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Physics Professor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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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How much do physics professor jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 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.

What is the highest paid job in physics?

The highest paid jobs in physics are often in industry roles such as research scientists, physicists in aerospace or defense companies, and senior technical consultants, with salaries exceeding $150,000 annually. These positions typically require advanced degrees, specialized skills, and experience in areas like applied physics, engineering, or data analysis.

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.

Is there a demand for physics professors?

Physics professors are in steady demand at universities and research institutions, especially those with expertise in specialized fields like quantum mechanics or astrophysics. Employment opportunities depend on factors such as academic qualifications, research experience, and the availability of funding for higher education. The job market can vary regionally and is influenced by higher education enrollment trends and government research budgets.

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 can you do with a PhD in physics?

A physics professor with a PhD can work in academia as a faculty member, conducting research and teaching students. They can also find roles in research institutions, government labs, or industry positions such as data analyst, technical consultant, or science communicator, often requiring strong analytical and technical skills. Postdoctoral experience and publishing research are common steps to advance in these careers.

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, education, and institution type, but typically range from $60,000 to over $150,000 annually. Salaries tend to be higher at research universities and for those with tenure, advanced research skills, and published work.

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.
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Physics Professor jobs near you
Associate Professor, Department of Physics

Associate Professor, Department of Physics

The University of Chicago

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago

University Of Chicago rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

111th of 536 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Description
The Department of Physics at the University of Chicago, together with the James Franck Institute, is conducting a search at the rank of tenured Associate Professor. The search is open to all subfields of experimental Quantum Science, including Quantum Materials (hard condensed matter), and atomic molecular and optical physics. The Department will consider multiple appointments. The Department members cover a wide range of research areas; details can be found at the Department website (https://physics.uchicago.edu/research/). Interdisciplinary research, connected to the Kadanoff Center for Theoretical Physics, The Enrico Fermi Institute, the Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, and Argonne National Laboratory is encouraged.
Duties include conducting an independent research program, and teaching and advising undergraduate and graduate students. Review of applications will begin on November 1, 2024 and will continue until the position is filled.
Qualifications
Completion of all requirements for a Ph.D. in physics or a closely related field at the time of hire.
Application Instructions
Applicants must apply online through the University of Chicago Academic Careers website at apply.interfolio.com/152824 and upload the following required materials:
  • A cover letter.
  • A curriculum vitae.
  • A list of publications.
  • A research statement.
  • A teaching statement.
  • A list of three references.

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