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Physics Software Engineer Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Senior Software Engineer I

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$115K - $152K/yr

SENIOR SOFTWARE ENGINEER I Rocket Lab's Optical Systems division solves mission-critical space ... Bachelor's degree in physics, astronomy, mathematics, computer science, electrical engineering ...

Senior Software Engineer I

Tucson, AZ

$115K - $152K/yr

SENIOR SOFTWARE ENGINEER I Rocket Lab's Optical Systems division solves mission-critical space ... Bachelor's degree in physics, astronomy, mathematics, computer science, electrical engineering ...

... software engineering and design enablement/tool optimization. 10+ years of experience in the ... In-depth knowledge of Semiconductor device physics, process technology, and design rules. * EM ...

EDA Tools Software Engineer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$149K - $284K/yr

... software engineering and design enablement/tool optimization. 10+ years of experience in the ... In-depth knowledge of Semiconductor device physics, process technology, and design rules. * EM ...

Data Engineer

Tempe, AZ · On-site

$111K - $133K/yr

... Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Math, Physics or a related field • Ability to travel up to 10% • Strong analytical abilities • US Citizenship required Preferred : • ...

Showing results 21-40

Physics Software Engineer information

See Arizona salary details

$59.2K

$137.5K

$191.5K

How much do physics software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for physics software engineer in Arizona is $137,475.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $111,800.00 and $161,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Physics Software Engineer vs Data Scientist?

AspectPhysics Software EngineerData Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Physics, Computer Science, or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Data Science, Statistics, Computer Science, or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, tech companies, aerospace, or defense industriesTech firms, finance, healthcare, or consulting companies
Industry UsagePhysics research, simulation, modeling, and software developmentData analysis, machine learning, predictive modeling, and data visualization

Physics Software Engineers focus on developing software for physics applications, simulations, and research, often working in research or engineering environments. Data Scientists analyze large datasets to extract insights and build predictive models. While both roles require strong programming skills, Physics Software Engineers emphasize physics principles, whereas Data Scientists focus on data analysis and statistical methods.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a physics software engineer?

To thrive as a Physics Software Engineer, you need a strong background in physics, mathematics, and computer science, typically supported by a degree in physics, engineering, or a related field. Proficiency in programming languages such as C++, Python, or MATLAB, and experience with simulation software or scientific computing libraries are essential. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and interpreting complex data. These skills are vital for developing accurate, efficient software solutions that model physical systems and drive innovation in scientific and engineering projects.

What is a physics software engineer?

A Physics Software Engineer is a professional who develops, maintains, and optimizes software that simulates or models physical systems and phenomena. They often work at the intersection of physics, computer science, and engineering, creating tools for scientific research, simulations, or real-time physics engines used in industries like gaming, aerospace, or research institutions. These engineers typically have a strong background in both physics and programming, enabling them to translate complex physical formulas and concepts into efficient and accurate code. Their work is crucial for advancing technology in areas such as computational physics, virtual reality, and engineering design.

How does a physics software engineer typically collaborate with scientists and other engineering teams during a project?

Physics Software Engineers often work closely with physicists, data scientists, and hardware engineers to translate complex physical models into reliable software solutions. Collaboration usually involves regular meetings to clarify requirements, iterative development cycles to test and validate simulation accuracy, and ongoing feedback to refine algorithms. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as engineers must bridge the gap between theoretical concepts and practical implementation while ensuring that software integrates smoothly with other systems. This collaborative environment fosters continuous learning and problem-solving, making the role both challenging and rewarding.
What cities in Arizona are hiring for Physics Software Engineer jobs? Cities in Arizona with the most Physics Software Engineer job openings:

Senior Software Engineer I

Rocket Lab Corporation

Tucson, AZ • On-site

$115K - $152K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Rocket Lab rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 71 rated aerospace companies


Job description

ABOUT ROCKET LAB

Rocket Lab is an end-to-end space company delivering responsive launch services, complete spacecraft design and manufacturing, payloads, satellite components, and more – all with the goal of opening access to space. The rockets and satellites we build and launch enable some of the most ambitious and vital space missions globally, supporting scientific exploration, Earth observation and missions to combat climate change, national security, and exciting new technology demonstrations.

