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Physics Major Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Physics Major information

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How much do physics major jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for physics major 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 Major?

A Physics Major is an undergraduate student who specializes in the study of the fundamental principles that govern the universe, such as matter, energy, motion, and forces. Physics majors learn about classical and modern physics topics, including mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics, quantum mechanics, and relativity. The program typically involves both theoretical coursework and hands-on laboratory experience, preparing students for a wide range of careers or further study in physics and related fields.

What jobs can I do with physics?

A physics major can pursue careers such as research scientist, data analyst, engineer, or physics teacher. These roles often require strong analytical, problem-solving, and quantitative skills, and may involve working in laboratories, industry, or academia. Additional certifications or advanced degrees can expand job opportunities in specialized fields like aerospace, medical physics, or software development.

What can I do with a physics degree?

A physics major can pursue careers in research, engineering, data analysis, and technology development. They often work in laboratories, manufacturing, or software environments, utilizing skills in problem-solving, mathematics, and programming. Many roles require a bachelor's degree, while advanced positions may need a master's or Ph.D.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

Physics majors can reach high salaries in specialized fields such as data science, quantitative finance, or engineering roles that require advanced technical skills and often a master's or Ph.D. degree. High-paying positions typically involve leadership, research, or technical expertise, and may require working in competitive industries like finance, technology, or aerospace.

What careers can I get with physics?

A physics major can pursue careers in research, engineering, data analysis, and education. Common roles include physicist, engineer, data scientist, and technical analyst, often requiring strong problem-solving skills and proficiency with scientific tools and programming languages. Many positions are available in academia, government labs, and private industry.

What is the difference between Physics Major vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectPhysics MajorMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Physics or related fieldBachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academia, tech companiesManufacturing, design firms, engineering firms
Industry UsageResearch, education, technology developmentProduct design, systems development, manufacturing
Common Search/ComparisonPhysics Major vs Mechanical Engineer

While both Physics Majors and Mechanical Engineers often hold bachelor's degrees and work in technical environments, Physics Majors focus more on fundamental research and theoretical concepts, whereas Mechanical Engineers emphasize designing and building physical systems. The choice depends on whether you prefer research and academia or practical engineering applications.

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

To thrive as a Physics Major, you need a strong grasp of mathematics, analytical thinking, and foundational knowledge in classical and modern physics, typically supported by coursework in calculus and laboratory sciences. Familiarity with scientific software such as MATLAB, Python, or LabVIEW, as well as experience with laboratory instrumentation, is commonly required. Problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and strong written and verbal communication skills help students excel in research and collaborative projects. These skills are crucial for understanding complex physical concepts, conducting experiments, and effectively communicating findings in academic or professional settings.

What types of entry-level positions are typically available to recent graduates with a physics major, and how can I prepare to stand out in the application process?

Recent physics graduates commonly find entry-level roles in research assistance, data analysis, engineering, software development, and technical consulting. To stand out, it helps to highlight any hands-on lab experience, familiarity with programming languages (such as Python or MATLAB), and strong problem-solving skills. Participating in internships, research projects, or collaborative team assignments during your studies can demonstrate your practical abilities to employers. Tailoring your resume to showcase both your technical expertise and communication skills will further strengthen your application.
More about Physics Major jobs
What cities are hiring for Physics Major jobs? Cities with the most Physics Major job openings:
What states have the most Physics Major jobs? States with the most job openings for Physics Major jobs include:
Infographic showing various Physics Major job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 58% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 26% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,731 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

Physics Faculty Full-Time, Tenure Track

MACNY's Job Board

Syracuse, NY • Hybrid

$61K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 22 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Teach face-to-face Physics lecture and laboratory courses on campus.

  • Provide academic advising and support to students for persistence and timely degree completion.

  • Develop and revise curriculum, assess student learning outcomes, and participate in departmental and college service activities.


Job description

Onondaga Community College, located in Syracuse, NY is currently recruiting for a Physics Faculty Full-Time, Tenure Track. The Department of Mathematics and Natural Sciences in the School of Liberal Arts and Sciences invites applications for a full-time, tenure-track faculty position in Physics, beginning Fall 2026.

This is a campus-based position. Faculty are expected to teach face-to-face courses on campus and be regularly present to support instruction, laboratory activities, advising, and departmental responsibilities. While the department offers a limited number of online and hybrid courses, these are part of the overall instructional portfolio and do not constitute a remote appointment.

