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Physics Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

General Atomics

Health Physics Manager V

San Diego, CA · On-site

$140K - $257K/yr

We have an exciting opportunity for a Health Physics Director! This position is responsible for directing all activities related to Health Physics ensuring adherence to Company policy as well as ...

Canyons School District

$89.24/hr

Physics Opening Date: 10/05/2023 Description We are now accepting applications for the Adjunct Instructor Applicant Pool. Adjunct pools are open on a fiscal year basis for continuous recruitment for ...

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$5

$19

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How much do physics jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for physics 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 do physicists do?

Physicists study the fundamental principles that govern the behavior of the universe, such as matter, energy, space, and time. They conduct experiments, analyze data, and develop theories to explain natural phenomena. Physicists can work in academia, research institutions, government agencies, or industries like technology and healthcare. Their work helps advance scientific understanding and leads to innovations in areas like electronics, energy, and medical technology.

What are different jobs you can get with a physics degree?

There are numerous jobs you can get with a physics degree. With an advanced degree like a doctorate you can pursue a career in research or engineering, but even with a bachelor’s degree you can become a physics teachers at elementary and secondary levels, or you could find work in fields as diverse as finance and computer science. If you possess a talent for language, you could even find work as a technical writer, or a journalist focused on scientific topics.

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

To thrive as a Physicist, you need a solid background in mathematics, analytical problem-solving, and a relevant degree (typically a Ph.D. for research roles). Familiarity with scientific computing software (such as MATLAB or Python), laboratory equipment, and data analysis tools is common. Critical thinking, perseverance, and effective communication are vital soft skills for collaborating on complex research and sharing findings. These competencies ensure accurate experimentation, innovative discoveries, and the ability to work effectively within scientific teams.

What are some typical collaborative projects that physicists work on within interdisciplinary teams?

Physicists often collaborate with professionals from engineering, computer science, and other scientific fields on projects such as developing new medical imaging technologies, advancing renewable energy solutions, or simulating complex systems. These interdisciplinary teams allow physicists to apply their analytical and problem-solving skills to real-world challenges, benefit from diverse perspectives, and contribute to innovative breakthroughs. Effective communication and adaptability are important, as project goals and methodologies may differ from traditional physics research.

What is the difference between Physics vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectPhysicsMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in Physics, often with research experienceBachelor's or higher in Mechanical Engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, government agenciesManufacturing, design firms, industrial settings
Industry UsageResearch, academia, technology developmentProduct design, manufacturing, systems engineering
Common Search/ComparisonPhysics vs Mechanical Engineer

Physics focuses on understanding fundamental principles of matter and energy, often in research or academic settings. Mechanical engineering emphasizes designing and manufacturing mechanical systems, with applications in industry. While both fields require strong analytical skills, their work environments and career paths differ significantly.

Are physicists highly paid?

Physicists' salaries vary depending on experience, education, and industry, but generally they earn competitive wages. According to industry data, median annual salaries for physicists range from around $100,000 to over $130,000, with those in research, engineering, or private sector roles often earning more. Advanced degrees and specialized skills can lead to higher compensation.

What jobs can you do with physics?

Physics graduates can pursue careers as physicists, research scientists, engineers, data analysts, or technical consultants. These roles often require strong analytical skills, proficiency with laboratory equipment or simulation software, and may involve working in academia, industry, or government laboratories.

What kind of jobs can I get with physics?

Physics graduates can pursue careers as physicists, research scientists, data analysts, engineers, or technical consultants. These roles often require strong analytical skills, proficiency with scientific tools and programming, and sometimes advanced degrees or certifications. Opportunities exist in academia, industry, government labs, and technology sectors.
More about Physics jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Physics jobs in California?

The most popular types of Physics jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Physics jobs in California?

For Physics jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Physics jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Physics jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Physics jobs?

Cities in California with the most Physics job openings:

Physics jobs near you
Infographic showing various Physics job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 22% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,184 per year, or $19.8 per hour.

