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Plasma Physics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Thea Energy

Divertor Plasma Physicist

Kearny, NJ

$120K - $170K/yr

Thea Energy is leveraging recent breakthroughs in stellarator physics and engineering to create a ... We are seeking a highly motivated plasma physicist to join our team, focusing on the analysis ...

Thea Energy

Divertor Plasma Physicist

Kearny, NJ · On-site

$120K - $170K/yr

Thea Energy is leveraging recent breakthroughs in stellarator physics and engineering to create a ... We are seeking a highly motivated plasma physicist to join our team, focusing on the analysis ...

Thea Energy

Computational Plasma Physicist

Kearny, NJ · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

Thea Energy is leveraging recent breakthroughs in stellarator physics and engineering to create a ... We are seeking highly motivated Computational Plasma Physicists to join our team, focusing on ...

Thea Energy

Computational Plasma Physicist

Kearny, NJ · On-site

$120K - $140K/yr

Thea Energy is leveraging recent breakthroughs in stellarator physics and engineering to create a ... We are seeking highly motivated Computational Plasma Physicists to join our team, focusing on ...

TAE

Experimental Plasma Physicist

Foothill Ranch, CA · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

The successful candidate will join the Radiation and Energetic Particle Physics Team in the Applied Plasma Physics Division under the guidance of the Lead Scientist. * Develop and refine diagnostic ...

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How much do plasma physics jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for plasma physics in the United States is $30.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.08 and $38.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Plasma Physics vs Nuclear Physics?

AspectPlasma PhysicsNuclear Physics
Required CredentialsPhysics degree, specialized training in plasma phenomenaPhysics or nuclear engineering degree, nuclear safety certifications
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, fusion reactors, space plasma studiesNuclear power plants, research reactors, nuclear laboratories
Industry UsageFusion energy, space science, plasma technologyNuclear energy, medical imaging, nuclear safety

Plasma Physics focuses on the behavior of ionized gases in various environments, often related to fusion energy and space science. Nuclear Physics studies atomic nuclei and nuclear reactions, primarily in energy production and medical applications. While both fields involve advanced physics and laboratory work, their applications and certifications differ significantly.

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 solid background in physics and mathematics, typically supported by an advanced degree (PhD) in physics or a related discipline. Expertise with simulation software, diagnostic instruments, and familiarity with laboratory safety protocols are standard technical requirements. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and collaborative communication are vital soft skills for contributing to interdisciplinary research teams. These capabilities are essential for advancing plasma research, solving complex problems, and driving innovations in energy, space, and technology applications.

What are plasma physicists?

Plasma physicists are scientists who study plasma, which is often referred to as the fourth state of matter. They research the behavior, properties, and applications of plasma in a variety of settings, from controlled fusion reactors to space and astrophysical environments. Their work helps advance technologies such as fusion energy, space propulsion, and materials processing. Plasma physicists often collaborate with engineers and other scientists to solve complex scientific and technical problems.

What are some common challenges faced by plasma physicists when working in multidisciplinary teams?

Plasma physicists often collaborate with engineers, computational scientists, and material scientists on complex research projects or large-scale experiments. A common challenge is effectively communicating highly specialized plasma concepts to team members from different backgrounds, ensuring everyone understands the scientific goals and technical constraints. Navigating differing priorities and integrating diverse expertise can require strong communication and project management skills. However, overcoming these challenges leads to innovative solutions and a richer research environment.

What Are Plasma Physics Jobs?

Plasma physics jobs focus on the study and practical applications of plasma. In this field, you may use plasma diagnostic techniques, help gather data through experiments, or engineer products to make use of the unique properties of plasma. Some plasma physics jobs are indirect, such as when companies manage and maintain superconducting magnetic coils to support plasma experiments. You can find many plasma physics jobs at research institutions and industrial facilities, particularly in the aerospace and electronics industries. Plasma is also a major feature of space travel, so companies that operate either in the upper atmosphere or beyond the atmosphere often offer plasma physics jobs as well.

