duties as assigned by the laboratory director and the department chairperson.

Essential Functions

Maintenance, upkeep and training for departmental instrumentation and equipment:

  • Post updated operating instructions for each instrument
  • Perform preventive maintenance: run standards to ensure the proper function of instruments
  • Perform instrument shutdown and restart
  • Install instrument software and update software, as needed
  • Perform instrument troubleshooting. Conduct repairs, when possible. Contact vendor for repairs, if necessary. Shadow and assist instrument technician/engineers.
  • Oversee the use of departmental poster printer. Conduct repairs, when possible. Contact vendor for repairs, if necessary
  • Maintain inventory database for departmental instrumentation
  • Assist faculty and students in both the teaching and research labs, when instruments are involved as part of the experimental procedures
  • Conduct instrument training for faculty, staff, teaching assistants, students, and other users including those outside of the department or external to Barry University
  • Schedule instrumentation use time for faculty and students
  • Update SharePoint chemical database: chemical inventory of reagents used with instrumentation, including gases and cryogens.
  • Maintain inventory and organization of tools and instrument accessories, and ensure proper utilization with minimum waste and duplication
  • Perform safety checks on oxygen monitor for NMR room before each use of NMR and cryogen fills and perform weekly checks of gas cylinders in teaching and research labs.
  • Maintain research and teaching lab equipment such as icemakers, ovens, heating/stir plates, rotary evaporators, mixer mills, repair when possible, order replacement parts or replacement equipment when necessary

Assist the instructor during the Instrumental Lab, CHE 421 (Spring):

  • Prepare solutions
  • Set up the instrumentation prior the start of semester
  • Train students on the use of instruments
  • Oversee collection of chemical hazardous waste
  • Assist during the practical exams, including prior preparation of solutions and testing of assignment feasibility
  • Assist with field trips and service-learning projects, on as-needed basis
  • Assist with and/or perform instrument data collection
  • Maintain the organization of lab drawers and cabinets in Siena 116
  • Update chemical inventory on SharePoint site

Manage the physics lab:

  • Organize and maintain the physics laboratory equipment
  • Maintain the physics equipment inventory
  • Set up the physics lab experiments. If Lab Assistants are available, then mentor and oversee their set-ups.

Place orders:

  • Physics lab equipment
  • Departmental instruments
  • Teaching, research and/or instrumentation software (plus installation, collaboration with IT might be needed)
  • Cryogens, gases, and chemicals - as these pertain to instrumentation
  • Chemicals, instrument accessories and equipment for Instrumental Lab, CHE 421.

Assist faculty with:

  • Developing and implementing experiments
  • Editing physics lab manuals
  • Preparing the physics portion for the department's annual Chemistry & Physics Tournament.
  • Installing research and teaching software

Assist Laboratory Director with:

  • Placing and receiving annual order
  • Bi-annual waste pick up
  • Relocating lab chemicals, supplies and equipment
  • Maintaining organization of the stockroom

Place work tickets with Facilities and IT:

  • Assist with maintenance of labs by placing and following up on work tickets for teaching and research labs
  • Assist with software updates by placing and following up on IT tickets

Professional development:

  • Must have thorough knowledge of instrumental techniques available in the department
  • Participate in instrument related webinars
  • Keep updated on lab safety procedures including OSHA, EPA, and DOT
  • Knowledge of good management practices through HR training modules
  • knowledge of effective pedagogical practices

Teaching assignment (Chemistry or Physics, depending on the expertise):

  • One lab (1 credit) or one lecture (3 credits, plus 1 credit SI, if applicable) in the fall and summer I or II, on as-needed basis
  • Prepare course plan and materials
  • Deliver course content
  • Participate in relevant committee meetings
  • Monitor attendance and progress
  • Record grades and submit reports
  • Maintain Canvas site
  • Hold office hours
  • Mentor undergraduate teaching assistants, if assigned to the course
Qualifications/Requirements
  • A Master's degree in Chemistry, Physics or closely related field with at least 18 graduate Chemistry or Physics credits is required.
  • One year of relevant experience.
  • Advanced problem solving, chemical calculations, troubleshooting instrumentation skills required.
  • Experience working with spreadsheets, word processing and various software.
  • Excellent communication skills, verbal and written.
  • Responsible for placing orders and contacting vendors for timely repair of instrumentation as needed.
Benefits: Barry University offers a comprehensive benefits package to full-time employees that includes health, dental, vision, life insurance, retirement, tuition assistance, paid time off and work/life balance initiatives such as wellness programs, spirituality in the workplace, and training and development.

Barry University is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to a diverse and inclusive work environment.


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