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Physics Laboratory Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

University of Hawaii

Lecturer (Physics)

Hilo, HI · On-site

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 ...

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory

$24.75 - $34/hr

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL), a national leader in scientific ... May assist with multi-trade activities to support customer requirements * Install electrical ...

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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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Physics Laboratory Assistant jobs near you
2026 Graduate - Weapon Systems Analyst

2026 Graduate - Weapon Systems Analyst

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory

Laurel, MD • On-site

$85K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 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 58 rated research

Job description

Description
Are you eager to join a team tackling some of our Nation's most compelling security challenges?
Do you have a passion for weapon-system concepts and a drive to apply analytical thinking to strategic deterrence and national defense?
Would you like to grow your expertise while helping shape the future of America's most advanced strategic systems?
Do you enjoy working on tough technical problems, learning from seasoned experts, and making a tangible impact?
If so, we have the perfect opportunity for you!
The System Definition & Validation Group (KBY) in the Force Projection Sector of the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory is seeking motivated analysts, engineers, scientists, mathematicians, statisticians, and systems engineers to fill the role of Weapon System Analyst. The successful candidate will work on complex, multi-disciplinary problems alongside senior experts, gaining the experience and mentorship needed to become a future leader in strategic-systems analysis.
As a Weapons Systems Analyst for KBY you will...
  • Integrate into multidisciplinary teams that apply a "whole-of-system" perspective and systems-engineering rigor to shape platforms that meet current and future warfighter requirements.
  • Support in-depth analyses at the system and sub-system levels, producing data-driven recommendations that inform design decisions.
  • Develop an understanding of how weapon systems function, are tested, operated, and maintained, and how they fit into broader deterrence concepts; you will translate that knowledge into clear guidance for warfighter employment under senior mentorship.
  • Contribute to requirements and architecture reviews, helping evaluate change impacts and safeguard mission performance while learning the fundamentals of system requirements, interfaces, and capabilities.
  • Assist in stakeholder engagement, helping navigate expectations and relationships so program leadership can better satisfy warfighter needs.
  • Continuously expand knowledge of weapon systems, associated delivery platforms, and the system-level engineering processes that support them through on-the-job training, workshops, and self-directed study.
  • Participate in sponsor-support trips (up to 2-4 per year, each ≤ 1 week) and perform local travel for stakeholder meetings as needed.
  • Apply emerging models, simulations, and early-stage assessment tools under the guidance of senior analysts to help accelerate validation and reduce risk.
  • Provide fresh perspectives and analytical rigor, leveraging your technical background to challenge assumptions and contribute innovative ideas.

Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...
  • Hold a Bachelor's degree in engineering, computer science, physics, applied mathematics, or a related technical discipline.
  • Possess relevant technical or analytical experience (e.g., work on complex engineering projects, systems analysis, data-driven modeling, or operational research). Experience does not have to be on weapon systems; strong analytical ability and a demonstrated capacity to learn new domains are essential.
  • Demonstrate strong problem-solving skills, quantitative analysis capabilities, and the ability to communicate technical concepts clearly both in writing and orally.
  • Exhibit the right attributes for growth - curiosity, adaptability, teamwork, and a drive to develop deep weapon-system expertise.
  • Are able to obtain Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain Top Secret level 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'll exceed our minimum requirements with experience in any of the following...
  • Advanced coursework or graduate-level study (M.S.) in a relevant technical field.
  • Prior exposure to weapon-system concepts (e.g., missiles, bombers, hypersonics, or comparable high-technology platforms) through internships, research projects, or early-career roles.
  • Experience conducting trade-studies, requirements analysis, or system-level modeling in any engineering domain.
  • Familiarity with high-fidelity simulation or model-based systems engineering tools.
  • An active Top-Secret clearance.

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
$85,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$165,000 Annually

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