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Physics Programmer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 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 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 ...

D. in Plasma Physics, Engineering, or a closely related field. At TAE Technologies, we consider a wide range of factors when making compensation decisions including but not limited to skill sets ...

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Physics Programmer information

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$16

$30

$44

How much do physics programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 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 is a physics programmer?

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 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.

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.

How do you become a physics programmer?

To become a physics programmer, you typically need a strong background in physics and computer science, often demonstrated through a bachelor's degree in a related field. Proficiency in programming languages such as C++ or Python, experience with physics simulation tools, and understanding of algorithms are essential. Gaining practical experience through projects, internships, or contributing to open-source physics engines can also help build relevant skills.

Is computational physics in demand?

Computational physics is in demand across industries such as aerospace, defense, and research institutions, where simulation and modeling skills are essential. Physics programmers with expertise in programming languages like C++ and Python, as well as experience with high-performance computing, are sought after for developing complex models and simulations.

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:

Infographic showing various Physics Programmer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 73% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 24% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,546 per year, or $30.6 per hour.

Physics Instructor (Temporary Part-Time Pool)

City College of San Francisco

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$2.1K - $3.3K/wk

Part-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

Posting Details
Posting Summary
Position Title
Physics Instructor (Temporary Part-Time Pool)
Posting Type
Wide Distribution
Department
Physics
Campus
Ocean Campus
Location
Job Category
Faculty (Credit Program)
Salary (Applicant View)
Compensation is determined in accordance with the City College of San Francisco Faculty Salary Schedule for Pay-by-workload assignments. The workload compensation upon entry currently ranges from $2,163.36 to $3,302.80 per workload unit, depending upon placement.
Appointment Type
Faculty - Part-Time Pool
Full Time/Part Time
Part Time
Start Date
End Date
Position Description
The Physics Department is currently seeking part-time faculty to provide instruction in a range of physics courses, including conceptual, algebra-based, and calculus-based physics courses, and associated laboratory sections. We serve students pursuing majors in engineering, physics, computer science, life sciences, health sciences, and other STEM disciplines, as well as non-science majors completing general education requirements. The department is committed to student-centered instruction, equity-minded teaching practices, and maintaining rigorous academic and laboratory standards.
Assignments are predominantly in-person at the Ocean Campus. However, instructors may be asked to teach online or hybrid courses or to teach at the Mission Campus, depending on departmental needs. Classes are typically scheduled Monday through Friday, with assignments that may include both daytime and evening hours.
Job Duties
1. Teach assigned lecture and/or laboratory courses in physics in accordance with approved course outlines of record.
2. Prepare and deliver instruction that supports diverse learning styles and promotes student engagement.
3. Develop and evaluate exams, laboratory activities, and other assessments aligned with course learning outcomes.
4. Maintain accurate academic records and submit grades in a timely manner.
5. Utilize the college's learning management system (Canvas) to post course materials, communicate with students, maintain grades, and support student engagement.
6. Provide regular academic support to students through timely communication, constructive feedback on assignments, and responsiveness to student inquiries.
7. Maintain safe laboratory environments consistent with institutional policies and safety regulations.
8. Participate in department meetings, student learning outcomes assessments and other duties as assigned.
9. Integrate appropriate instructional technologies, laboratory equipment, and data acquisition tools into coursework.
10. Support and engage in an innovative culture of culturally responsive, inclusive and anti-racist practices as it relates to student success with an awareness of student equity gaps.
6. Participate in ongoing training on diversity, equity, inclusion and anti-racism to center pedagogy.
7. Perform other related duties as assigned by the supervisor.
Minimum Qualifications
1. Demonstrated knowledge, skills, and abilities to work with community college students with disabilities, various sexual orientations, and diverse academic, socioeconomic, cultural, and ethnic backgrounds (Required).
2. Earned a Master's Degree in Physics, Astronomy or Astrophysics from an accredited institution;
OR
Earned a Bachelor's degree in Physics or Astronomy from an accredited institution AND earned Master's Degree in Engineering, Mathematics, Meteorology or Geophysics
OR
Hold a fully-satisfied LIFE California Community College Instructor Credential (California credentials were no longer issued after July 1, 1990).
[The degree major(s) posted on an applicant's transcript(s) must be exactly as listed above under the degree requirements. Otherwise applicant must claim education equivalency for the formal educational requirement. Applicants who are currently enrolled in Ph.D. programs that do not award a master's degree also need to claim education equivalency. The "Faculty Equivalency Application Form" is available on the left side margin. This form will be considered as part of the application materials and must be submitted on or before the filing deadline as indicated on this job posting.]
[If you have previously gone through the education equivalency for this same subject area from City College of San Francisco OR you have obtained the clarification of your "major" from the department chair/dean of the institution you attended in order to meet the minimum qualification for this job posting, you must submit a copy of the information. When attaching this document, please use the "Equivalency Application Form" link.]
Desirable Qualifications
