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Physics Startup Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Bolt Graphics

R&D Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$150K - $220K/yr

Bolt Graphics is a semiconductor startup based in Sunnyvale, CA building the fastest and most ... The ideal candidate has an advanced academic background in physics, mathematics, computer ...

TRL11, Inc.

Lead Optical Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$139K - $179K/yr

Strong understanding of physics, optics materials, and/or laser systems Proficiency in optical ... Fast paced, energetic startup culture, where you'll learn a lot, have great impact, and have fun ...

TRL11, Inc.

Lead Optical Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$139K - $179K/yr

Strong understanding of physics, optics materials, and/or laser systems Proficiency in optical ... Fast paced, energetic startup culture, where you'll learn a lot, have great impact, and have fun ...

Maritime Fusion

R&D Technician

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$100K - $160K/yr

... physics basis of our HTS tokamak to decarbonize global shipping. Since participating in the world's leading startup accelerator, Y Combinator, we've moved quickly to plot the most pragmatic path to ...

TRL11, Inc.

Lead Optical Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$138K - $179K/yr

Strong understanding of physics, optics materials, and/or laser systems Proficiency in optical ... Fast paced, energetic startup culture, where you'll learn a lot, have great impact, and have fun ...

Voltai, Inc

Software Engineer

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

... physics programs. * Willingness to work hard, move fast and grow quickly in a rapidly changing ... Experience as an early engineer at a hyper-growth startup.

Voltai

Software Engineer

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

... physics programs. * Willingness to work hard, move fast and grow quickly in a rapidly changing ... Experience as an early engineer at a hyper-growth startup.

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Physics Startup information

See California salary details

$5

$19

$25

How much do physics startup jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, and 67% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,184 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

R&D Engineer

Bolt Graphics

Sunnyvale, CA • On-site

$150K - $220K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Bolt Graphics is a semiconductor startup based in Sunnyvale, CA building the fastest and most efficient graphics processors. We pride ourselves on our first principles approach to solving problems. We are energized by our mission to reduce the barrier of entry for content creation and consumption. Our goal is to enable everyone to easily create, simulate and consume immersive experiences as vividly as they can imagine them.
Our Values
  • Be Fearless: Unmute yourself. Test boundaries and get proven right.
  • Remain Adaptable: Stay comfortable in a continuously changing world. If you're wrong, concede and move on.
  • Educate Your Ego: Selflessly collaborate towards our shared purpose.

About the role:
We're looking for highly skilled R&D Engineers with expertise in algorithms, mathematical modeling, and scientific computing. The R&D Engineer will perform in-depth research on high-performance computing algorithms, evaluate competitive approaches, and help translate complex mathematical concepts into computationally efficient models.
This role requires close collaboration with hardware architects and leadership to define proof-of-concept features, provide benchmarking insights, and guide system requirements with a focus on performance. The ideal candidate has an advanced academic background in physics, mathematics, computer engineering, computer science, or a related field, with demonstrated experience in algorithms, modeling of physical phenomena, and programming for scientific computing.
What you'll do:
  • Perform in-depth research and analysis on preexisting HPC algorithms.
  • Translate advanced mathematical concepts (e.g. calculus) into discrete, computationally friendly models.
  • Conduct competitive analysis (tools, algorithms, performance benchmarks) and report findings to leadership.
  • Collaborate with the Hardware Architect to define PoC features and systems requirements.
  • Provide performance estimations and benchmarking data throughout the project.

Qualifications:
  • Education/Experience: Advanced degree (Master's or PhD) in Physics, Mathematics, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field with a strong focus on algorithms and scientific computing.
  • Algorithm & Math Expertise: Proficient in advanced calculus, discrete mathematics, and modeling of physical phenomena.
  • Programming: Familiarity with Python/Julia (highly preferred)
  • Communication: Ability to clearly articulate research findings to both technical and non-technical leadership.
  • Exposure to hardware acceleration, HPC, or GPU/FPGA technologies is beneficial.
  • Startup experience
  • Government clearance is preferred

Compensation Range: $150,000-$220,000 per year (California). This range represents the anticipated base pay for this role; the final offer may vary based on qualifications, experience, and location.
Benefits:
  • Medical, Dental, & Vision - 100% covered premiums
  • Equity - Stock Options
  • 401(k) match
  • WFH Hardware

Bolt is committed to building a diverse and inclusive environment in which we recognize and value each other's differences as well as fostering a culture that promotes its core values: Professionalism, Integrity, and Respect. As an equal opportunity employer, all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, age, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

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