More about Plasma Physics jobs
What cities are hiring for Plasma Physics jobs? Cities with the most Plasma Physics job openings:
What states have the most Plasma Physics jobs? States with the most job openings for Plasma Physics jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Plasma Physics jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Plasma Physics jobs are:
Plasma Physics jobs near you
Infographic showing various Plasma Physics job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, and 23% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,559 per year, or $30.1 per hour.

Divertor Plasma Physicist

Thea Energy

Kearny, NJ

$120K - $170K/yr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

About Thea Energy:  
 
Thea Energy is leveraging recent breakthroughs in stellarator physics and engineering to create a faster and simpler approach to commercializing fusion energy. The company is reinventing the stellarator using computer-controlled arrays of planar coils thereby replacing the intricate, complex modular magnets required in all other stellarator architectures. Thea Energy is on a mission to create a limitless source of zero emission energy for a sustainable future.  
 
Position Overview:

We are seeking a highly motivated plasma physicist to join our team, focusing on the analysis, simulation, and optimization of the divertor region of a stellarator magnetic field. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in plasma physics, with a particular emphasis on plasma fluid models, neutral particle models, and/or atomic processes within plasmas. Experience with the boundary of fusion devices is a plus. You will work on a dynamic team, contributing to cutting-edge research and development in Thea Energy’s stellarator systems.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Develop and implement algorithms for the simulation of fluid plasmas within complex magnetic edge topologies.
  • Conduct simulations and analyses of collisional edge plasma in stellarators, coupled with neutral-particle and atomic physics models.
  • Collaborate with cross-disciplinary teams to design stellarator divertor systems.
  • Perform data analysis, model validation, and provide insights into the physical mechanisms governing plasma behavior.
  • Prepare technical reports, presentations, and publications based on design, optimization, and simulation results.
  • Stay up to date with the latest advancements in computational plasma physics, fusion energy, and optimization techniques.
Required Experience & Skillsets:

Qualifications:

  • PhD in Plasma Physics, Computational Physics, Applied Physics, or a related field, or bachelor’s degree in a relevant field with 5+ years of experience or master’s degree in relevant field with 2+ years of experience.
  • Strong knowledge of computational plasma physics and numerical simulations.
  • Experience with the boundary of fusion devices, especially stellarators or tokamaks, is a plus.
  • Proficiency in programming languages commonly used in scientific computing (e.g. Python, Fortran, C++, and MATLAB).
  • Familiarity with simulation tools used in plasma physics research.

Preferred Skills:

  • Experience with edge plasma models such as FLARE, DESC, SOLPS, UEDGE, and EMC3-EIRENE.
  • Experience working on an integrated plasma physics experimental device, ideally a stellarator or tokamak.
  • Understanding of plasma fluid models and neutral particle models.
  • Familiarity with Plasma-Material Interactions.
  • Experience in high-performance computing (HPC) environments..

Personal Attributes:

  • Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently and manage projects.
  • Strong attention to detail and a passion for advancing the field of fusion energy research.
  • Willingness to collaborate with a diverse team of scientists and engineers within the company and externally.
Company Benefits:
  • Salary range $120,000 - $170,000
  • Comprehensive health benefits (e.g. medical/dental/vision)
  • Employee equity stock options
  • 20 days PTO
It’s not necessary to meet all of the skillsets outlined above. Please feel free to send us a note and tell us why you would still be a great fit for this role or Thea Energy.  
  
Diversity and Inclusion:  
Thea Energy is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a company of diverse backgrounds. By creating a diverse environment, we will bring new ideas and approaches to solving some of the world’s hardest (and most important) problems. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, family or marital status, age, disability, veteran’s status, or other characteristic protected by applicable laws and regulations.  
 

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. 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.

About Thea Energy

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Clean energy semiconductors manufacturing

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Princeton, NJ, US

Year founded

2022

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