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Physics Programmer Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Microsoft

Senior EE - Systems Operations Engineer

Redmond, WA · On-site

$117K - $160K/yr

Doctorate in Physics, Engineering, or related field AND 1+ year(s) experience in industry or in a research and development environment, could include completion of a post doctoral research position

Helion Energy

Director of Plasma Physics

Everett, WA · On-site

$289K - $315K/yr

Build, grow, and lead a team of scientists and engineers who will apply their knowledge and expertise in plasma physics to optimize Helion's fusion devices * Provide clear and concise summaries of ...

Microsoft

Senior Quantum Analog Layout Engineer

Redmond, WA · On-site

$123K - $165K/yr

Our full-stack strategy spans the physics of quantum devices through scalable readout and control ... As a Senior Quantum Analog Layout Engineer on the Quantum 1st Party Hardware ASIC team, you will ...

Fusion Energy Base

Director of Plasma Physics

Everett, WA · On-site

$180 - $260/hr

Build, grow, and lead a team of scientists and engineers who will apply their knowledge and expertise in plasma physics to optimize Helion's fusion devices * Provide clear and concise summaries of ...

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Physics Programmer information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$19

$35

$51

How much do physics programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for physics programmer in Seattle, WA is $35.23, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.99 and $39.66 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 popular job titles related to Physics Programmer jobs in Seattle, WA?

For Physics Programmer jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Physics Programmer jobs in Seattle, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Physics Programmer jobs in Seattle, WA are:

Physics Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Physics Programmer job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,275 per year, or $35.2 per hour.

Senior EE - Systems Operations Engineer

Microsoft

Redmond, WA • On-site

$117K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Lead end-to-end planning and execution for electrical engineering initiatives, including PCB development, validation, integration, and risk mitigation.

  • Drive complex PCB supplier and manufacturing engagements by coordinating capability assessments, process development, and performance tracking.

  • Partner with cross-disciplinary teams to align deliverables, resolve blockers, and support high-quality hardware execution.

Microsoft rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 134 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

69th of 247 rated software companies

Job description

Overview
Overview
Microsoft's Quantum Hardware organization is working at the forefront of science and technology, building breakthrough computing systems at the intersection of advanced physics, high-performance electronics, and world-class engineering on our mission to bring scalable quantum computing to the world. Microsoft Quantum will change the world of computing and help solve some of humankind's currently unsolvable problems. For more information about our team, visit https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/quantum.
We are seeking a Senior EE- Systems Operations Engineer with an electrical engineering background to lead complex printed circuit board (PCB) supplier engagements, drive process development, coordinate multidisciplinary hardware teams, and oversee program schedules, budgets, and resource planning. This role is ideal for a leader who thrives in fast-paced environments, excels at cross-functional execution, and brings clarity and structure to highly technical programs. You will partner with electrical engineers, supply chain, fabrication partners, system integrators, and leadership teams to deliver high-quality hardware on aggressive timelines.
Microsoft's mission is to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more. As employees we come together with a growth mindset, innovate to empower others, and collaborate to realize our shared goals. Each day we build on our values of respect, integrity, and accountability to create a culture of inclusion where everyone can thrive at work and beyond.
Responsibilities
  • Lead end-to-end planning and execution for electrical engineering initiatives, including PCB and/or superconducting integrated circuits development, validation, integration, sustaining activities, program schedules, critical paths, risk mitigation, and cross-team dependencies.
  • Drive complex PCB supplier and manufacturing engagements by coordinating capability assessments, technical reviews, readiness evaluations, process development, stack-ups, design rules, yield improvement, cost optimization, and performance tracking.
  • Partner across qubit design, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, systems engineering, reliability, sourcing, supply chain, fabrication partners, contract manufacturers, system integrators, and leadership teams to align deliverables, resolve blockers, and support high-quality execution.
  • Develop and improve electrical and PCB development processes, documentation, quality frameworks, design review practices, design for manufacturing, testability, and validation workflows, manufacturing readiness processes, dashboards, and reporting mechanisms.
  • Own program budget, resource, and portfolio planning for assigned efforts, including build costs, vendor non-recurring engineering, capital needs, engineering resource forecasts, cost scenario modeling, actuals tracking, and alignment to fiscal expectations.
  • Communicate clearly across technical and executive audiences, synthesize engineering and supplier input into decision frameworks, influence outcomes without direct authority, and mentor other engineering planning coordinators and engineers while reinforcing Microsoft's values and inclusive culture.
    • Embody our Culture and Values

