1

Physics Programmer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior Plasma and Laser Physics Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$110K - $152K/yr

Senior Plasma and Laser Physics Engineer Introduction to the job ASML US, including its affiliates and subsidiaries, bring together the most creative minds in science and technology to develop ...

Reactor Physics Engineer I & II

Houston, TX · On-site

$94K - $112K/yr

REACTOR PHYSICS & NEUTRONICS ENGINEER II Deployable Energy Position Summary Early to Mid-career technical professional supporting reactor physics and neutronics activities within a nuclear energy ...

We are particularly interested in candidates with experience in experimental condensed matter, materials, or applied physics, in part to support engineering-related initiatives. We will also consider ...

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.

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.

Flight Physics Engineer

San Leandro, CA · On-site

$140K - $180K/yr

Flight Physics Engineer Company: Grid.aero Location: Onsite 4 days/week [San Leandro, CA] About Grid.aero Grid.aero is building the next generation of autonomous aviation systems for defense and ...

Flight Physics Engineer

San Leandro, CA · On-site

$140K - $180K/yr

Flight Physics Engineer Company: Grid.aero Location: Onsite 4 days/week [San Leandro, CA] About Grid.aero Grid.aero is building the next generation of autonomous aviation systems for defense and ...

Showing results 21-40

Physics Programmer information

See salary details

$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 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 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.
More about Physics Programmer jobs

What cities are hiring for Physics Programmer jobs?

Cities with the most Physics Programmer job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Physics Programmer jobs?

The most popular types of Physics Programmer jobs are:

Who are the top companies hiring for Physics Programmer jobs?

The top employers for Physics Programmer jobs are:

What states have the most Physics Programmer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Physics Programmer jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Physics Programmer jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Physics Programmer jobs are:

Infographic showing various Physics Programmer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,389 per year, or $31 per hour.

Senior Plasma and Laser Physics Engineer

ASML

San Diego, CA • On-site

$110K - $152K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Design, validate, and review new features to improve the performance and reliability of DUV laser discharge chambers.

  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop and productize new technologies that enhance chamber performance.

  • Validate concepts through prototype builds, system testing, and analysis, and prepare technical documentation.


ASML rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 42 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

22nd of 499 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Senior Plasma and Laser Physics Engineer
Introduction to the job
ASML US, including its affiliates and subsidiaries, bring together the most creative minds in science and technology to develop lithography machines that are key to producing faster, cheaper, more energy-efficient microchips. We design, develop, integrate, market and service these advanced machines, which enable our customers - the world's leading chipmakers - to reduce the size and increase the functionality of their microchips, which in turn leads to smaller, more powerful consumer electronics.
Cymer is an independently operated business within the ASML group that develops, manufactures and services deep-ultraviolet (DUV) light sources. The product portfolio includes excimer lasers using argon fluoride (ArF) or krypton fluoride (KrF) gases to generate light in the deep-ultraviolet spectrum. These lasers generate the light that photolithography scanners use to image patterns on silicon wafers. The research, development and manufacturing of DUV light sources is centered in San Diego.
The Discharge Chamber is one of the core modules for DUV light sources, where the discharge plasma is generated to provide DUV light (193nm or 248nm). The development goals include extending chamber lifetime, improving energy efficiency and stability, reducing cost, etc. Achieving these goals requires extensive collaboration among plasma physics, material science, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, flow dynamics, and more. If you have a passion for technology and innovation, please join us to develop this complex and challenging DUV discharge plasma chamber!
This position does NOT require a green card and the company will sponsor a working visa (H1-B, O1, etc.), as well as the green card application in the future.
This position may require access to controlled technology, as defined in the Export Administration Regulations (15 C.F.R. § 730, et seq.). Qualified candidates must be legally authorized to access such controlled technology prior to beginning work. Business demands may require the Company to proceed with candidates who are immediately eligible to access controlled technology.
Role and responsibilities
A Sr. Plasma and Laser Physics Engineer is the technical owner for the development of Cymer DUV laser discharge chambers: responsible for designing, validating and reviewing new features that improve chamber performance. The Plasma and Laser Physics Engineer works in a cross-functional team with Program/Project Managers, Technical Marketing, and System Engineers to develop and productize new technologies that enhance chamber performance.
Duties and Responsibilities
  • Drives the development & integration of innovative core technology elements and/or system concepts to improve excimer laser chambers.
  • Applies knowledge and experience in engineering (electrical engineering or mechanical engineering) or physics (electromagnetics, flow dynamics, plasma physics or acoustics) to improve the performance and reliability of excimer laser chambers.
  • Validates concepts through prototype builds, system level testing and analysis.
  • Independently investigates scientific and technical problems and challenges and evaluates and recommends solutions.
  • Interacts with customers, suppliers and peers, prepares and presents reports to management, as well as in internal meetings and conferences.
  • Assists management on technical aspects of external collaboration activities.
  • Prepares and revises technical documentation, including technical memos, specification documents and design validation reports.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Education and experience
  • Minimum of three (3) years of relevant industry or research institute experience is required with Master's degree. Less experience required for PhD.
  • Minimal educational degree requirement: Master's degree. PhD is strongly preferred. Areas: Physics, Plasma Physics, Material Science, Metallurgy, Electrical Engineering, Engineering Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Physical Chemistry or a related Engineering/Applied Physics.
  • Specialty: plasma-materials (especially metal) interaction and gas-state laser physics.