Our Electron rocket has become the second most frequently launched U.S. rocket annually and has delivered more than 230 satellites to orbit, all while we work to develop Neutron, our upcoming medium-lift, reusable launch vehicle for larger constellation deployment. Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their components, including spacecraft that have been selected to support NASA missions to the Moon and Mars and components used on the James Webb Space Telescope.

SPACE SYSTEMS

At Rocket Lab, we're not just launching rockets — we're building the future of space. Our Space Systems team builds everything from complete spacecraft, precision payloads to the components and subsystems that allow them to thrive in space, like solar panels, flight software, star trackers, optical systems, separation systems, radios, and more.

Our Space Systems team has enabled more than 1,700 missions, ranging from interplanetary exploration, in-space manufacturing to national security and defense initiatives. The team has built spacecraft, payloads, and components for missions to the Moon and Mars, working with partners including NASA, the Space Development Agency, and the U.S. Space Force. Whether it's a single high-performance spacecraft, constellation, or the vertically integrated components that help them get to space — our world class Space Systems team is empowering some of the boldest and most ambitious space missions.

SENIOR SOFTWARE ENGINEER I

Rocket Lab's Optical Systems division solves mission-critical space domain and Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) challenges for Department of Defense (DoD) and Intelligence Community (IC) customers. Our vision is to revolutionize the space-based payload market with innovative and novel designs for space, terrestrial, and airborne environments. Building on more than 20 years of electro-optical and infrared systems innovation from Geost, Optical Systems delivers solutions to the warfighter for responsive, scalable sensing solutions across all orbital domains.

As a Senior Software Engineer I based at our Optical Systems sites in Tucson, AZ, you will have the opportunity to support Tranche 3 of the U.S. Space Development Agency's (SDA) Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA) by building deep learning neural networks for advanced Electro-Optical (EO/IR) technology.

WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO

  • Collaborate with researchers on artificial intelligence, machine learning, and computer vision.
  • Preform rapid prototyping and enhanced development to be integrated into operational systems.
  • Contribute programming ability and experience to develop solutions for real-world problems.
  • Validate, tune, test, and deploy advanced neural networks and algorithms.
  • Perform troubleshooting, bug fixes, and maintenance of existing and new code to ensure stability.
  • Ability to support travel or off-site work, as needed

YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS SENIOR SOFTWARE ENGINEER I:

  • Bachelor's degree in physics, astronomy, mathematics, computer science, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering or equivalent discipline with 5+ years of experience
  • Experience in building deep learning neural network for computer vision, image processing, or video analysis
  • Ability to obtain and maintain an U.S. Government Security Clearance

THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:

  • Proficiency in C++ or Python 3
  • Experience with deep learning libraries (PyTorch and TensorFlow)
  • Experience across the deep learning life cycle, including model selection, training, validation, testing, and deployment.
  • Understanding of computer vision approaches, such as object detection, image segmentation, re-Identification, tracking, and super resolution
  • Machine learning experience with 3-D data.
  • Experience curating quality, real-world datasets for training deep learning models

This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas.

WHAT TO EXPECT

We're on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that's not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work, and out-pace. We pride ourselves on having each other's backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.

Important information:

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN US OFFICES ONLY:

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Rocket Lab Employees must be a U.S. citizen, lawful U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or the U.S. Department of Commerce, as applicable. Learn more about ITAR here.

Rocket Lab provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment at Rocket Lab, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for the application/interview process for a job in the United States should contact Giulia Johnson at g.biow@rocketlabusa.com.This dedicated resource is intended solely to assist job seekers with disabilities whose disability prevents them from being able to apply/interview. Only messages left for this purpose will be considered. A response to your request may take up to two business days.

FOR CANDIDATES SEEKING TO WORK IN NEW ZEALAND OFFICES ONLY:

For security reasons, background checks will be undertaken prior to any employment offers being made to an applicant. These checks will include nationality checks as it is a requirement of this position that you be eligible to access equipment and data regulated by the United States' International Traffic in Arms Regulations.

Under these Regulations, you may be ineligible for this role if you do not hold citizenship of Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, the European Union, or a country that is part of NATO, or if you hold ineligible dual citizenship or nationality. For more information on these Regulations, click here ITAR Regulations.


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