Research Software Engineer Physics information
See salary details
$111.5K - $120.1K
0% of jobs
$120.1K - $128.7K
0% of jobs
$128.7K - $137.3K
0% of jobs
$137.3K - $145.9K
4% of jobs
$145.9K - $154.5K
0% of jobs
$154.5K - $163K
0% of jobs
$163K - $171.6K
0% of jobs
$171.6K - $180.2K
2% of jobs
$180.2K - $188.8K
0% of jobs
$188.8K - $197.4K
0% of jobs
$199.1K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$197.4K - $206K
94% of jobs
How much do research software engineer physics jobs pay per year?
As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for research software engineer physics in the United States is $200,510.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $205,000.00 and $205,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.
A Research Software Engineer (RSE) in Physics is a professional who combines expertise in software development with a strong background in physics research. They collaborate with scientists and researchers to design, build, and maintain software tools and simulations that support physics experiments and data analysis. Their work is crucial for enabling complex computations, managing large datasets, and advancing scientific discovery in the field of physics. RSEs often bridge the gap between traditional research and modern computational methods, ensuring that software used in physics research is robust, efficient, and reproducible.
Research Software Engineers (RSEs) in Physics often split their time between developing and maintaining specialized software and collaborating with physicists on research projects. This dual focus requires effective time management, as RSEs must stay updated on both software best practices and emerging scientific methodologies. They frequently participate in team meetings, contribute to code reviews, and help translate complex physics problems into computational solutions. Collaboration with faculty, postdocs, and graduate students is common, ensuring that software tools align with research goals and experimental data requirements.
To thrive as a Research Software Engineer in Physics, you need a strong background in physics, computer science, and mathematics, often supported by a relevant degree or postgraduate qualification. Familiarity with programming languages such as Python, C++, and MATLAB, as well as experience with simulation tools and version control systems like Git, is typically required. Problem-solving ability, collaboration, and clear communication are essential soft skills for working within interdisciplinary research teams. These skills and qualifications are vital for developing robust scientific software that advances research and facilitates discovery in complex physical systems.
What are popular job titles related to Research Software Engineer Physics jobs?
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