Skills
Working at the cutting edge of tech, you'll always have new challenges and new problems to solve - and collaboration is the only way to do that. You'll be part of a creative, dynamic work environment with supportive colleagues. There is always space for innovation and you'll have the flexibility and trust to choose how best to tackle tasks and solve problems.
To thrive in this job, you'll need the following skills:
  • Track record of proposing and validating innovative solutions to technical problems.
  • Extensive experimental experience and skills in a laboratory environment.
  • Extensive experience using MATLAB or Python for data analysis.
  • Practical experience with laser systems either in manufacturing or laboratory environments.
  • Experience with CAD design for mechanical parts, i.e. Creo, SolidWorks.
  • Experience with project planning and execution.
  • Experience leading a successfully completed project.
  • Ability to translate, statistically analyze data, and effectively report problems through written and/or graphical formats.
  • Advanced experimental and analytical skills to define requirements and devise solutions to technical issues.
  • Ability to develop and review conceptual or engineering models.
  • Ability to think through, plan, and develop complex experiments and tests.
  • Ability to carry a product design from conception into production.
  • Experience with plasmas, electromagnetics, lasers, flow dynamics and acoustics is preferred.
  • Experience with excimer Lasers or other gas-state discharge lasers is a plus.
  • Experience with Semiconductor Capital Equipment is a plus.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to use MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and electronic e-mail systems.

Diversity & Inclusion
ASML is an Equal Opportunity Employer that values and respects the importance of a diverse and inclusive workforce. It is the policy of the company to recruit, hire, train and promote persons in all job titles without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, or gender identity. We recognize that diversity and inclusion is a driving force in the success of our company.
Other information
#LI-MO1
EOE AA M/F/Veteran/Disability
Need to know more about applying for a job at ASML? Read our frequently asked questions.
The current base annual salary range for this role is currently:
$117,750-176,625
Pay scales are determined by role, level, location and alignment with market data. Individual pay is determined through interviews and an assessment of several factors that that are unique to each candidate, including but not limited to job-related skills, relevant education and experience, certifications, abilities of the candidate and pay relative to other team members.
The Company offers employees and their families, medical, dental, vision, and basic life insurance. Employees are able to participate in the Company's 401k plan. Employees will also receive eight (8) hours of vacation leave every month and (13) paid holidays throughout the calendar year. For more information, please contact the Recruiter or click on this link Compensation & Benefits in the US.
All new ASML jobs have a minimum application deadline of 10 days.
Inclusion and diversity
ASML is an Equal Opportunity Employer that values and respects the importance of a diverse and inclusive workforce. It is the policy of the company to recruit, hire, train and promote persons in all job titles without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, or gender identity. We recognize that inclusion and diversity is a driving force in the success of our company.
Need to know more about applying for a job at ASML? Read our frequently asked questions.
Request an Accommodation
ASML provides reasonable accommodations to applicants for ASML employment and ASML employees with disabilities. An accommodation is a change in work rules, facilities, or conditions which enable an individual with a disability to apply for a job, perform the essential functions of a job, and/or enjoy equal access to the benefits and privileges of employment. If you are in need of an accommodation to complete an application, participate in an interview, or otherwise participate in the employee pre-selection process, please send an email to USHR_Accommodation@asml.com to initiate the company's reasonable accommodation process.
Please note: This email address is solely intended to provide a method for applicants to initiate ASML's process to request accommodation(s). Any recruitment questions should be directed to the designated Talent Acquisition member for the position.

What ASML employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom