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Physics Startup Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Radiant

Nuclear Engineer, Core Physics

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$106K - $146K/yr

About Radiant Radiant is an El Segundo, CA-based startup building the world's first mass-produced ... About the Role Radiant is a seeking a Nuclear Engineer, Core Physics responsible for designing and ...

UniversalAGI

AI Product Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

Competitive Salary + Equity Who We Are UniversalAGI is building OpenAI for Physics. AI startup based in San Francisco and backed by Elad Gil (#1 Solo VC), Eric Schmidt (former Google CEO), Prith ...

Elve Inc

Internship: General Application

Davis, CA

$25 - $50/hr

Physics or Applied Physics * Chemistry * Materials Science/Engineering * Supply Chain * Manufacturing Engineering * Industrial Design * Business * Startup go to market strategy * Product management

Elve Inc

Internship: General Application

Davis, CA · On-site

$25 - $50/hr

Physics or Applied Physics * Chemistry * Materials Science/Engineering * Supply Chain * Manufacturing Engineering * Industrial Design * Business * Startup go to market strategy * Product management

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All JobsPhysics Startup JobsPhysics Startup Jobs in California

Physics Startup information

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How much do physics startup jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for physics startup in California is $19.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.36 and $25.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Physics Startup vs Physics Research Scientist?

AspectPhysics StartupPhysics Research Scientist
Required CredentialsTypically requires a Bachelor's or Master's in Physics or related field; some roles may prefer PhDUsually requires a PhD in Physics or a closely related discipline
Work EnvironmentFast-paced, entrepreneurial, often in office or lab settings, with a focus on product development or innovationAcademic or institutional labs, research centers, with focus on experiments and theoretical work
Employer & Industry UsageStartups, tech companies, R&D firms focusing on new technologies or applicationsUniversities, government labs, research institutions

Physics startups focus on applying physics principles to develop new products or technologies in a dynamic environment, often requiring entrepreneurial skills. Physics research scientists primarily conduct experiments and theoretical research in academic or institutional settings. Both roles require strong physics backgrounds but differ in work environment and objectives.

What are some typical challenges faced when working at a physics startup, and how can I prepare for them?

Working at a physics startup often involves navigating rapid changes, limited resources, and a need for creative problem-solving. You'll likely be required to wear multiple hats, adapt quickly, and contribute outside your core area of expertise. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as teams are typically small and highly collaborative. Preparing by developing flexibility, strong project management skills, and a proactive attitude will help you thrive in this dynamic environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive at a physics startup, and why are they important?

To thrive at a physics startup, you need a strong background in physics or engineering, problem-solving abilities, and preferably an advanced degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with simulation software, lab instrumentation, and data analysis tools—as well as experience with prototyping and product development—are often essential. Initiative, adaptability, and strong collaboration skills help individuals excel in the dynamic and fast-paced environment of a startup. These skills enable innovative solutions, efficient progress, and effective teamwork, which are crucial for the success and growth of a physics-focused startup.

What is a physics startup?

A physics startup is a company that leverages advancements in physics to develop new technologies, products, or services. These startups often focus on innovative solutions in areas like quantum computing, advanced materials, medical devices, or energy. Physics startups typically emerge from academic research or collaborations and aim to commercialize scientific breakthroughs. They play a crucial role in bringing cutting-edge physics research to market, driving technological progress and economic growth.
What are popular job titles related to Physics Startup jobs in California? For Physics Startup jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Physics Startup jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Physics Startup jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Physics Startup jobs? Cities in California with the most Physics Startup job openings:
Physics Startup jobs near you
Infographic showing various Physics Startup job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 16% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,184 per year, or $19.8 per hour.
Quantum Theorist, Atomic Physics Focus

Quantum Theorist, Atomic Physics Focus

Atom Computing

Berkeley, CA

$160K - $185K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

At Atom Computing, we build quantum computers using arrays of optically trapped neutral atoms that will empower customers to achieve unprecedented computational breakthroughs. Join a talented team of scientists, engineers, and business professionals to advance the state-of-the-art in quantum computing.

Atom Computing is seeking a Quantum Theorist to contribute to a variety of projects that help with the development of neutral atom quantum computing. In this role, you'll be working directly with other theorists and experimentalists to model our quantum computers, improve calibration routines, characterize machine performance, and propose methods for their overall advancement. You'll work within an expert team of atomic physics and quantum error correction theorists that shapes future system design and supports experimental progress. 

This role reports to the Quantum Theory Manager within Atom Computing's Applications & Theory department. Applications will be considered for our Berkeley, CA or Boulder, CO office.

Job Responsibilities
  • Conduct independent and/or collaborative theoretical and computational projects that drive the understanding and development of neutral atom quantum computers.
  • Contribute to the development and operation of a variety of atomic physics simulations and translate them into high-quality, maintainable software solutions.
  • Collaborate with Experimentalists, Quantum Engineers, Error Correction Theorists, and AMO Theorists to model experimental results, develop noise models for quantum hardware, and contribute to the design of neutral-atom quantum computers.
  • Write clean, well-tested, and documented code in multiple languages (preferrably Python, Julia, or C++).
Experience & Education

  • PhD in Physics, Mathematics, Engineering, Computer Science or a related field.

Qualifications
  • Deep understanding of atomic, molecular and optical physics. Experience working with or modeling of Rydberg atoms is particularly appreciated.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills, with published results within their field of research.
  • Technical expertise spanning atomic structure, quantum optics, and qubit control, e.g. using QutiP, QuantumOptics.jl, or equivalent.
  • Familiarity with modern software development practices: version control, unit testing, continuous integration, and documentation.
  • Temperamentally suited to work at a fast-growing startup: self-motivated, humble, driven, collaborative, with a high tolerance for ambiguity and uncertainty.

Atom Computing provides a wide variety of perks and benefits, including fully paid medical, dental, and vision insurance for our employees and their dependents. Additionally, unlimited paid time off, 401K company matching, short- and long-term disability, FSA, dependent care benefits, and life insurance.  We also offer drinks, snacks, and catered team lunches in our offices, every day!

The base salary range for this position is between $160,000 - $185,000, commensurate with experience. In addition to salary, we offer an annual bonus and equity in the company.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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