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Research Physicist Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Mercor

Physics Research Expert - PhD

San Francisco, CA · On-site +1

$80 - $140/hr

Research Physics Expert Type: Contract Compensation: $80-$140/hour Location: Remote Commitment: ~10 hours/week Role Responsibilities * Solve research-level physics challenges end-to-end with ...

AOSense, Inc.

Physicist

Fremont, CA · On-site

As a Physicist at AOSense, you will apply your experience in laser technology and atomic physics to ... Contribute to research proposals for further development and applications Requirements

AOSense, Inc.

Physicist

Fremont, CA · On-site

As a Physicist at AOSense, you will apply your experience in laser technology and atomic physics to ... Contribute to research proposals for further development and applications Requirements

AOSense, Inc.

Physicist

Fremont, CA · On-site

As a Physicist at AOSense, you will apply your experience in laser technology and atomic physics to ... Contribute to research proposals for further development and applications Requirements

Pronoia

Theoretical Physicist

Torrance, CA · On-site

$120 - $170/hr

This will be an early scientist in our most fundamental research function, working directly with ... A physics PhD with genuine theoretical depth in a relevant subfield, such as quantum thermodynamics ...

New

Praxis, Inc.

Theoretical Physicist

Torrance, CA · On-site

$150 - $210/hr

This will be an early scientist in our most fundamental research function, working directly with ... A physics PhD with genuine theoretical depth in a relevant subfield, such as quantum thermodynamics ...

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All JobsResearch Physicist JobsResearch Physicist Jobs in California

Research Physicist information

See California salary details

$39K

$93.6K

$223.5K

How much do research physicist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for research physicist in California is $93,563.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,200.00 and $110,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a research physicist?

A Research Physicist studies physical phenomena to develop new theories, conduct experiments, and apply scientific principles to solve complex problems. They work in various fields, including quantum mechanics, materials science, and nuclear physics, often in academic, government, or industrial settings. Their responsibilities include designing experiments, analyzing data, publishing findings, and developing new technologies.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a research physicist?

To thrive as a Research Physicist, you need an advanced degree in physics or a closely related field, a strong foundation in experimental or theoretical methods, and excellent analytical skills. Expertise in scientific computing tools like MATLAB, Python, or specialized simulation software, as well as experience operating advanced laboratory instruments, are often required. Effective communication, curiosity, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities distinguish top candidates. These skills and qualities are crucial for designing experiments, interpreting complex data, and successfully collaborating on innovative research projects.

What opportunities for career advancement are available to research physicists?

Research Physicists often begin their careers in postdoctoral or entry-level research positions and can progress to senior researcher, project leader, or principal investigator roles within academic, government, or industry settings. Advancement often comes with increased responsibility for managing research projects, supervising junior staff, and securing funding through grants. Many experienced Research Physicists may also move into research management, become university professors, or transition to specialized roles in R&D, patent analysis, or technical consulting. Professional growth is supported by ongoing publication, collaboration, and skill development in emerging technologies.

How much do research physicists get paid?

Research physicists typically earn a median annual salary of around $125,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $70,000 to over $200,000 depending on experience, education, and location. Advanced degrees, specialized skills, and working in industry or government labs can influence compensation levels.

Is there a demand for research physicists?

Research physicists are in demand in industries such as aerospace, defense, energy, and technology, where their expertise in experimental and theoretical physics is valuable. Employment opportunities often require advanced degrees and proficiency with specialized tools like simulation software and laboratory equipment. Job growth is steady, especially in research institutions, government labs, and private sector R&D departments.

What do research physicists do?

Research physicists investigate the fundamental principles of matter, energy, and the universe through experiments, data analysis, and theoretical modeling. They often work in laboratories or academic settings, using tools like advanced microscopes, particle accelerators, and computer simulations to conduct their studies and contribute to scientific knowledge.

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

The most popular types of Research Physicist jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Research Physicist jobs in California?

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

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

The top searched job categories for Research Physicist jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Research Physicist jobs?

Cities in California with the most Research Physicist job openings:

Research Physicist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Research Physicist job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,563 per year, or $45 per hour.

Physics Research Scientist (PhD)

Synthires

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$80 - $135/hr

Other

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

About the Job

Research Physics Expert

Location: Remote

Engagement Type: Hourly Contract

Compensation: $80–$135/hour

About the Opportunity

This opportunity is for experienced Physics Researchers interested in contributing to advanced AI research and evaluation projects. You will help develop and validate high-quality reference solutions for frontier-level physics benchmarks, ensuring that next-generation AI systems are evaluated against rigorous scientific standards.

The work involves solving complex research-level physics problems, reviewing expert solutions, and contributing to the creation of human-verified benchmark data used to measure AI reasoning capabilities.

Ideal Qualifications

• PhD, Postdoctoral Researcher, Faculty Member, or Industry Research Scientist in Physics or a related field.

• Expertise in one or more areas including High Energy Physics, Mathematical Physics, Biophysics, Statistical Physics, Condensed Matter Physics, AMO Physics, Cosmology, Astrophysics, Quantum Information, or Quantum Mechanics.

• Strong publication record demonstrating research expertise in a relevant subfield.

• Experience solving complex research-level physics problems and developing rigorous scientific analyses.

• Proficiency with Python, Jupyter Notebooks, SymPy, and LaTeX.

• Excellent analytical reasoning, problem-solving, and scientific communication skills.

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to scientific accuracy.

Responsibilities

• Solve research-level physics problems and develop complete reference solutions.

• Create structured problem decompositions and verification methodologies.

• Author Python-based answer templates and automated validation functions.

• Review and audit submitted solutions for correctness, rigor, and methodological soundness.

• Provide detailed feedback to improve solution quality and benchmark reliability.

• Adjudicate between competing solution approaches and determine final reference answers.

• Document derivations, verification procedures, error tolerances, and scientific rationale.

• Contribute to the development of high-quality benchmark datasets for evaluating frontier AI systems.

Project Details

• Expected commitment of approximately 10 hours per week.

• Fully remote and asynchronous work environment.

• Opportunity to collaborate with leading AI researchers and domain experts.

• Long-term project engagement with potential extensions based on project needs.

Compensation

• Competitive compensation of $80–$135/hour.

• Weekly payments.

• Independent contractor engagement.

Application Process

  1. Submit your resume, publication record, or research background.
  2. Complete any required assessment or evaluation.
  3. Participate in the expert review process.
  4. Final selection and onboarding.


Apply