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Physics Phd Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mercor

Physics PhD - Theoretical Expert

San Francisco, CA · On-site +1

$70 - $180/hr

Physics PhD (Top 50 Program, US/UK/CA) Type: Contract Compensation: $70-$180/hour Location: Remote Role Responsibilities * Solve and evaluate challenging physics problems across various subfields.

Weekday AI

Physics AI Specialist

$80/hr

This role is for one of our clients Compensation: $80 per hour We are seeking highly qualified Physics PhD professionals to contribute to a cutting-edge AI research initiative involving advanced ...

Macmillan

Physics Content Developer (Contract)

$30 - $35/hr

MS or PhD in Physics; PhD in progress will be considered Pay Rate: $30 - 35/hour, depending on experience Hours: 10-15 hours per week Assignment Duration: 3 to 4months, depending on project needs ...

Weekday AI

Physics Research Collaborator (Part-time)

$80 - $110/hr

PhD or postdoctoral training from a globally recognized institution in Physics or a related STEM discipline. * Recipient of prestigious fellowships or research awards such as: * NSF Graduate Research ...

Loma Linda University Health

Physicist PhD 2

Loma Linda, CA · On-site

$111.88 - $150.47/hr

The physics team of medical professionals comprising four PhD physicists, three MS physicists, a calibration physicist, and six dosimetrists. The department's equipment and facilities include three ...

KBA STAFFING LLC

Be Seen First

Physics Expert (PhD / Postdoc)

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$80 - $90/hr

Preferred Qualifications PhD in physics or advanced-stage PhD candidacy, with active research experience in a relevant subfield. Research expertise in one or more of: High Energy Physics ...

New

KBA STAFFING LLC

Be Seen First

Physics Expert (PhD / Postdoc)

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$80 - $90/hr

Preferred Qualifications PhD in physics or advanced-stage PhD candidacy, with active research experience in a relevant subfield. Research expertise in one or more of: High Energy Physics ...

New

Mercor

Physics Research Expert - PhD

San Francisco, CA · On-site +1

$80 - $140/hr

Position: Research Physics Expert Type: Contract Compensation: $80-$140/hour Location: Remote ... PhD or postdoc in the relevant subfield (senior PhD student minimum). * Postdoc or junior professor ...

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Physics Phd information

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How much do physics phd jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for physics phd in the United States is $61,160.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,000.00 and $64,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a physics PhD?

A Physics PhD job typically involves advanced research, problem-solving, and analytical work in academia, industry, or government. Common roles include research scientist, data analyst, professor, and engineer in fields like aerospace, biotech, finance, and energy. These jobs require expertise in mathematical modeling, programming, and experimental techniques. Many Physics PhDs work on cutting-edge technologies, simulations, and theoretical advancements that drive innovation in science and engineering.

Where do most physics PhDs work?

Most physics PhDs work in academia as university professors or researchers, in government laboratories, or in industry sectors such as technology, aerospace, and data analysis. They often utilize skills in research, data modeling, and technical problem-solving, and may hold positions requiring advanced knowledge of physics and related tools.

Are physics PhDs employable?

Physics PhDs are highly employable in various fields including academia, research, data analysis, engineering, and technology. They develop skills in problem-solving, quantitative analysis, and technical communication, which are valued across many industries. Job prospects often depend on specialization, experience, and additional skills such as programming or laboratory techniques.

What types of projects or research areas can physics PhDs expect to work on?

Physics PhDs often work on a broad range of projects, such as experimental and theoretical research in condensed matter, quantum mechanics, astrophysics, or materials science, depending on the employer and area of specialization. You may be involved in designing and conducting experiments, developing simulations, publishing findings, and collaborating with other scientists or engineers. Many positions offer opportunities to lead interdisciplinary teams or participate in cutting-edge technology development. The day-to-day work is often dynamic, with tasks varying between data analysis, grant preparation, presentations, and mentorship. Over time, there are strong opportunities for career advancement to roles such as principal investigator, research director, or technical lead in academia, government, or industry.

Is a physics PhD worth it?

A physics PhD prepares individuals for careers in research, academia, and industry, often requiring strong analytical and problem-solving skills. While it can lead to high-level positions, the degree involves significant time and financial investment, and job prospects vary depending on specialization and market demand.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the physics PhD position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Physics PhD, you need advanced expertise in physics concepts, analytical problem-solving abilities, and a doctoral degree in physics or a closely related field. Strong proficiency with data analysis software (such as MATLAB, Python, or LabVIEW), scientific instrumentation, and publication or grant-writing systems is typically required. Excellent communication, perseverance, and the ability to collaborate in interdisciplinary teams set top candidates apart. These skills are essential for driving research, contributing to innovation, and succeeding in both academic and industry settings.

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Physics Phd jobs near you
Infographic showing various Physics Phd job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,160 per year, or $29.4 per hour.

Physics PhD - Theoretical Expert

Mercor

San Francisco, CA • On-site, Remote

$70 - $180/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

About the job

Mercor connects elite creative and technical talent with leading AI research labs. Headquartered in San Francisco, our investors include Benchmark, General Catalyst, Peter Thiel, Adam D'Angelo, Larry Summers, and Jack Dorsey.

Position: Physics PhD (Top 50 Program, US/UK/CA)
Type: Contract
Compensation: $70–$180/hour
Location: Remote

Role Responsibilities

  • Solve and evaluate challenging physics problems across various subfields.
  • Review AI-generated proofs, derivations, and solutions for correctness, rigor, and clarity.
  • Identify gaps, inconsistencies, or unsupported reasoning in model outputs.
  • Apply relevant citations, principles, and formal reasoning where appropriate.
  • Work independently to complete tasks within 24 hours when work is available.
  • Collaborate asynchronously with AI research teams to improve AI systems' reasoning capabilities.

Qualifications

Must-Have

  • PhD in Physics from a top 50 physics program in the United States, United Kingdom, or Canada.
  • Degree must be in Physics rather than applied physics, engineering, or a closely related applied discipline.
  • Strong graduate-level problem-solving ability across advanced physics topics.
  • Ability to clearly articulate reasoning, reference relevant theorems or principles, and identify gaps in written solutions.
  • Able to commit approximately 15 hours per week.

Preferred

  • Ideally active in research or academia.

Start Date

  • Available to begin immediately

Application Process (Takes 20–30 mins to complete)

  • Submit your resume.
  • Complete an interview to get started (if we do not have one already on file).

Resources & Support

  • For details about the interview process and platform information, please check: https://talent.docs.mercor.com/welcome
  • For any help or support, reach out to: support@mercor.com

PS: Our team reviews applications daily. Please complete your AI interview and application steps to be considered for this opportunity.