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Physics Programmer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Leidos

Applied Physicist III

San Diego, CA · On-site

$87K - $157K/yr

Masters with 2+ years of relevant experience; or Doctoral degree in physics, applied physics, engineering, applied mathematics, or a related scientific field. US Citizenship and able to maintain a ...

Leidos

Applied Physicist III

San Diego, CA · On-site

$87K - $157K/yr

Masters with 2+ years of relevant experience; or Doctoral degree in physics, applied physics, engineering, applied mathematics, or a related scientific field. • US Citizenship and able to maintain ...

Applied Physics

Seismologist

Los Angeles, CA

Applied Physics is seeking a highly motivated and experienced seismologist to join our ... Experience with computer systems and modern programming languages (e.g. Python, C/C++, R, Java ...

Applied Physics

Seismologist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Applied Physics is seeking a highly motivated and experienced seismologist to join our ... Experience with computer systems and modern programming languages (e.g. Python, C/C++, R, Java ...

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All JobsPhysics Programmer JobsPhysics Programmer Jobs in California

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How much do physics programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for physics programmer in California is $30.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.14 and $34.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Physics Programmers?

Physics Programmers are specialized software developers who design and implement the systems that simulate real-world physics in video games and other interactive applications. They work on creating realistic movement, collision detection, fluid dynamics, and other physical interactions within a digital environment. Their work ensures that objects in a game or simulation behave in ways that are believable and consistent with the laws of physics. Physics Programmers often collaborate closely with game designers, animators, and other programmers to create immersive and responsive experiences.

What is the highest paid job in physics?

The highest paid jobs in physics often include roles such as physics research directors, senior physicists in industry, or physics consultants, especially in sectors like aerospace, defense, and technology. These positions typically require advanced degrees, specialized skills, and extensive experience, with salaries reaching into the high six or seven figures for top-level professionals.

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

To thrive as a Physics Programmer, you need a strong background in computer science, mathematics (especially linear algebra and physics), and proficiency in programming languages such as C++ or Python. Familiarity with physics engines (like Havok or PhysX), game development platforms (such as Unreal Engine or Unity), and optimization tools is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, creativity, and effective communication help distinguish top performers in this field. These skills ensure the creation of realistic, efficient, and engaging physical simulations that enhance the overall user experience in interactive applications.

Is physics unemployable?

Physics programmers are employed in industries such as gaming, simulation, and scientific research, where they develop physics engines and algorithms. Job prospects depend on skills in programming languages like C++ and knowledge of physics principles, with demand remaining steady in technology-driven fields.

What are the typical challenges a Physics Programmer faces when integrating physics systems into a game engine?

Physics Programmers often encounter challenges when ensuring that physics systems interact seamlessly with other game engine components, such as animation, rendering, and AI. Balancing performance and accuracy is key, as realistic physics can be computationally expensive and impact frame rates. Debugging complex interactions and edge cases—like collision detection or character ragdoll behavior—requires strong problem-solving skills and close collaboration with designers and gameplay programmers. Effective communication within a multidisciplinary team is crucial to align physics features with the overall game vision.

How to become a physics programmer?

To become a physics programmer, you should have a strong foundation in physics and mathematics, along with proficiency in programming languages such as C++ or Python. Gaining experience with physics simulation tools, game engines, or physics middleware, and understanding algorithms for collision detection and physics calculations, is also important. A relevant degree in computer science, physics, or related fields can enhance your prospects.

What does a physics programmer do?

A physics programmer develops and implements physics simulations and algorithms for video games, virtual reality, or scientific applications. They often work with physics engines, programming languages like C++ or Python, and collaborate with game designers or engineers to create realistic motion, collision detection, and environmental interactions.
What are the most commonly searched types of Physics Programmer jobs in California? The most popular types of Physics Programmer jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Physics Programmer jobs in California? For Physics Programmer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Physics Programmer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Physics Programmer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Physics Programmer jobs? Cities in California with the most Physics Programmer job openings:
Physics Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Physics Programmer job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 72% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 25% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,546 per year, or $30.6 per hour.
Sr. Physics Programmer

Sr. Physics Programmer

ALR Partners, LLC

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 19 hours ago

Job description

Company Description

Based in Dallas area of TX, Nerd Kingdom is a well-funded, video game technology and research group, that cross pollinates disciplines in areas of technology, behavioral science, economics, and traditional game development. We hold forward thinking and collaboration as the foundation of everything we do, as it defines our culture. Community is more than just a clump of users to us, it's an extension of who we are, and what we portray through what we build.

Nerd Kingdom is developing an engine and platform for creation and collaboration that leverages ambitious technology, in order to empower everyone from early modders, to sophisticated engineers. We aren't just creating tools, we are focusing on how data flows through that engine in order to help us and the community create better experiences, as players and creators.

Job Description

We are currently looking for a Senior Physics Programmer (Physics) to add to our team. Our ideal candidate would have experience in a lead position and has delivered a successful game or software title. If you are an Physics Programmer with experience and the desire to lay your imprint on the gaming industry, we encourage you to apply!

Must Haves:

Bachelor's degree related to Computer Science or equivalent experience

At least 5 years in real-time development using C/C++

Utilizing common programming practices such as OOP, Inheritance hierarchies, templates, and other common programming techniques

At least 3 years developing physics systems for video games or simulations with experience in the following areas:

          o Collision Detection for static and animated models

          o Player, AI and object movement

          o Multiplayer physics and client-side prediction techniques

          o Trigger Volumes

          o Ray-Tracing

Experience Scripting (Lua or JavaScript)


Nice To Haves:

Experience programming with the Bullet Physics Library in at least one fully developed product

Experience building brand new systems from the ground up and seeing them through all phases of development (design, scheduling, prototyping, integration, delivery, etc)

Experience working in a team environment with excellent communication skills between technical and non-technical members of team

Able to precisely estimate time needed to complete tasks

Able to write clean and clear technical documentation

Knowledgeable in using development tools such as IDEs, bug tracking software, documentation services, code repositories, etc.

Havok Physics a plus

AmmoJS (JS port of Bullet) a big plus

Data Oriented and Data Driven Design a big plus

Procedural terrain generation and voxel manipulation

Game modding via scripting APIs

Delivered game or software title




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