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Research Physicist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$74K/yr

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs): 1. Knowledge, skill and ability to independently conduct basic and applied research and development on ionosphere physics and space weather application. 2. ...

As our Product Research Physicist focusing on the control of neutral-atom systems, you will own the deep understanding of what it takes to control neutral-atom platforms - and how to scale them, from ...

Quantum Research Physicist

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$115K - $215K/yr

Quantum Research Physicist College Park, Maryland 20742 JTEC Consulting LLC focuses on successfully delivering solutions to meet our clients' most critical needs. Our founding members have decades of ...

Physicist

Beavercreek, OH ยท On-site

$110K - $160K/yr

Riverside Overview Riverside Research is an independent National Security Nonprofit dedicated to ... Position Overview Riverside Research's Applied Mathematics and Physics Solutions (AMPS) group is ...

Physicist

Amityville, NY ยท On-site

$99K - $177K/yr

The Physicist will play a key role in supporting research, development, and problem-solving across a variety of technical projects. This individual will apply principles of physics to design, test ...

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Research Physicist information

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$39.5K

$94.8K

$226.5K

How much do research physicist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for research physicist in the United States is $94,805.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,000.00 and $112,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much does a research physicist make?

Research physicists typically earn a median annual salary of around $125,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $70,000 to over $180,000 depending on experience, education, and location. Advanced skills, such as proficiency with scientific software and research tools, can influence compensation, especially in academia, government, or private industry.

What is the highest paid physicist?

The highest paid physicists are often those working in industry, such as in aerospace, defense, or technology sectors, where salaries can exceed $150,000 annually. Senior researchers, physics directors, or those with specialized skills in quantum computing or nuclear physics tend to earn the highest compensation.

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.

Is physics research a good career?

Physics research is a specialized career that involves conducting experiments, developing theories, and analyzing data to advance scientific understanding. It often requires advanced degrees such as a Ph.D., strong analytical skills, and familiarity with laboratory tools and programming. While it can be intellectually rewarding, job stability and salary levels vary depending on funding, industry, and location.

What is a Research Physicist job?

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 does a research physicist do?

A research physicist investigates 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 develop new scientific knowledge. Their work supports technological advancements and requires strong analytical skills and a background in physics or related fields.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Research Physicist position, and why are they important?

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.

More about Research Physicist jobs
What cities are hiring for Research Physicist jobs? Cities with the most Research Physicist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Research Physicist jobs? The most popular types of Research Physicist jobs are:
What states have the most Research Physicist jobs? States with the most job openings for Research Physicist jobs include:
Infographic showing various Research Physicist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,805 per year, or $45.6 per hour.
Research Physicist

Research Physicist

US Department of the Air Force

Hill Air Force Base, UT โ€ข On-site

$74K/yr

Other

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Click on "Learn more about this agency" button below for IMPORTANT additional information.
This is a Direct Hire Solicitation. This public notice is to gather applications that may or may not result in a referral or selection.Qualifications:In order to qualify, you must meet the specialized experience requirements described in the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards for General Schedule Professional and Scientific Positions.
BASIC REQUIREMENTS:
Degree: physics; or related degree that included at least 24 semester hours in physics.
OR
Combination of education and experience -- courses equivalent to a major in physics totaling at least 24 semester hours, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
In either A or B above, the courses must have included a fundamental course in general physics and, in addition, courses in any two of the following: electricity and magnetism, heat, light, mechanics, modern physics, and sound.
In addition to meeting the basic requirement above, applicants must also meet the additional requirements as reflected below:
For GS-11- At least one year of specialized experience at the next lower grade (GS-09) or equivalent. Experience that equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform successfully the duties of the position, and that is typically in or related to the work of the position to be filled. To be creditable, specialized experience must have been equivalent to at least the next lower grade level in the normal line of progression for the occupation in the organization. And consist of plans, organizes, directs and participates in experimental and theoretical research into the basic mechanisms associated with the emission, absorption and transmission of optical radiation in the natural atmosphere. OR Three years of progressively higher level graduate education leading to a Ph.D. in a related field.
For GS-12 - At least one year of specialized experience at the next lower grade (GS-11) or equivalent. Experience that equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform successfully the duties that consists of conduction in-house technical activities and/or provides contract technical direction to programs of considerable breadth, diversity and complexity with minimal oversight.
For GS-13- Atleast one year of specialized experience at the next lower grade (GS-12) or equivalent. Experience that equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform successfully the duties of the position, that consist of designs, implements and tests sophisticated forecast models and computer algorithms to be operationally used in conjunction with space weather applications and other missions; participates in highly technical program reviews; develops and uses computer models to analyze data from satellites and ground based instruments.
For GS-14- At least one year of specialized experience at the next lower grade (GS-13) or equivalent. Experience that equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform successfully the duties of the position, and that is typically in or related to the work of the position to be filled. Consisted of leading and managing complex, challenging, and innovative technical activities and programs in field of upper atmosphere and it interaction and impact to the space systems; prepares and presents technical briefings and documentation; guides the research, technical and/or programmatic, and administrative efforts of individuals or teams.
For GS-15- At least one year of specialized experience at the next lower grade (GS-14) or equivalent. Experience that equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform successfully the duties of the position, and that is typically in or related to the work of the position to be filled. Consists of being responsible for formulating and directing a research program in atmospheric and terrestrial backgrounds for space based sensors; establishes research priorities and funding levels, assembles a team of co-investigators; reviews scientific literature, converses on and coordinates issues with the international scientific community and directs exploratory research.
Click on the following link to view occupational requirements for this position:
https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/1300/physics-series-1310/

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs):
1. Knowledge, skill and ability to independently conduct basic and applied research and development on ionosphere physics and space weather application.
2. Knowledge of optical and laser technology in order to investigate the absorption of light and other radiation by solid and liquid particles and molecules in space.
3. Advanced knowledge of and ability to apply theoretical and experimental investigations in areas of measurement sand modeling of particulate and molecular properties. In particular, performs modeling and data analysis of optical scattering and transmission in order to develop improved models of particulate and molecular effects on AF and DoD systems.
4. Ability to devise, develop and write software to calibrate and analyze spectral experimental data. Must be capable of utilizing modern programming techniques and languages. Must be fluent in scientific writing and possess a thorough appreciation of the scientific method and able to converse with authorizes in field project own ideas and recommendations and defend his ideas to higher authority.
5. Knowledge, ability and skill in written and oral communication for technical reports, briefings, coordination and program management.
6. Ability to measure atmospheric phenomena with appropriate scientific equipment and instrumentation.
PART-TIME OR UNPAID EXPERIENCE: Credit will be given for appropriate unpaid and or part-time work. You must clearly identify the duties and responsibilities in each position held and the total number of hours per week.
VOLUNTEER WORK EXPERIENCE: Refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service Programs (i.e., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student and social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge and skills that can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.Education:IF USING EDUCATION TO QUALIFY: If position has a positive degree requirement or education forms the basis for qualifications, you MUST submit transcriptswith the application. Official transcripts are not required at the time of application; however, if position has a positive degree requirement, qualifying based on education alone or in combination with experience; transcripts must be verified prior to appointment. An accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education must accredit education. Click here to check accreditation.
FOREIGN EDUCATION: Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the requirements. You must show proof the education credentials have been deemed to be at least equivalent to that gained in conventional U.S. education program. It is your responsibility to provide such evidence when applying.Employment Type: OTHER