Radiation Physics Support

Bay Systems Consulting Inc

Berkeley, CA • On-site

$95/hr

Other

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Radiation Physics Support
Location: Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL)
Work Arrangement: Hybrid
Contract: 1 Year
Pay Rate: $95/hour + Benefits
Position Overview
Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory is seeking a Radiation Physics Support professional to provide radiation physics and radiation protection expertise in support of the Advanced Light Source Upgrade (ALS-U) Project.
This role will provide technical support throughout the design, procurement, fabrication, installation, testing, commissioning, and operational readiness of accelerator, beamline, and associated facility systems. The successful candidate will perform independent technical evaluations, engineering analyses, radiation protection assessments, and technical reviews to help ensure work is performed safely, efficiently, and in compliance with applicable Department of Energy (DOE), LBNL, and ALS-U Project requirements.
The position offers the opportunity to work closely with engineering, safety, quality, procurement, systems engineering, and project teams on a major scientific infrastructure project.
Key Responsibilities
Radiation Protection Engineering
  • Perform radiation shielding evaluations and radiation transport analyses.
  • Conduct ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) evaluations.
  • Participate in radiation protection design reviews.
  • Provide technical recommendations supporting engineering and design decisions.
  • Evaluate radiological hazards associated with accelerator systems and experimental equipment.
Accelerator Radiation Safety
  • Provide technical consultation related to accelerator radiation safety throughout the project lifecycle.
  • Support safety basis documentation and related technical evaluations.
  • Review accelerator modifications for potential radiation safety impacts.
  • Evaluate proposed design and configuration changes for radiological implications.
  • Support configuration management activities affecting radiation safety.
Technical & Engineering Reviews
  • Review engineering drawings, specifications, and design packages.
  • Evaluate procurement documentation and installation plans.
  • Review testing, operating, and readiness procedures.
  • Participate in design, engineering, readiness, and technical reviews.
  • Provide technical comments and recommendations based on applicable radiation protection practices and project requirements.
Radiological Hazard Assessments
  • Identify and evaluate radiological hazards associated with project activities.
  • Assess potential worker exposures.
  • Review work planning and radiological control documentation.
  • Recommend appropriate engineering and administrative controls.
  • Support ALARA planning and implementation.
Documentation & Analysis
Prepare, review, and revise radiation protection and engineering documentation, including:
  • Technical memoranda and reports
  • Engineering calculations
  • Radiation shielding calculations
  • Radiation transport analyses
  • ALARA evaluations
  • Radiological hazard assessments
  • Radiation protection procedures
  • Technical basis documents
  • Design review comments
  • Compliance assessments
  • Engineering recommendations
  • Lessons learned and other project documentation
Field & Project Support
  • Provide field support during installation, testing, commissioning, and operational readiness activities.
  • Participate in facility and system walkdowns.
  • Evaluate changing field conditions and recommend safe approaches to resolve technical issues.
  • Coordinate with project personnel to support safe and efficient execution of work.
  • Participate in technical working meetings, planning meetings, risk discussions, design reviews, readiness reviews, and interface coordination meetings.
Regulatory & DOE Support
  • Support compliance with applicable federal, DOE, LBNL, and ALS-U Project requirements.
  • Perform regulatory and compliance assessments.
  • Review documentation and support responses to review comments.
  • Provide recommendations related to corrective actions.
  • Support DOE reviews and independent assessments, including presentations, review preparation, action-item resolution, and documentation updates.
Collaboration
The Radiation Physics Support professional will work closely with the ALS-U Project Office, Engineering, Quality Assurance, Procurement, Environment, Health & Safety (EH&S), Systems Engineering, and other project stakeholders to complete assigned technical activities and deliverables.
Assignments will be performed on an as-needed basis and may vary depending on project priorities and lifecycle requirements.
Typical Deliverables
Depending on assigned work, deliverables may include:
  • Radiation shielding calculations and analyses
  • Radiation transport analyses
  • ALARA evaluations
  • Radiological hazard assessments
  • Technical memoranda and reports
  • Engineering recommendations
  • Design and technical review comments
  • Procedures and technical basis documents
  • Compliance assessments
  • Readiness review documentation
  • Corrective action recommendations
  • Technical presentations and meeting support
  • Monthly status reports, when requested

The ideal candidate will bring strong technical knowledge of radiation physics, radiation protection, accelerator safety, radiological hazard assessment, and/or radiation protection engineering, along with the ability to communicate effectively with multidisciplinary engineering and project teams.
Experience working in a DOE national laboratory, accelerator facility, research facility, or similarly regulated technical environment is highly valuable. The candidate should be comfortable working independently, reviewing complex technical information, developing sound engineering recommendations, and providing both analytical and field-based support.

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