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Senior Physicist Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Senior Defense Technologist

Arlington, VA · On-site

$150K - $250K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Operations Research, Engineering, Physics, Computer Science, Mathematics ... Experience supporting senior defense leaders with decision-focused analysis. * Ability to work ...

Leidos is seeking a Senior AI/Data Scientist to drive advanced AI development for a strategic ... Architect and deploy advanced machine learning models (e.g., Physics-Informed Neural Networks ...

Leidos is seeking a Senior AI/Data Scientist to drive advanced AI development for a strategic ... Architect and deploy advanced machine learning models (e.g., Physics-Informed Neural Networks ...

Leidos is seeking a Senior AI/Data Scientist to drive advanced AI development for a strategic ... Architect and deploy advanced machine learning models (e.g., Physics-Informed Neural Networks ...

Leidos is seeking a Senior AI/Data Scientist to drive advanced AI development for a strategic ... Architect and deploy advanced machine learning models (e.g., Physics-Informed Neural Networks ...

Sr. Photonics Scientist

Arlington, VA · On-site

$107K - $195K/yr

The Sr. Photonics Scientist will be based in our Arlington, VA office to further advance our test ... Basic Qualifications: * BS degree in physics, applied physics, engineering, or a similar technical ...

Showing results 21-40

Senior Physicist information

See Virginia salary details

$39.2K

$94K

$224.6K

How much do senior physicist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior 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 senior physicist?

Senior Physicists are highly experienced scientists who conduct advanced research in physics, often leading teams and projects in academic, government, or industrial settings. They apply complex theories, design experiments, and analyze data to make discoveries or solve practical problems. In addition to research, they may mentor junior staff, publish findings, and contribute to strategic planning. Senior Physicists typically hold a Ph.D. in physics or a related field and have several years of research experience. Their expertise is crucial in driving innovation and advancing knowledge in physical sciences.

How does a senior physicist typically collaborate with interdisciplinary teams on research projects?

Senior Physicists often work closely with professionals from engineering, computer science, and materials science to address complex research questions. Collaboration usually involves coordinating experimental design, sharing data analysis methodologies, and integrating diverse expertise to interpret results. This teamwork enhances the depth and impact of research findings, and strong communication skills are essential for aligning project goals and timelines. Senior Physicists may also mentor junior researchers and facilitate knowledge transfer between team members, contributing to a productive and innovative research environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior physicist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior Physicist, you need deep expertise in physics, advanced mathematical skills, and typically a Ph.D. in physics or a related field. Familiarity with specialized software for simulations and data analysis, such as MATLAB or Python, and experience with laboratory instrumentation are often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, leadership, and effective communication set outstanding candidates apart. These skills are crucial for driving scientific innovation, managing research projects, and collaborating within multidisciplinary teams.

What is the difference between Senior Physicist vs Physicist?

AspectSenior Physicist
CredentialsMaster's or PhD in Physics, extensive experience
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, industry, academia
ResponsibilitiesLeading projects, advanced research, mentoring
Industry UsageResearch institutions, tech companies, government agencies

The main difference between a Senior Physicist and a Physicist is experience level and responsibility. Senior Physicists typically have more years of experience, lead projects, and mentor junior staff, whereas Physicists are often entry- to mid-level professionals conducting research and experiments. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds, but Senior Physicists are expected to take on leadership roles within their organizations.

Is being a senior physicist a high paying job?

Senior physicists typically earn high salaries due to their advanced expertise, experience, and specialized skills in research, development, or industry applications. Compensation varies by industry, location, and sector, but senior roles generally offer above-average pay compared to entry-level positions in physics-related fields.

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

The most popular types of Physicist jobs in Virginia are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Senior Physicist jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Senior Physicist job openings:

Infographic showing various Senior Physicist job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,991 per year, or $45.2 per hour.

