ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Physics Professor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsPhysics Professor Jobs

Physics Professor information

See salary details

$71K

$109.9K

$125K

How much do physics professor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 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 academic institutions, research organizations, and government labs, especially those with advanced degrees and research experience. Employment opportunities depend on funding, institutional needs, and specialization areas, with competition often high for tenure-track positions.

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.

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.

Do you need a PhD to be a physics professor?

Typically, a PhD in physics or a related field is required to become a university physics professor, as it demonstrates expertise and research experience. Some colleges may hire instructors with a master's degree for teaching-focused roles, but tenure-track positions usually demand a doctoral degree and a strong publication record.

How much does a physics professor make?

Physics professors' salaries vary based on experience, education, and institution type, but the average annual salary in many regions ranges from $70,000 to $150,000. Senior faculty or those at research universities may earn higher, especially with additional research funding or administrative roles.
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:
What job categories do people searching Physics Professor jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Physics Professor jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Physics Professor jobs? For Physics Professor jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Physics Professor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Physics Professor job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 57% Full Time, 29% Part Time, and 14% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $109,900 per year, or $52.8 per hour.

Assistant Professor of Physics

Benedict College

Columbia, SC • On-site

Other

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

The Department of Chemistry, Physics, and Environmental Health Science at Benedict College invites applications for a full-time, tenure-track Assistant Professor position in Physics, commencing January 2027 (spring semester).
Applicants should demonstrate a strong commitment to excellence in teaching, research, and service to both the community and the College. The successful candidate will be expected to teach a variety of introductory and upper-level courses, including Physical Science, General College Physics, Principles of Physics, Electricity and Magnetism, Mechanics, Thermal Physics, Optics, Modern Physics, and Quantum Mechanics. Responsibilities include teaching both lectures and laboratory sections. Preference will be given to experimentalists with interests in condensed matter physics, biophysics, nanotechnology, and materials research. Familiarity with the Canvas Learning Management System is desirable. Faculty members are required to uphold the highest standards of professional ethics in alignment with the Benedict College Mission. A doctoral degree in Physics is required.
Applicants must demonstrate strong potential as effective instructors and student mentors, as well as the ability to secure funding to support an undergraduate research program.
Physics faculty at Benedict College support the College's mission of providing student-centered, quality education and are committed to the success of our students and the College. This involves teaching effectiveness, research and scholarly/creative activities, institutional service, professional and community service, student advising, and involvement. The College and surrounding communities offer a vibrant intellectual and cultural atmosphere, a great public education system, friendly people, affordable homes, easy commutes, and many other assets that make it a great place to live and work.
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
Ability to teach lower and upper-level undergraduate physics courses
• Knowledge in pedagogy and teaching techniques for first-time college students and students from underserved populations;
• Effective instructional delivery and use of instructional technology;
• Ability to actively engage students in the learning process;
• Ability to conduct respectful relationships with students both in and outside the classroom;
• Ability to work effectively with individuals from diverse communities and cultures;
MINIMUM TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE:
Ph.D. in Physics.

Apply