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Physics Phd Salary Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Physics Phd Salary information

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How much do physics phd salary jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for physics phd salary 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a physics PhD, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Physics PhD, you need advanced knowledge in physics, strong mathematical abilities, and research experience, typically backed by a doctoral degree in physics or a related field. Familiarity with data analysis software (such as MATLAB or Python), scientific modeling tools, and sometimes specialized laboratory equipment is essential. Excellent problem-solving, critical thinking, and effective communication skills help in presenting complex findings and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams. These skills enable successful research outcomes, innovation, and career advancement in academic, governmental, or industry roles.

What is the average salary for someone with a physics PhD?

The average salary for someone with a Physics PhD varies depending on the industry, location, and level of experience. According to recent data, Physics PhD holders in academia may earn between $60,000 and $90,000 annually as postdoctoral researchers or assistant professors. In private industry or government roles, salaries can be significantly higher, often ranging from $90,000 to over $130,000 per year, especially in technology, engineering, or finance sectors. Experience, specialization, and geographic location can all impact salary levels.

What is the difference between Physics Phd Salary vs Data Scientist Salary?

AspectPhysics Phd SalaryData Scientist Salary
Required CredentialsPhysics PhD, research experienceBachelor's/Master's, data analysis skills, often a PhD or master's preferred
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academia, industry R&DTech companies, finance, healthcare, consulting
Industry UsageResearch institutions, universities, tech firmsTechnology, finance, consulting, healthcare

While Physics PhD holders often work in research and academia, data scientists are in high demand across various industries like tech and finance. Salaries for data scientists tend to be higher on average, reflecting the industry demand and skill set required.

What are common career paths for physics PhD holders, and how does salary typically progress with experience?

Physics PhD holders often begin their careers in postdoctoral research positions, which provide valuable experience but usually have modest salaries. As they gain expertise, many transition into roles in academia, industry (such as technology, engineering, or data science), or government research labs, where salaries increase significantly with experience and responsibility. Advancement into senior research or management positions, or securing a tenure-track professorship, can lead to substantial salary growth and additional benefits. Career progression and salary depend heavily on the sector, geographic location, and individual performance.

Is a physics PhD worth it?

A physics PhD can lead to careers in academia, research, or industry, often requiring strong analytical and technical skills. While it offers high-level expertise, the salary varies widely depending on the sector, location, and experience, with industry roles generally paying more than academic positions. The investment in time and effort is significant, but it can be rewarding for those pursuing advanced research or specialized roles.
More about Physics Phd Salary jobs
What cities are hiring for Physics Phd Salary jobs? Cities with the most Physics Phd Salary job openings:
What states have the most Physics Phd Salary jobs? States with the most job openings for Physics Phd Salary jobs include:
Infographic showing various Physics Phd Salary job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,731 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

Assistant Professor of Clinical Practice, Radiation Oncology

UTMB Health

Galveston, TX • On-site

$188/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


UTMB Health rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 168 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

268th of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description


The Department of Radiation Oncology, Division of Physics and Engineering at The University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) is seeking a medical physicist for a full-time faculty position at the Assistant or Associate Professor level. The ideal candidate is expected to become actively involved in a wide range of clinical, research, and teaching duties within the department. The successful candidate will provide clinical radiation therapy physics services for UTMB's external beam, IGRT, IMRT/VMAT, SRS/SRT/SBRT, and HDR programs. The position is located at UTMB's main campus in Galveston, TX, but will also provide clinical support as needed to planned UTMB satellite locations, the first of which is scheduled to open in September 2026. The Division of Physics and Engineering is currently staffed with 3 PhD physicists, 2 dosimetrists, and an administrative assistant. The department is currently equipped with 2 Varian linear accelerators (1 True Beam, 1 Trilogy; both with Brain Lab ExacTrac image guidance systems, kilovoltage cone-beam CT, and MV portal imaging), MOSAIQ OIS, a Siemens SOMATOM go. Open Pro CT simulator, and an Elekta micro Selectron HDR after loader. Treatment planning systems include Ray Search Ray Station, Elekta Oncentra (HDR), and Brain lab Elements (SRS/SRT). The department has a number of clinical development projects planned by June 2026, including: (1) implementation of Varian's Aria OIS, (2) addition of Varian Eclipse Hyperarc and Rapid Arc Dynamic treatment planning, (3) implementation of the Sun Nuclear Sun CHECK QA platform and other QA hardware/software, (4) upgrade to an Elekta Flexitron HDR after loader. A successful record of clinically-oriented medical physics research and publications is highly desired
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:
Personal skills such as initiative, problem-solving, and teamwork are required. The ideal candidate should have strong leadership and excellent verbal and written communications skills, strong technical skills, and a commitment to clinically-oriented research and teaching. Participation in our physician residency program is expected. Successful candidates for this faculty position must have; (1) a PhD in medical physics, physics, engineering, or related physical science; (2) ABR/ABMP certification in radiation oncology physics; (3) at least three years of full-time clinical experience in radiation oncology physics; (4) demonstrated experience working in and fostering a diverse faculty, staff, and educational environment or commitment to do so as a faculty member at UTMB. The salary and level of the position will be commensurate with experience.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
PhD or MD/PhD
SALARY:
Commensurate with experience
Equal Employment Opportunity
UTMB Health strives to provide equal opportunity employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or any other basis protected by institutional policy or by federal, state or local laws unless such distinction is required by law. As a Federal Contractor, UTMB Health takes affirmative action to hire and advance protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

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