Physicist and All-Source Analyst, Senior with Security Clearance

Booz Allen Hamilton

Charlottesville, VA • On-site

$61K - $141K/yr

Other

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Booz Allen Hamilton rating

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Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 49 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

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Job description

Job Number: R0245544 Physicist and All-Source Analyst, Senior The Opportunity: Support defense analytical requirements with enhanced scientific research, capability or limitation analysis, reverse engineering analysis or characterizations, and facility and vulnerability assessments. Support applied and interdisciplinary fields of physics such as astrophysics, biophysics, directed energy weapon s, and geophysics. Conduct independent research, technical writing, modeling, and overseeing or advising of allied engineering disciplines on fiber optics, acoustics, semiconductors, lasers, weapon s development, and testing and identify the characteristics of hard and deeply buried targets. Prepare products to describe and document findings and activities. You Have: * Experience conducting all-source analytic production on nuclear programs, including production facilities, stockpiles, logistics, systems employment, security, and vulnerabilities of facilities and stockpiles
* Experience with all-source analysis production, including analytic tradecraft, ICD 203 and 206, and DIA writing style
* Knowledge of applying and querying SIGINT, GEOINT, OSINT, and HUMINT data sets and databases
* Knowledge of nuclear weapon s programs, including nuclear weapon s effects, nuclear fuel cycle, and nuclear infrastructure
* Ability to independently develop high-quality tailored deliverables, including actionable leads, ICD-compliant written products, network charts, and formal or informal briefings
* Ability to adjust to changing mission requirements and deliver products within a short time frame
* Ability to collaborate with other mission partners on production and take lead briefing at unique events
* Active TS/SCI clearance; willingness to take a polygraph exam
* Bachelor's degree and 8+ years of experience with intelligence, or 12+ years of experience with intelligence in lieu of a degree Nice If You Have: * Experience countering missiles and delivery systems, advanced weapon s, and CBRN E
* Experience with data analytics and visualization
* TS/SCI clearance with a polygraph
* Bachelor's degree in Nuclear Engineering, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or Chemical Engineering Clearance: Applicants selected will be subject to a security investigation and may need to meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information ; TS/SCI clearance is required. Compensation At Booz Allen, we celebrate your contributions, provide you with opportunities and choices, and support your total well-being. Our offerings include health, life, disability, financial, and retirement benefits, as well as paid leave, professional development, tuition assistance, work-life programs, and dependent care. Our recognition awards program acknowledges employees for exceptional performance and superior demonstration of our values. Full-time and part-time employees working at least 20 hours a week on a regular basis are eligible to participate in Booz Allen's benefit programs. Individuals that do not meet the threshold are only eligible for select offerings, not inclusive of health benefits. We encourage you to learn more about our total benefits by visiting the Resource page on our Careers site and reviewing Our Employee Benefits page. Salary at Booz Allen is determined by various factors, including but not limited to location, the individual's particular combination of education, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience, as well as contract-specific affordability and organizational requirements. The projected compensation range for this position is $61,900.00 to $141,000.00 (annualized USD). The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position and is just one component of Booz Allen's total compensation package for employees. This posting will close within 90 days from the Posting Date. Identity Statement As part of the hiring process, we will ask you to complete an identity verification process that leverages advanced biometrics and artificial intelligence to ensure authenticity and protect against identity fraud. You are expected to be on camera during interviews and assessments. We reserve the right to take your picture to verify your identity and prevent fraud. Candidate AI Usage Policy AI is a part of our daily work at Booz Allen, and we are committed to the responsible and ethical use of AI tools. However, we want to ensure a fair candidate process based on your own skills and knowledge. As part of this commitment, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) or other tools to assist with responses during interviews (whether in-person or virtual) is prohibited unless permission is explicitly provided. Work Model Our people-first culture prioritizes the benefits of collaboration, whether it occurs in person or virtually. To support engagement and effective communication, employees working virtually are generally expected to have their cameras on during meetings. * Remote: If this position is listed as remote, there may still be occasions when you are required to work in person at a Booz Allen or customer facility.
* Hybrid: If this position is listed as hybrid, you will be expected to work from a Booz Allen facility frequently, in alignment with leadership expectations and the needs of the role. You may also be required to work from or visit a customer facility.
* Onsite: If this position is listed as onsite, work will primarily be performed at a Booz Allen office or customer facility, where employees will collaborate directly with colleagues and customers as required by the role. Commitment to Non-Discrimination All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability, status as a protected veteran or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, local, or international law.

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About Booz Allen Hamilton

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Booz Allen Hamilton is a leading provider of management and technology consulting services to the US government in defense, intelligence, and civil markets. Headquartered in McLean, Virginia, the firm also serves major corporations, institutions, and not-for-profit organizations. Founded in 1914 by Edwin G. Booz, the company has a long-standing tradition of helping clients achieve success by delivering a wide range of consulting services that include strategic planning, human capital and learning, communication, systems development, and others. The company's mission is to empower people to change the world, and it has a reputation for maintaining the highest standards of integrity and-excellence.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

McLean, VA, US

Year founded

1914