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Physics Software Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Metron

Software Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

We are seeking a talented software engineer with a strong computer science background to assist in ... Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, Applied Math, or related field * At ...

Leidos

Software Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$87.10K - $157.45K/yr

You'll join a cross-disciplinary team of scientists and engineers-experts in hydrodynamics, physics, acoustics, and signal processing -to build high-impact software that extracts meaning from massive ...

Leidos

Software Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site +1

$87.10K - $157.45K/yr

You'll join a cross-disciplinary team of scientists and engineers-experts in hydrodynamics, physics, acoustics, and signal processing -to build high-impact software that extracts meaning from massive ...

Metron

Software Engineer

San Diego, CA

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, Applied Math, or related field * At least 5 years of experience as a Software Engineer or Developer * Active Secret Clearance * Experience ...

K2 Space

Simulation Software Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

$123K - $200K/yr

Develop physics-based software models of spacecraft subsystems, including propulsion, attitude ... Perform analyses of constellation capabilities and performance to support business and engineering ...

Toyon

AI/ML Software Engineer

Goleta, CA

$120K - $200K/yr

Our software engineers work closely with our researchers and customers to create state-of-the-art ... Candidates should possess strong math and physics knowledge to enable developing advanced AI/ML ...

Metron

Software Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

Required : • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, Applied Math, or related field • At least 5 years of experience as a Software Engineer or Developer • Active Secret ...

SpaceX

Software Engineer, Simulation

Hawthorne, CA

$145K - $175K/yr

The team consists of world-class experts in solidification physics, casting, metallurgy, and ... software engineering experience. * 1+ years of experience leveraging Python for data analysis.

SpaceX

Software Engineer, Simulation

Hawthorne, CA

$145K - $175K/yr

The team consists of world-class experts in solidification physics, casting, metallurgy, and ... software engineering experience. * 1+ years of experience leveraging Python for data analysis.

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Physics Software Engineer information

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$62.7K

$145.6K

$202.8K

How much do physics software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for physics software engineer in California is $145,592.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $118,400.00 and $170,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Physics Software Engineer, and why are they important?

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.

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 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.

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 popular job titles related to Physics Software Engineer jobs in California? For Physics Software Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Physics Software Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Physics Software Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Physics Software Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Physics Software Engineer job openings:
Physics Software Engineer jobs near you

Simulation Software Engineer

K2 Space Corporation

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:
K2 Space Corporation is building the largest and highest-power satellites ever flown, aiming to unlock unprecedented performance levels across various orbits. The Simulation Software Engineer will be responsible for simulating and verifying software for satellite operations, contributing to the design and testing of spacecraft systems.
Responsibilities:
• Create and maintain simulation software infrastructure for our 20kW+ spacecraft
• Develop physics-based software models of spacecraft subsystems, including propulsion, attitude control, power, and communications systems.
• Perform analyses of constellation capabilities and performance to support business and engineering decisions, including network coverage and beam planning.
• Create and utilize robust tools to allow for rapid deployment of quality code.
• Perform data analysis and anomaly investigation to identify and resolve on-orbit problems.
• Support integration and testing of spacecraft subsystems.
Qualifications:
Required:
• Bachelor's degree in physics, aerospace/mechanical/electrical engineering, computer science, math, or a STEM field or 3+ years of professional experience in software engineering or relevant professions
• Development experience in Rust, C++, or similar compiled language
• Experience using scientific Python (NumPy, SciPy, etc.), Julia, MATLAB, or similar
• Coursework or experience in numerical methods, ordinary differential equations, and mechanics
Preferred:
• 3+ years of professional experience in software engineering
• Master’s or PhD in physics, aerospace engineering, or a STEM field
• Experience working in Rust production environments
• Experience defining and creating simulation systems
• Experience with Monte Carlo simulations and probability/statistics
• Experience with linear algebra, controls, and/or orbital mechanics
• Basic knowledge of electronics, Linux, and computer architecture
• Experience with space communication modeling (RF, ground stations)
• Experience with continuous integration and continuous delivery systems
Company:
Making previously impossible missions possible Founded in 2022, the company is headquartered in Torrance, USA, with a team of 51-200 employees. The company is currently Growth Stage.

About K2 Space

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles, CA, US

Year founded

2022

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