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Physics Programmer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Wheaton College

Lab Manager- Physics

Wheaton, IL · On-site

$45K - $49K/yr

D. degree in physics, engineering or a related discipline is required. Demonstrated experience with lab equipment and computer interfaces is required. Strong communication and organizing skills are ...

Electra

Staff / Senior Flight Physics Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$110K - $160K/yr

Staff / Senior Flight Physics Engineer About Electra At Electra, we're pioneering hybrid-electric Ultra Short Takeoff and Landing aircraft that redefine regional air mobility. Our technology enables ...

Wheaton College

Lab Manager- Physics

Wheaton, IL

$45K - $49K/yr

D. degree in physics, engineering or a related discipline is required. Demonstrated experience with lab equipment and computer interfaces is required. Strong communication and organizing skills are ...

Electra

Staff / Senior Flight Physics Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$110K - $160K/yr

Staff / Senior Flight Physics Engineer About Electra At Electra, we're pioneering hybrid-electric Ultra Short Takeoff and Landing aircraft that redefine regional air mobility. Our technology enables ...

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Roblox

Principal Software Engineer, Physics

San Mateo, CA · On-site

$295K - $345K/yr

You will report to the Physics Environment Engineering Manager. You Will: * Innovate and implement powerful physics features that empower Roblox developers to create immersive and dynamic experiences.

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How much do physics programmer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for physics programmer in the United States is $30.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.48 and $34.86 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.

Are physicists good at programming?

Physicists often develop strong programming skills through their work in data analysis, simulations, and modeling, which are essential in research and experimental setups. Many physicists use programming languages like Python, C++, or MATLAB, making them capable programmers, especially in technical and scientific contexts.

What is the highest paid field in physics?

In physics-related careers, roles such as medical physicists, aerospace engineers, and physicists working in data science or finance tend to have the highest salaries. These positions often require advanced degrees, specialized skills, and experience with complex tools like simulation software or programming languages, leading to higher compensation.

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.

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, and understanding real-time rendering is also important, often through a combination of formal education, self-study, and practical projects.

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.
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Physics Programmer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Physics Programmer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,389 per year, or $31 per hour.
Instructor - Medical Physics and Engineering [Req#: 938270, Position#: 131380]

Instructor - Medical Physics and Engineering [Req#: 938270, Position#: 131380]

UT Southwestern Medical Center

Dallas, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

UT Southwestern rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 147 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

104th of 877 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Description
An Instructor position is available immediately in the Division of Medical Physics and Engineering within the Department of Radiation Oncology at The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. This position is ideal for an individual interested in pursuing a career in computational medical physics, medical engineering, and clinical software development.
Applicants must have a Ph.D. in physics, engineering, applied mathematics, computer science, or a related discipline. Strong programming skills are essential. The ideal candidate will have a passion for scientific programming and demonstrated experience developing software tools for research or clinical applications. Excellent written and oral communication skills are also required, along with initiative, problem-solving ability, and a strong commitment to teamwork.
This position is part of an ongoing effort to translate our extensive research in artificial intelligence and other computational fields into clinical practice. Contributions to open-source software through platforms such as GitHub, Stack Overflow, and CodeProject are highly desirable.
Experience with web-based application frameworks, database management, and programming languages such as Python, C++/C#, JavaScript, and Go is preferred. Knowledge of Django, Docker, and Kubernetes is a strong plus.
The candidate is expected to work closely with clinical medical physicists and researchers in Medical Artificial Intelligence and Automation Lab (http://www.utsouthwestern.edu/labs/maia).

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