1. Earned a Bachelor's AND a Master's/Ph.D. degree in Physics from an accredited institution.
2. Demonstrated experience teaching physics at the community college or university level.
3. Demonstrated experience teaching both lecture and laboratory courses in algebra-based and/or calculus-based physics.
4. Commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, and culturally responsive teaching practices.
5. Demonstrated experience supporting students from historically underrepresented and disproportionately impacted groups.
6. Familiarity with laboratory safety standards and supervision of instructional labs.
7. Demonstrated experience using instructional technology, simulation software, and/or digital data acquisition systems.
8. Ability to teach in multiple modalities, including in-person, hybrid, and online formats.
9. Strong communication, organizational, and classroom management skills.
10. Demonstrated instructional experience at the university or college level using culturally responsive pedagogy.
11. Demonstrated experience with and knowledge of inequities in higher education and a commitment to rectifying policies and processes that restrict access for historically minoritized and disproportionately impacted students.
Benefits
Application Procedure
To apply for this posting, start by completing an online Faculty Position Application Form at http://jobs.ccsf.edu. To be considered a candidate for this posting, the following materials must be submitted and received by the Human Resources Department on or before 11:59 p.m. of the posting filing deadline. Substitution of required document(s) is not permitted.
Applicant: Please do not send any application materials to the Department Chair. Human Resources Department is not responsible for any documents addressed and/or sent to the Department Chair.
1. A detailed letter expressing interest in the position, indicating specifically how the minimum qualifications and as many as possible of the desirable qualifications will be fulfilled. Minimum and desirable qualifications are listed in this posting. The letter should also address the applicant's background and skills in the areas stated in the Examples of Duties.
2. A current resume summarizing educational background, teaching experience, and related work experience.
3. A City College of San Francisco Electronic Faculty Position Application completed in full and applied to this specific posting online. The statement "See Resume" is not acceptable.
4. Three (3) current references - Names and contact information. The list of references must include current supervisors/employers, or other professionals, who have knowledge of the responsibilities/duties specific to this type of position.
5. Copies of transcripts verifying the degrees and majors as listed on applicant's CCSF Application Form; official transcripts and actual verification of work experience will be required at a later date. [NOTE: Degrees and majors must be posted on transcripts to be considered in the application process. Foreign degree(s) must be evaluated before an application can be processed. Foreign Degree Evaluation sources information is located on the left side margin.]
6. Diversity Statement: Separate from your letter of interest, submit a concise response using only one page to discuss how your course content and teaching methods meet the needs of culturally and academically diverse learners. List classes or professional development activities you have participated in that directly relate to working with diverse student populations. (Note: Substitution of "diversity statement" with a "teaching philosophy" document will be automatically disqualified.)
Applicants bear the sole responsibility for ensuring that all application materials are complete when submitted and are received by the Human Resources Department by 11:59 p.m. on the posting filing deadline. Postmarks will not be honored. Emails are not acceptable. Incomplete application packages will not be considered. All application materials become the property of the City College of San Francisco and will not be returned. Application files for this posting will not be considered for other postings.
For additional assistance, please call Human Resources Department at (415) 452-7660.
ADA Statement
Applicants who require a reasonable accommodation to participate in this hiring process should contact the Human Resources Department at workrestrictions@ccsf.edu to make the necessary arrangements. Please be aware that verification of a covered disability under the ADA may be required.
Selection Procedure/Conditions of Employment
Applicants who meet all minimum qualifications and have all required application documents in the CCSF Human Resources Department on or before the filing deadline will be included in the initial review processes to be conducted by the Search Committee. A reasonable number of applicants who are judged by the Committee as best matching the requirements of the position will be invited for a personal interview with the Search Committee. An additional interview will be offered to applicants who are advanced beyond the initial interviews (full-time position only).
Employees must satisfy all the pre-employment requirements for a CCSF Release to Work Authorization Certificate prior to appointment which include, but are not limited to, tuberculosis clearance (EC 87408.6), fingerprinting processing, and verification of their legal right to work in the United States.
City College of San Francisco reserves the right at its sole discretion to modify or to rescind this job posting at any time without prior notice.
EEO Statement
It is the policy of the City College of San Francisco to provide all persons with equal employment and educational opportunities regardless of race, color, ancestry, national origin, ethnic group identification, religion, age, gender, marital status, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, disability or AIDS/HIV status, medical conditions, gender identity, or status as a Vietnam-Era veteran. These categories specifically include status as a lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or questioning person in any District program or activity. For further information, contact the Human Resources Department at OCRcompliance@ccsf.edu.
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number
AC00236P
Job Open Date
04/24/2026
Application Review Date
Job Close Date
04/27/2027
Open Until Filled
No
Contact
Linda Nguyen, Human Resources
Contact Phone/Extension
Contact Email
hnnguyen@ccsf.edu
Special Instructions to Applicant
City College of San Francisco will accept applications with all required supporting documentation at any time until posting closing date. Screening and interviews can be conducted at any point in time as the department desires; a part-time hiring pool or pools will be developed and be in effect for a one-year period from which temporary appointments will be made on an as-needed basis.