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Plasma Physicist Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

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Plasma Physicist information

See Michigan salary details

$34.4K

$82.6K

$197.4K

How much do plasma physicist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for plasma physicist in Michigan is $82,631.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,400.00 and $97,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a plasma physicist?

A Plasma Physicist studies ionized gases, known as plasmas, which are found in stars, fusion reactors, and various industrial applications. They conduct experiments, develop simulations, and apply theoretical models to understand plasma behavior. Their work is essential in advancing fusion energy, space physics, and technologies like plasma thrusters and semiconductor manufacturing. Plasma Physicists often work in research institutions, government labs, or private industry.

What kinds of research projects or experiments do plasma physicists typically work on?

Plasma Physicists commonly engage in experimental and theoretical research related to controlled fusion, space plasma phenomena, or plasma applications in material processing and medicine. Their work often involves designing and conducting experiments using advanced equipment such as magnetic confinement devices, lasers, or high-voltage systems. Collaboration with engineers, computational scientists, and other physicists is typical to analyze data and optimize experimental setups. Plasma Physicists also frequently present findings at conferences and publish in scientific journals, contributing to ongoing advancements in the field.

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

To thrive as a Plasma Physicist, you need a strong background in physics, mathematics, and computational modeling, typically supported by a PhD in plasma physics or a related field. Familiarity with specialized simulation software, diagnostic instrumentation, and laboratory equipment such as tokamaks or plasma reactors is common. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective scientific communication are essential soft skills for success. Together, these skills enable Plasma Physicists to conduct complex experiments, collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, and contribute to advancements in research and technology.

How much do plasma physicists make?

Plasma physicists typically earn a median annual salary of around $100,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $70,000 to over $150,000 depending on experience, education, and location. Those working in research, government labs, or private industry with advanced skills and certifications tend to earn higher salaries.

What does a plasma physicist do?

A plasma physicist studies the properties and behavior of plasma, the fourth state of matter, often using advanced laboratory equipment and computer models. They conduct experiments, analyze data, and develop theories related to plasma phenomena, which are important in fields like fusion energy, space science, and industrial applications.

What are popular job titles related to Plasma Physicist jobs in Michigan?

For Plasma Physicist jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Plasma Physicist jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Plasma Physicist jobs in Michigan are:

Plasma Physicist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plasma Physicist job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $82,631 per year, or $39.7 per hour.

Electric Propulsion Engineer

ORBION SPACE TECHNOLOGY INC

Houghton, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Description

Orbion is seeking an Electric Propulsion Engineer to assist in the development and test of new and existing satellite propulsion systems. The engineer will work with Orbion's world-class team of EP experts to design and prototype new or modified EP subsystems to improve existing product performance, as well as extend company offerings. The engineer will use their understanding of applicable plasma physics, mechanical and thermal engineering principles, and material properties, and system engineering practices to create and evaluate novel designs or troubleshoot issues. Additionally, the engineer will build and execute development and production tests and test systems for electric propulsion devices. These test systems will range from one-off development tests to fully-automated production tests. 


Exact position, title, and salary will be commensurate with experience. Multiple positions may be available. 


RESPONSIBILITIES:  

  • Create, maintain, and execute product and development roadmaps propulsion systems 
  • Develop and manage system requirements 
  • Lead and oversee technical investigations, delta-qualification efforts, continuous improvement activities, and new feature design efforts 
  • Design and execute development tests 
  • Delegate, lead, and manage junior engineers in similar tasks 
  • Collect and report on collected test data 
  • Perform other duties as assigned 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: 

  • Must meet definition of a US Person 
  • Ph.D.. in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Physics or a similar field with an Electric  Propulsion focus or equivalent experience  
  • 5 or more years' of experience with space hardware 
  • Strong hands-on space hardware development experience  
  • Excellent communication skills, technical depth, breadth, and passion to work effectively with cross functional (electrical, mechanical, software, system, test) production and development teams  

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:  

  • Capable team and/or project manager 
  • 2 or more years' experience with flight hardware 
  • Experience with requirements management 
  • Experience with systems engineering and integration of electric propulsion systems 
  • Experience with on-orbit operations of electric propulsion systems 
  • Experience with flight qualification of propulsion systems 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: 

  • Prolonged periods of standing and at times, sitting at a desk and working on a computer 
  • Must be able to lift up to 40lbs at times  
  • Manual dexterity to evaluate, install, and modify equipment       

COMPENSATION/BENEFITS: Enjoy a very competitive starting salary based on your knowledge and experience. In addition to the excitement of making monumental changes to the aerospace industry, employees enjoy a flexible work schedule, company paid health insurance, dental, vision, prescription drug coverage, paid time off (vacation, paid holidays, sick days), contribution matching retirement plan, and short-term disability coverage. The position is full time and located in Houghton, MI. Relocation assistance is available.


All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by state or local law.

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