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Physics Professor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Rutgers University

Lecturers, Physics

New Brunswick, NJ · On-site

$2.7K/wk

Position Information Recruitment/Posting Title Lecturers, Physics Department FASC - Physics Salary Details A minimum of $2,777 per credit. Offer Information The final salary offer may be determined ...

Hartnell College

Physics Part-Time Professor

Salinas, CA · On-site

$60.19 - $71.29/hr

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math Opening Date: 06/07/2024 Description PHYSICS PART-TIME PROFESSOR Hartnell College is currently accepting applications to establish a pool for future ...

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$71K

$109.9K

$125K

How much do physics professor jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for physics professor in the United States is $109,900.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,500.00 and $124,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Are physics professors in demand?

Physics professors are in steady demand in higher education institutions, research organizations, and government labs, especially those with strong research backgrounds and advanced degrees. Employment opportunities depend on funding, institutional needs, and specialization areas, with competition often requiring a Ph.D. and research experience.

What is the difference between Physics Professor vs Physics Lecturer?

AspectPhysics ProfessorPhysics Lecturer
Required CredentialsDoctorate (Ph.D.) in Physics or related fieldMaster's or Doctorate, depending on institution
Work EnvironmentUniversities, research institutions, academiaUniversities, colleges, sometimes high schools
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily higher education institutionsHigher education, sometimes vocational or community colleges
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for academic roles and career pathsCompared for teaching positions at various educational levels

The main difference between a Physics Professor and a Physics Lecturer lies in their academic credentials, responsibilities, and career paths. Physics Professors typically hold a Ph.D., engage in research, and have tenure, while Physics Lecturers may have a master's or doctorate and focus primarily on teaching. Both roles are vital in academia but differ in scope and expectations.

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

To thrive as a Physics Professor, you need deep subject expertise in physics, a relevant doctoral degree, and experience in academic research and teaching. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, data analysis software (such as MATLAB or Python), and learning management systems is typically required. Strong communication, mentorship, and critical thinking skills set outstanding professors apart in engaging and inspiring students. These combined abilities ensure effective teaching, meaningful research contributions, and the development of future scientists.

What Does a Physics Professor Do?

A physics professor offers instruction in physical science at a community college, four-year college, or university. As a professor, you can teach both undergraduate and graduate-level courses, depending on your qualifications. An associate professor (adjunct professor) works on a contract basis, while a faculty member with tenure has a career position at the university. Your duties in all physics teaching jobs include planning a syllabus for each class. You lecture, use exams to assess students’ knowledge, and oversee hands-on courses in a lab. At a university, your responsibilities include performing research and writing academic articles.

What does a Physics Professor do?

A Physics Professor is an academic professional who teaches physics courses at a college or university level. They design and deliver lectures, guide laboratory sessions, and assess students' understanding of various physics concepts. In addition to teaching, Physics Professors often conduct original research in their field, publish scholarly articles, and mentor students in their academic and research pursuits. They may also serve on academic committees and contribute to curriculum development within their department.

How much does a physics professor get paid?

Physics professors' salaries vary based on experience, institution, and location, but the average annual salary in many regions ranges from $70,000 to over $150,000. Professors with tenure, research responsibilities, and advanced degrees typically earn higher salaries, and additional income may come from research grants and consulting.

What are some common challenges Physics Professors face when balancing teaching and research responsibilities?

Physics Professors often juggle multiple priorities, including preparing lectures, grading, mentoring students, conducting research, and publishing findings. Balancing these responsibilities can be challenging, especially during peak periods like exam seasons or grant deadlines. Effective time management and clear communication with colleagues and students are essential to maintain productivity and job satisfaction. Many institutions provide support such as teaching assistants or research staff to help manage workloads, but developing a strategic approach to scheduling and prioritizing is key.

What is the highest paid physics job?

The highest paid physics jobs are typically in industry roles such as research scientists, data scientists, or engineering managers in technology, aerospace, or defense sectors, often requiring advanced degrees and specialized skills. Executive positions like chief technology officers or R&D directors in these fields can also command high salaries. These roles usually offer compensation significantly higher than academic positions like university professors.

Does NASA hire physicists?

Yes, NASA hires physicists for roles involving research, data analysis, and mission development related to space science and technology. Physicists working at NASA often hold advanced degrees and utilize skills in experimental and theoretical physics, often working in collaborative, multidisciplinary teams. Employment opportunities are available through federal hiring processes and require relevant qualifications and security clearances.
More about Physics Professor jobs
What cities are hiring for Physics Professor jobs? Cities with the most Physics Professor job openings:
What states have the most Physics Professor jobs? States with the most job openings for Physics Professor jobs include:
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Physics Professor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Physics Professor job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,900 per year, or $52.8 per hour.

Assistant Professor of Physics

Touro University New York

Brooklyn, NY • On-site

$60K/yr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Overview
The professor would be required to teach at least four undergraduate classes per semester, selected from but not limited to, courses in Physics and Natural Sciences. Other classes may be available for additional compensation. In addition, the position requires mentoring the students in doing independent study projects. Current active research program and college level teaching experiences are definite pluses. Rank and salary dependent on qualifications.
Responsibilities
The Assistant Professor of Physics is responsible for a wide range of activities including but not limited to the following:
  • Teach at least four undergraduate courses per semester including a wide range of courses from.
  • Plan for instructional activities to include, but not limited to: Lecture, class discussion, and projects.
  • Understanding and experience in remote and distance learning.
  • Mentor students in doing independent study projects.
  • Provide academic student advisement; participate in student recruitment activities.
  • Serve on college committees.
  • Participate in ongoing professional development toward an understanding of advances and developments in the field as well as the teaching profession.
  • Contribute to the department's curriculum development efforts.

Qualifications
Education
  • Doctorate Degree Preferred.

Knowledge/ Skills/ Abilities
  • Strong analytical and pedagogical skills.
  • Requires ability to manage multiple and varied tasks with frequent high levels of urgency or sensitivity.
  • Must be able to work collaboratively and effectively with colleagues in a team environment.
  • Strong interpersonal skills are required
  • Strong written and oral communication as well as a high level of sophistication and maturity in social and professional settings.
  • Ability to relate well to the Touro University student population

Maximum Salary
USD $60,000.00/Yr.
Minimum Salary
USD $48,000.00/Yr.

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