1

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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Physics Laboratory Assistant information

See salary details

$10

$20

$29

How much do physics laboratory assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 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 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.

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.
More about Physics Laboratory Assistant jobs
What cities are hiring for Physics Laboratory Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Physics Laboratory Assistant job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Physics Laboratory jobs? The most popular types of Physics Laboratory jobs are:
What states have the most Physics Laboratory Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Physics Laboratory Assistant jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Physics Laboratory Assistant jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Physics Laboratory Assistant jobs are:
Infographic showing various Physics Laboratory Assistant job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 18% Internship, 64% Full Time, and 18% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,113 per year, or $20.2 per hour.
Electrician

$24.75 - $34/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 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 57 rated research


Job description

Description
Are you seeking an opportunity to apply your electrical skills doing complex construction projects?
Do you have hands-on experience with construction and electric distribution systems?
If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team.
The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL), a national leader in scientific research and development, located midway between Baltimore and Washington, DC is seeking an Electrician to support installation, maintenance, inspection, testing, and repair of building wiring systems, electrical distribution equipment, and components across our enterprise.
As an Electrician, you will...
  • Install, repair, and replace various electrical fixtures and equipment, inspect systems for malfunctions or defects and test completed work to ensure proper performance and compliance with the National Electrical Code
  • Work from schematics, wiring diagrams, and Engineering drawings; create as-built documentation as needed
  • Disconnect, remove, and disassemble electrical components and systems
  • Apply trade formulas to calculate voltage and resistance; determine proper wire types, conduit sizes, and components like relays, panels, and controls
  • Use splicing, soldering, tapping, and other techniques to perform electrical service and maintenance
  • May assist with multi-trade activities to support customer requirements
  • Install electrical services and equipment (e.g., panels, switches, starters, receptacles) for new offices and facilities across campus
  • Pull and splice wiring ranging from 14 AWG to 750 MCM for various systems including lighting, control circuits, HVAC equipment, and computing infrastructure
  • Assist with the installation of low-voltage (480V or less) switchgear and transformers (0.5 to 112 KVA) for internal power distribution
  • Occasionally support electrical construction projects at field test sites
  • Work a regular schedule of 6:00 AM to 2:30 PM, with flexibility for extended hours or occasional weekend work during peak periods or customer-driven outages
  • Routinely operate APL vehicles and industrial equipment, use personal protective equipment, outside work during inclement weather conditions, and overtime may be required

Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications if you...
  • Possess a high school diploma or equivalent level of math and language proficiency
  • Have completed trade school training in Electronics, Electrical Maintenance/Construction, or a related field OR have at least two years of relevant on-the-job experience (or a combination of both)
  • Demonstrate trade-level math skills, the ability to read wiring diagrams, and strong communication skills in English
  • Hold a valid State of Maryland Journeyman Electrician License
  • Are skilled with hand tools, test equipment, and have a solid understanding of how electrical circuits and components function and interconnect
  • Requires valid state-of-residence driver's license in good standing.
  • Can use and adjust hand, power, and hydraulic tools (e.g., screwdrivers, pliers, soldering irons, voltmeters, ohmmeters)
  • Have the ability to obtain a Secret Security Clearance. Applicant selection 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 go above and beyond if you...
  • Have experience with Siemens fire alarm systems, including programming and software configuration

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 http://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 Accommodations@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
$27.95 Hourly
Maximum Rate
$51.25 Hourly