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Quantum Physicist Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

IB Physics Tutor

Salem, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... and quantum physics. Ability to explain IB data booklet formula usage and IA requirements while preparing students for IB Physics SL and HL examinations. * Conceptual Teaching & Problem-Solving:

IB Physics Tutor

Richmond, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... and quantum physics. Ability to explain IB data booklet formula usage and IA requirements while preparing students for IB Physics SL and HL examinations. * Conceptual Teaching & Problem-Solving:

IB Physics Tutor

Norfolk, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... and quantum physics. Ability to explain IB data booklet formula usage and IA requirements while preparing students for IB Physics SL and HL examinations. * Conceptual Teaching & Problem-Solving:

IB Physics Tutor

Fairfax, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... and quantum physics. Ability to explain IB data booklet formula usage and IA requirements while preparing students for IB Physics SL and HL examinations. * Conceptual Teaching & Problem-Solving:

IB Physics Tutor

Blacksburg, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... and quantum physics. Ability to explain IB data booklet formula usage and IA requirements while preparing students for IB Physics SL and HL examinations. * Conceptual Teaching & Problem-Solving:

IB Physics Tutor

Alexandria, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... and quantum physics. Ability to explain IB data booklet formula usage and IA requirements while preparing students for IB Physics SL and HL examinations. * Conceptual Teaching & Problem-Solving:

IB Physics Tutor

Leesburg, VA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... and quantum physics. Ability to explain IB data booklet formula usage and IA requirements while preparing students for IB Physics SL and HL examinations. * Conceptual Teaching & Problem-Solving:

... and quantum physics. Ability to explain IB data booklet formula usage and IA requirements while preparing students for IB Physics SL and HL examinations. * Conceptual Teaching & Problem-Solving:

... and quantum physics. Ability to explain IB data booklet formula usage and IA requirements while preparing students for IB Physics SL and HL examinations. * Conceptual Teaching & Problem-Solving:

Showing results 21-40

Quantum Physicist information

See Virginia salary details

$39.2K

$94K

$224.6K

How much do quantum physicist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for quantum physicist in Virginia is $93,991.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,500.00 and $111,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a quantum physicist?

A Quantum Physicist studies the fundamental principles of quantum mechanics and applies them to understand and develop new technologies. Their work involves researching quantum systems, conducting experiments, analyzing data, and developing mathematical models. Quantum Physicists contribute to cutting-edge fields like quantum computing, cryptography, and materials science. They often work in academic institutions, research labs, or technology companies.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a quantum physicist?

Quantum Physicists typically split their time between conducting theoretical research, performing experiments, analyzing data, and collaborating with other scientists. Daily tasks may include designing and running experiments, developing quantum models or simulations, publishing research results, and meeting with project teams to discuss findings. Many roles also involve mentoring junior researchers or students and applying for grant funding to support ongoing projects. The work is highly interdisciplinary, often requiring close cooperation with mathematicians, engineers, and computer scientists to tackle complex quantum challenges.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a quantum physicist?

To thrive as a Quantum Physicist, you generally need a Ph.D. in physics or a related field, with deep knowledge of quantum mechanics, mathematical modeling, and analytical problem-solving. Familiarity with advanced programming languages (such as Python or MATLAB), quantum computing platforms, and lab instrumentation is often required, along with publication experience in scientific journals. Excellent teamwork, communication, and critical thinking skills help you excel in collaborative research and complex project environments. These skills are crucial for conducting high-level research, publishing significant findings, and contributing to advancements in quantum science and technology.

How much do quantum physicists make?

Quantum physicists typically earn between $70,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Those with advanced degrees and research experience in academia or industry may earn higher salaries, especially in specialized fields or senior roles.

Is quantum physics in demand?

Quantum physicists are in increasing demand due to advancements in quantum computing, cryptography, and nanotechnology. Employers in academia, government labs, and tech industries seek professionals with strong analytical skills, expertise in quantum mechanics, and experience with specialized tools like quantum simulators and programming languages such as Python or Qiskit.

What is the work of a quantum physicist?

A quantum physicist researches the fundamental principles of quantum mechanics, studying particles and their behaviors at atomic and subatomic levels. Their work often involves developing theories, conducting experiments, and using advanced tools like quantum computers and spectrometers to explore phenomena such as superposition and entanglement.

What jobs can you get as a quantum physicist?

Quantum physicists can work in research and development roles in academia, government labs, or private industry, focusing on quantum computing, quantum communication, or materials science. They often work as research scientists, quantum engineers, or data analysts, utilizing skills in advanced mathematics, programming, and experimental techniques.

What are the most commonly searched types of Quantum Physicist jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Quantum Physicist jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Quantum Physicist jobs in Virginia?

For Quantum Physicist jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Quantum Physicist jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Quantum Physicist jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Quantum Physicist jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Quantum Physicist job openings:

Infographic showing various Quantum Physicist job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 75% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 68% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 28% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,991 per year, or $45.2 per hour.

Communications Systems Engineer (Optical/Quantum)

SAIC

Chantilly, VA • On-site, Remote

$160K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago


SAIC rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 80 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

88th of 226 rated it services


Job description

Job ID: 2615281

Location: Chantilly, VA, US

Date Posted: 2026-08-06

Category: Engineering and Sciences

Subcategory: Systems Engineer

Schedule: Full-Time

Shift: Day Job

Travel: Yes - 10% of the time

Minimum Clearance Required: TS.SCI_wPoly

Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain: None

Potential for Remote Work: ORA_ON_SITE


Description

SAIC is seeking a Communications Systems Engineer with strong optical and quantum communications engineering experience to support specialized analysis, engineering, design, and operations for Intelligence Community (IC) and Department of War (DoW) customers. We support development of next‑generation and far‑future national security systems across land, sea, air, and space domains.

We are hiring a Communications Systems Engineer to provide systems engineering and technical advisory (SETA) support to an IC Research & Development (R&D) customer developing advanced hardware, software, and architectural solutions for mission‑critical optical and quantum communication systems.
Responsibilities
• Perform technical reviews, assessments, and risk evaluations of optical and quantum communication system development efforts at the component, subsystem, system, and architecture levels.
• Evaluate designs and technologies including optical terminals, free‑space optical links, photonic components, entanglement‑based communication architectures, and quantum‑enhanced optical subsystems.
• Assess emerging technologies and identify gaps related to high‑bandwidth space links, advanced modulation formats, pointing/tracking systems, link budgets, networking performance, and secure quantum‑enabled transport architectures.
• Support development of technology roadmaps, requirements, specifications, verification approaches, and transition strategies for optical and quantum system modernization.
• Conduct technical outreach with mission users to capture needs and evaluate applicability of emerging optical and quantum capabilities.
• Prepare system engineering documentation, technical analyses, and program‑level briefings to communicate findings and strategic recommendations.
• Provide support to programmatic and acquisition activities, including source selections, lifecycle documentation, and system integration planning.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications 
• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, physics, or related discipline and nine (9) years or more experience; Masters and seven (7) years or more experience ; PhD or JD and four (4) years or more experience
• Experience with USG program management and acquisition lifecycle processes and documentation.
• Strong interpersonal, verbal, and technical writing communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools.
Desired Qualifications 
• Master’s degree in engineering, physics, or related discipline.
• 12+ years of relevant experience, including at least 4 years in optical or quantum communication systems.
• 1+ year of experience supporting USG R&D acquisition processes and documentation.
• Experience with space‑based optical terminals, quantum optical payloads, photonic systems, or advanced quantum‑enhanced communication architectures

Target salary range: $160,001 - $200,000. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors.

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