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Physics Software Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

nudge

Software Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

This is a vertically integrated effort building cutting-edge hardware, software, and research ... Strong engineering / physics first principles * Experience with full-stack web development (Python ...

SpaceX

Software Engineer, C++ (Simulations)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$145K - $175K/yr

Thorough knowledge of classical physics and math (algebra, calculus, Euclidean geometry) * Strong ... Software Engineer/Level I: $125,000.00 - $150,000.00/per year Software Engineer/Level II: $145,000 ...

Oklo

Software Engineer

Santa Clara, CA

$110K - $155K/yr

You'll leverage your software skills alongside nuclear engineers to model, simulate, design, and ... Implement physics kernels to solve unanswered problems, or to improve performance of existing ...

Applied Materials

Software Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$179K - $246K/yr

Our Software Engineers are responsible for designing, prototyping, developing, and debugging ... MS+ in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Biomedical Engineering, Optical Engineering, Computer ...

Oklo

Software Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site +1

$110K - $155K/yr

You'll leverage your software skills alongside nuclear engineers to model, simulate, design, and ... Implement physics kernels to solve unanswered problems, or to improve performance of existing ...

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Showing results 41-60

All JobsPhysics Software Engineer JobsPhysics Software Engineer Jobs in California

Physics Software Engineer information

See California salary details

$62.7K

$145.6K

$202.8K

How much do physics software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 31, 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 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, 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.

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 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
Infographic showing various Physics Software Engineer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $145,592 per year, or $70 per hour.

Software Engineer, Simulations (Application Software)

SpaceX

Hawthorne, CA • On-site

$145K - $175K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago

SpaceX rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 147 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 71 rated aerospace companies

Job description

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.
SOFTWARE ENGINEER, SIMULATIONS (APPLICATION SOFTWARE)
As a Software Engineer on the Simulations team, you will design, develop, and test our in-house simulation software supporting all SpaceX flight systems. You will program the core simulation infrastructure and collaborate on the building of models of fluids, electronics, and multi-body physics systems. This is a high impact role where you will work across the engineering groups to build high fidelity simulations used to develop cutting-edge software and hardware. Our simulation software is critical to current and future mission successes including Falcon, Falcon Heavy, Dragon, Starlink, and Starship. SpaceX is looking for smart, motivated software engineers who enjoy taking on complex challenges, work well in dynamic environments and care about software best practices.
Help us build world class software that is critical to SpaceX mission to Mars.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Develop and maintain the high-fidelity real-time simulation software used for all vehicles
  • Develop prototypes to prove out key design concepts and quantify technical constraints
  • Maintain the highest standards of excellence, never settle for the status quo
  • Improve reliability and performance of simulation software
  • Work with simulation software users to develop new features and improve user experiences

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, math, or STEM discipline; OR 2+ years of professional experience in software development in lieu of a degree
  • 1+ years development experience in C++

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
  • Strong software design and development skills in C++
  • Understanding of distributed computing systems, networking protocols, memory management, and CPU scheduling
  • Thorough knowledge of classical physics and math (algebra, calculus, Euclidean geometry)
  • Strong skills in debugging, performance optimization and unit testing
  • Creative approach to problem solving
  • Experience with open source C++ simulators such as ROS2 and Gazebo
  • Ability to work effectively in a dynamic environment with changing needs and requirements
  • Ability to work independently and in a team, take initiative, and communicate effectively

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Willing to work extended hours and weekends when needed

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
Pay Range:
Software Engineer/Level I: $125,000.00 - $150,000.00/per year
Software Engineer/Level II: $145,000.00 - $175,000.00/per year
Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.
Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock, stock options, or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short & long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation & will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees accrue paid sick leave pursuant to Company policy which satisfies or exceeds the accrual, carryover, and use requirements of the law.
ITAR REQUIREMENTS:
    Learn more about the ITAR here.

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.
Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceX's Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to

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About SpaceX

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Aerospace product and parts manufacturing, data services, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and satellite telecommunications

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hawthorne, CA, US

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