Qualifications
Required/Minimum Qualifications
  • Doctorate in Physics, Engineering, or related field AND 1+ year(s) experience in industry or in a research and development environment, could include completion of a post doctoral research position
    • OR Master's Degree in Physics, Engineering, or related field AND 4+ years experience in industry or in a research and development environment
    • OR Bachelor's Degree in Physics, Engineering, or related field AND 6+ years experience in industry or in a research and development environment
    • OR equivalent experience.

Other Qualifications
  • Ability to meet Microsoft, customer and/or government security screening requirements are required for this role. These requirements include, but are not limited to the following specialized security screenings:
    • Microsoft Cloud Background Check: This position will be required to pass the Microsoft Cloud Background Check upon hire/transfer and every two years thereafter.
    • Citizenship & Citizenship Verification: This role will require access to information that is controlled for export under export control regulations, potentially under the U.S. International Traffic in Arms Regulations or Export Administration Regulations, the EU Dual Use Regulation, and/or other export control regulations. As a condition of employment, the successful candidate will be required to provide proof of citizenship, U.S. permanent residency, or other protected status (e.g., under 8 U.S.C. § 1324b(a)(3)) for assessment of eligibility to access the export-controlled information. To meet this legal requirement, and as a condition of employment, the successful candidate's citizenship will be verified with a valid passport. Lawful permanent residents, refugees, and asylees may verify status using other documents, where applicable.

Preferred Qualifications
  • 10+ years of experience in engineering program management, hardware development, technical leadership, or a related field, with a track record of delivering complex cross-functional programs from concept to production.
  • Experience working directly with PCBs and/or superconducting integrated circuit design teams, fabrication vendors, electronics manufacturing services and contract manufacturers (EMS/CMs), and external suppliers.
  • Strong understanding of electrical engineering fundamentals, including PCB stack-ups, superconducting integrated circuits, signal integrity, power delivery, and manufacturing constraints.
  • Experience in advanced hardware domains such as quantum systems, high-performance computing, or complex embedded systems.
  • Familiarity with design for manufacturing and design for test (DFM/DFT), process development, and early-stage technology maturation.
  • Experience building project schedules, managing budgets, planning resources, and partnering across matrixed teams.
  • Ability to manage supplier performance, support technical engagements, and drive accountability across internal and external stakeholders.
  • Ability to leverage AI tools to drive innovation and efficiency (e.g., performance modeling and analysis, research gathering, day to day task automation).
  • Ability to work in an "AI-first" environment using modern AI tools to accelerate discovery through hardware development.

#microsoft #quantum
Quantum Engineering IC4 - The typical base pay range for this role across the U.S. is USD $119,800 - $234,700 per year. There is a different range applicable to specific work locations, within the San Francisco Bay area and New York City metropolitan area, and the base pay range for this role in those locations is USD $160,200 - $261,000 per year.
Certain roles may be eligible for benefits and other compensation. Find additional benefits and pay information here:
https://careers.microsoft.com/us/en/us-corporate-pay
This position will be open for a minimum of 5 days, with applications accepted on an ongoing basis until the position is filled.
Microsoft is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, citizenship, color, family or medical care leave, gender identity or expression, genetic information, immigration status, marital status, medical condition, national origin, physical or mental disability, political affiliation, protected veteran or military status, race, ethnicity, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by applicable local laws, regulations and ordinances. If you need assistance with religious accommodations and/or a reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application process, read more about requesting accommodations.

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About Microsoft

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Our infrastructure is comprised of a large global portfolio of more than 100 datacenters and 1 million servers. Our foundation is built upon and managed by a team of subject matter experts working to support services for more than 1 billion customers and 20 million businesses in over 90 countries worldwide. With environmental sustainability and optimization at the forefront of our datacenter design and operations, we continue to grow and evolve as we meet the ever-changing business demands that hold Microsoft as a world-class cloud provider.

Industry

Computer and computer peripheral equipment and software wholesalers

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Redmond, WA, US

Year founded

1975

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