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Physics Software Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

AeroVironment

Software Engineer

Jessup, MD · On-site

$170K - $214K/yr

Worker Type Regular Summary The Software Engineer will play a critical role in designing, deploying ... Founded in 1971 by celebrated physicist and engineer, Dr. Paul MacCready, we've been at the leading ...

AeroVironment, Inc.

Software Engineer

Jessup, MD · On-site

$170K - $214K/yr

Worker Type Regular Summary The Software Engineer will play a critical role in designing, deploying ... Founded in 1971 by celebrated physicist and engineer, Dr. Paul MacCready, we've been at the leading ...

Metron

Autonomous Systems Software Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$180K - $213K/yr

We are seeking an experienced Software Engineer to design and develop algorithms, simulations, and ... Advanced degree in computer science, mathematics, physics, applied math, or related field

AeroVironment

Software Engineer

Jessup, MD · On-site

$150K - $190K/yr

Utilize software development and software design methodologies appropriate to the development ... Founded in 1971 by celebrated physicist and engineer, Dr. Paul MacCready, we've been at the leading ...

AeroVironment, Inc.

Software Engineer

Jessup, MD · On-site

$150K - $190K/yr

Utilize software development and software design methodologies appropriate to the development ... Founded in 1971 by celebrated physicist and engineer, Dr. Paul MacCready, we've been at the leading ...

AeroVironment, Inc.

Senior Software Engineer

Jessup, MD · On-site

$195K - $222K/yr

Worker Type Regular Job Summary The primary role of the Senior Software Engineer is to design ... Founded in 1971 by celebrated physicist and engineer, Dr. Paul MacCready, we've been at the leading ...

AeroVironment

Senior Software Engineer

Jessup, MD

$195K - $222K/yr

Worker Type Regular Job Summary The primary role of the Senior Software Engineer is to design ... Founded in 1971 by celebrated physicist and engineer, Dr. Paul MacCready, we've been at the leading ...

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All JobsPhysics Software Engineer JobsPhysics Software Engineer Jobs in Washington

Physics Software Engineer information

See Washington salary details

$71.9K

$167.1K

$232.7K

How much do physics software engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for physics software engineer in Washington is $167,085.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $135,900.00 and $195,900.00 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 Washington? For Physics Software Engineer jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Physics Software Engineer jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Physics Software Engineer jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Physics Software Engineer jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Physics Software Engineer job openings:
Physics Software Engineer jobs near you
Autonomy Test and Evaluation Software Engineer

Autonomy Test and Evaluation Software Engineer

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory

Laurel, MD • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory rating

9.9

Company rating: 9.9 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

1st of 58 rated research

Job description

Description
Do you enjoy building advanced simulation and analysis tools to evaluate sophisticated autonomous systems?
Are you interested in shaping how the Navy tests, validates, and deploys autonomous maritime platforms?
If so, we would love for you to join our team at APL! We are seeking a motivated Autonomy Test and Evaluation Tools Software Engineer to join the Ocean Systems and Engineering Group. In this role, you will contribute to the development of innovative test and evaluation software solutions. You will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams in an agile, rapid prototyping environment to build the next generation of simulation-based test tools for autonomous platforms.
As an Autonomy Test and Evaluation Tools Software Engineer, you will...
  • Develop end-to-end software tools for simulation-based test and evaluation (T&E) of autonomous systems, including requirements definition, architecture, implementation, and validation.
  • Design and build high-fidelity simulation environments to evaluate autonomy algorithms under nominal and off-nominal conditions.
  • Develop approaches to verify and validate decision-making systems, including edge cases and emergent behaviors.
  • Apply data science, statistics, and machine learning techniques to analyze system performance and develop new evaluation methods.
  • Plan and support field experiments, integrating real-world data with simulation-based analysis.
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams in an agile, rapid prototyping environment.

Qualifications
You meet our minimum requirements for the job if you...
  • Have a BS in Software Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical field such as Robotics, Physics, or Mathematics.
  • Have 5+ years of professional experience in software development (Python and/or C++).
  • Have experience with full-lifecycle software development.
  • Have experience or interest in autonomous systems, robotics, simulation, or test and evaluation.
  • Have experience developing or working with simulation environments or modeling and simulation (M&S) tools.
  • Bring strong organizational and planning skills, with a track record of contributing effectively in team environments.
  • Communicate clearly in both written and verbal formats.
  • Are able to obtain an interim Secret-level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a Top Secret clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to Top Secret classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...
  • Have an MS or PhD in Software Engineering, Computer Science, Robotics, or a related technical field.
  • Have experience developing or evaluating autonomous systems, including decision-making, planning, or behavior-based autonomy.
  • Have experience in simulation-based test and evaluation or M&S environments.
  • Have experience with verification and validation (V&V) of complex or safety-critical systems.
  • Have experience developing machine learning approaches such as reinforcement learning, imitation learning, or online/offline learning.
  • Have experience integrating autonomy software into simulation frameworks (e.g., ROS, Gazebo, Unity, or similar environments).
  • Have supported or led field testing of autonomous systems.
  • Hold an active Top Secret security clearance.

About Us
Why Work at APL?
The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.
At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accessibility@jhuapl.edu.
The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Minimum Rate
$100,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$245,000 Annually

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