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Physics Laboratory Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Experience in teaching Physics courses in college, beyond the teaching assistant level. Demonstrated high-quality teaching in a multicultural setting. Experience working with Physics laboratory ...

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How much do physics laboratory assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for physics laboratory assistant in the United States is $20.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $23.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical responsibilities of a Physics Laboratory Assistant?

A Physics Laboratory Assistant helps set up, maintain, and organize laboratory equipment and materials for physics experiments. They assist instructors and students during lab sessions, ensure safety protocols are followed, and may help with data collection and record keeping. Additionally, they are often responsible for cleaning up after experiments and ensuring that all apparatus are functioning properly and stored correctly.

What is the highest salary for a lab assistant?

The highest salary for a physics laboratory assistant varies depending on experience, location, and employer, but it can reach up to $50,000 to $60,000 annually in some regions. Advanced roles with specialized skills or supervisory responsibilities may offer higher compensation. Typically, salaries are influenced by education level, certifications, and the complexity of laboratory tasks performed.

How to become a physics lab assistant?

To become a physics lab assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions preferring or requiring post-secondary education in physics, engineering, or related fields. Relevant skills include familiarity with laboratory equipment, safety procedures, and basic scientific principles; some roles may require certification in laboratory safety or technical skills. Gaining experience through internships or assisting in research projects can also improve job prospects.

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

AspectPhysics Laboratory AssistantPhysics Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or associate degree, some technical trainingAssociate or bachelor's degree in physics or related field, technical certifications
Work EnvironmentEducational institutions, research labs, universitiesResearch facilities, industrial labs, government agencies
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with experiments, setting up equipment, maintaining lab suppliesPerforming complex experiments, calibrating instruments, analyzing data

The main difference between a Physics Laboratory Assistant and a Physics Technician lies in their responsibilities and qualifications. Laboratory Assistants typically support experimental setups and maintenance, requiring less advanced technical skills. Physics Technicians handle more complex tasks, often with higher education and technical certifications. Both roles are essential in educational and research settings, but technicians usually perform more specialized and technical work.

How much do lab assistants get paid?

Physics laboratory assistants typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on experience, education level, and location. Full-time positions may offer annual salaries ranging from $25,000 to $45,000, often with opportunities to work with scientific equipment and assist in experiments.

What qualifications do I need to be a lab assistant?

To become a physics laboratory assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, with some positions preferring post-secondary education or coursework in physics or related sciences. Strong organizational skills, familiarity with laboratory equipment, and the ability to follow safety protocols are also important qualifications.

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

To thrive as a Physics Laboratory Assistant, you need a solid understanding of physics principles, basic laboratory techniques, and at least a bachelor's degree in physics or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data analysis software (such as MATLAB or LabVIEW), and safety protocols is typically required. Attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and effective communication set exceptional candidates apart. These skills ensure accurate experimental results, safe lab operations, and efficient collaboration with researchers and students.

What are some common challenges faced by Physics Laboratory Assistants, and how can they be addressed?

Physics Laboratory Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing multiple experiments simultaneously, ensuring equipment is properly calibrated, and maintaining a safe working environment. To address these, it's important to develop strong organizational skills, keep detailed records of equipment usage, and regularly communicate with supervisors and students. Familiarity with laboratory safety protocols and proactive troubleshooting can help prevent accidents and ensure smooth lab operations.
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What cities are hiring for Physics Laboratory Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Physics Laboratory Assistant job openings:
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What states have the most Physics Laboratory Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Physics Laboratory Assistant jobs include:
SMU #50079 Lecturer in Physics

SMU #50079 Lecturer in Physics

Southern Methodist University

Dallas, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


Southern Methodist University rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

292nd of 544 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Description
Position No. 50079. The Department of Physics at Southern Methodist University (SMU) invites applications for one (1) non- tenure-track full-time Laboratory Lecturer position. Applicants should present evidence of strong interest in teaching and interacting with undergraduate students. In addition, successful candidates should have strong communication and organizational skills. The start date for the position is expected to be August 1, 2026, with renewal contingent on funding and performance.
The position focuses on, but is not limited to, teaching undergraduate introductory general Physics laboratories. The successful candidate will be the instructor of record for the labs and be responsible for preparation of lab manuals and other lab pedagogical materials. They will provide training for the graduate student teaching assistants and have overall responsibility for grading. They will work closely with a lab manager to ensure proper labs are ready. The expected teaching loads of the position will be the equivalent of four courses per semester, and training is provided.
The position offers a competitive salary with full benefits. During the academic year, the Laboratory Lecturer will be expected to live in the Dallas area and hold no other professional or academic obligations.
The SMU Department of Physics is accredited by the American Physical Society (APS) and we award BA, BS, MS, and PhD degrees in Physics. Learn more about the SMU Department of Physics at: www.physics.smu.edu/
SMU is a nationally ranked, private, non-sectarian research university located in one of the nation's fastest-growing metropolitan areas. Researchers are part of an inclusive and intellectually vibrant community of internationally recognized scholars across the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, engineering, education, and business. The City of Dallas is one of the nation's most cosmopolitan commercial and cultural centers, and the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex is the fourth largest in the US. Dallas offers a high quality of life, with a relatively low cost of living and diverse housing options. Dallas boasts a vibrant cultural landscape including live music, performing arts, nationally ranked museums, a lively and innovative restaurant offering, and the full range of professional sports teams. Explore SMU at http://www.smu.edu.
Qualifications
The position requires a graduate degree in Physics or a related discipline, with a PhD preferred. Teaching experience in general physics laboratory courses, including teaching assistantships, is required, with experience as an instructor of record being particularly valuable.
Experience in the operation of typical introductory physics laboratory equipment and instrumentation is also preferred.
Application Instructions
Applications received by November 22, 2025 will receive full consideration, but applications will continue to be accepted until the position is filled. Applications should include the following documents:
1. Cover letter
2. Curriculum vitae (CV)
3. Statement of teaching philosophy (approximately one page)
4. Two letters of recommendation to be uploaded by the letter writers into the Interfolio system
5. Teaching Portfolio - This may include any supporting material such as evidence of successful teaching and/or pedagogical skills or evidence of successful pedagogical innovation.
Applications should be submitted through Interfolio at https://apply.interfolio.com/171434. The search committee will notify applicants of the employment decision after the position is filled. Questions about the position can be addressed to Professor Joel Meyers (jrmeyers@smu.edu).
Hiring is contingent upon the satisfactory completion of a background check.

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