Primary responsibilities include teaching lecture and laboratory sections of Physics courses, academic advising, curriculum development, assessment of student learning outcomes,

participation in departmental and college service, and contributions to instructional initiatives supporting student success.


Teaching Responsibilities

  • Algebra-based General Physics I and II (lecture and laboratory)
  • Calculus-based Physics I and II (lecture and laboratory)
  • Introductory Astronomy
  • Conceptual or non-majors physics courses, as needed

Teaching assignments will be based on departmental needs and scheduling demands. Faculty are expected to maintain strong laboratory standards and ensure safe, accurate, and pedagogically effective experimental instruction.

Instructional and Programmatic Focus

  • Support calculus-based physics courses serving Engineering Science and STEM transfer students
  • Maintain rigorous and well-structured laboratory experiences aligned with transfer expectations
  • Teach across multiple levels, including algebra-based and conceptual physics
  • Contribute to ongoing refinement of laboratory curriculum and instructional practices
  • Provide scheduling flexibility across lecture and lab formats

Major Responsibilities

  • Teach face-to-face Physics lecture and laboratory courses
  • Maintain regular on-campus availability for student support and advising
  • Provide academic advising to support persistence and timely degree completion
  • Develop and revise curriculum aligned with program and institutional learning outcomes
  • Assess student learning and participate in outcomes-based assessment activities
  • Ensure safe laboratory practices and proper use of instructional equipment
  • Use appropriate instructional technology to enhance learning
  • Obtain Quality Matters (QM) certification within a reasonable timeframe, as required for teaching online or hybrid courses offered by the department
  • Provide timely feedback on student work and submit required academic materials by established deadlines
  • Participate in departmental, school, and college service activities

No
USD $61,466.00/Yr.
USD $61,466.00/Yr.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

  • Master's degree in Physics or a closely related field from an accredited institution from an accredited university, college or foreign equivalency.

           OR

  • Master's degree in a related discipline with a minimum of 18 graduate credits in Physics from an accredited university, college or foreign equivalency.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Experience teaching both algebra-based and calculus-based physics
  • Experience teaching physics laboratories
  • Experience teaching astronomy or conceptual physics courses
  • Experience teaching in a community college or open-access institution
  • Demonstrated commitment to maintaining academic standards in STEM coursework
  • Willingness to complete Quality Matters training and teach online or hybrid courses as part of a primarily on-campus faculty role
  • Bilingual in English and Spanish. English and other languages will be considered.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

  • Strong communication and organizational skills
  • Ability to work effectively with diverse student populations
  • Ability to teach physics using structured, active, and applied learning strategies
  • Demonstrated laboratory competency and commitment to safe experimental practice
  • Facility with instructional technology and data acquisition systems
  • Commitment to collaborative work within a department

Additional Information:

  • Salary for Assistant Professor level is $61,466. 
  • Onondaga Community College offers a generous and competitive benefits package including:
    • New York State Teacher's Retirement System or Optional Retirement Savings Program (401(a).
    • Excellent health, dental, and vision insurance plans (qualifying domestic partner included).
  • Onondaga Community College participates in the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program for eligible borrowers.

Application Instructions:

  • To be considered, please submit a resume, cover letter, and unofficial transcripts at time of application.
  • The three (3) references listed on the application must be professional references, two of which must be current or former supervisors. Finalists will be notified before references are checked.
  • Offers are contingent on the completion of a background check, and official transcripts are required upon hire. 

Please note: If hired, official transcripts will be required.

Please contact hr@sunyocc.edu if you have questions.


Apply Here


Onondaga Community College, located in Syracuse, NY, is a college of the State University of New York (SUNY) system and one of 30 locally sponsored community colleges throughout New York State. Onondaga County is our sponsor. We offer two-year degree programs that serve as transfer opportunities to baccalaureate degree programs at four-year campuses or for direct entry to the workforce. We also offer certificate programs that can generally be completed in one year. Onondaga is a diverse educational learning community. We are committed to creating and maintaining an atmosphere where individuality is not only recognized - but encouraged - to contribute to the fabric of the campus environment. We continue to serve the educational and economic development needs of the region and proudly boast more than 40,000 alumni.

Onondaga Community College does not discriminate against any persons of groups based on race, color, national origin, religion, creed, age, disability, sex, gender expression, sexual orientation, familial status, pregnancy, predisposing genetic characteristics or carrier status, military status (including US Veteran status), domestic violence victim status, prior criminal conviction, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Onondaga Community College complies with all applicable equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination laws.