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Senior Physicist Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Leidos

Sr. Photonics Scientist

Arlington, VA · Hybrid

$107K - $195K/yr

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

Leidos

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 ...

EPS Corporation

SR ELECTRICAL ENGINEER

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

$109K - $142K/yr

... physics and the implication of device physics on terminal parameters. • Demonstrated ability with RF systems design, integration, testing, and repair of both surface and airborne systems. • ...

nou Systems

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 ...

EPS Corporation

SR ELECTRICAL ENGINEER

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

$109K - $142K/yr

EPS is seeking a dedicated Senior Electrical Engineer to join EPS CorporationBachelor's degree from ... power semiconductor physics and the implication of device physics on terminal parameters.

NCSL International

Senior Scientist

Springfield, VA · On-site

$150 - $200/hr

Senior Scientist What Impact You'll Have GRVTY is looking for a Senior Scientist to support ... Bachelor\'s degree in Image Science, Engineering, Applied Physics, Atmospheric Science, Applied ...

IC-CAP LLC

Systems Engineer Senior-Level 112-008

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$107K - $146K/yr

Senior-level Systems Engineers guide engineering teams in taking a multi-discipline approach to ... physics, mathematics, operations research, engineering management, Computer Science, Information ...

Venturegloballng

Senior Engineer, Production

Arlington, VA · Hybrid

$158K - $186K/yr

The Senior Production Engineer will report to the Principal Production Engineer and will be ... Using appropriate methodologies such data driven, physics-based and data analytics models depending ...

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All JobsPhysicist JobsSenior Physicist JobsSenior Physicist Jobs in Virginia

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:

Senior Physicist jobs near you
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.

Sr. Photonics Scientist

Leidos

Arlington, VA • Hybrid

$107K - $195K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Leidos rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 153 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

81st of 500 rated business services

Job description

Job Description

Leidos has a new and exciting opportunity for a Sr Photonics Scientist in our INTEL Sector's Cyber & Analytics Business Area (CABA). Our talented team is at the forefront in Security Engineering, Computer Network Operations (CNO), Mission Software, Analytical Methods and Modeling, Signals Intelligence (SIGINT), and Cryptographic Key Management. At Leidos, we offer competitive benefits, including Paid Time Off, 11 paid Holidays, 401K with a 6% company match and immediate vesting, Flexible Schedules, Discounted Stock Purchase Plans, Technical Upskilling, Education and Training Support, Parental Paid Leave, and much more. Join us and make a difference in National Security!

The Sr. Photonics Scientistwill be based in our Arlington, VA office to further advance ourtest anddesign capabilities in integrated photonicsboth internally and on directgovernmentprograms.This rolewill take the lead inperformingtesting and characterizationofedge-coupled integratedquantum photonic devices.In addition,youmay performsimulation and design work to buildhigh-fidelitymodels for these photonic devices, which fall inthe areas of Quantum Sensing and Networking.In this position,youwill collaborate closely withothercircuit designers and test engineers to understand requirements and provide the necessary support to ensure successful completion of project goals and tasks.The candidate will be responsible for developing and applying new approaches in integrated photonics on topics such as non-linear optics, electro-optics, frequency conversion, and single photon detection. ***This is a hybrid role and there will be opportunities to be able to do some work remotely***

Primary Responsibilities:

  • Develop innovative approaches to integrated photonics for component modeling, design, and testing.

  • Perform open-ended numerical optimizations in the areasof photonicsand quantum science.

  • Design photonic circuitsthrough script-based creation of CAD files.

  • Design, construct, and operate all necessary PIC probing hardware set-ups and components.

  • Characterize photonic circuit components on edge-coupled and grating-coupled devices using specialized probing hardware.

  • Research and evaluate emerging photonic technologies.

  • Participate in scientific meetings and publish in peer-reviewed literature.

  • Work collegially with a talented team of peers as well as university and government collaborators.

Basic Qualifications:

  • BS degree in physics, applied physics, engineering, or a similar technical field with 8-12 years of relevant industry experience, orMS degree with 6-10 years of industry experience.

  • Experience with optimizationof photonic components using simulation tools (COMSOL,Lumerical, or equivalent).

  • Experience designing and building optical probing hardware set-ups, developing PIC test plans, and characterizing photonic circuit components.

  • Research experience in the areas of nonlinear optics, atomic physics, quantum information science, and/or quantum photonics.

  • Strongproficiencyin Python programmingand object-oriented programming.

  • Familiarity with GDS factory or similar design tools.

  • Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills and ability to work independently on complex tasks and lead technical efforts.

  • Strong technical writing and communication skills.

  • Must be a US CITIZEN and be able to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret clearance.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • PhD degree in physics, applied physics, engineering, or other equivalent area of expertise.

  • Experience with PDKs, semiconductor or nanofabrication processing, and packaging of photonic integrated circuits.

  • Experience conceptualizing and implementing new networking approaches and protocols.

  • Experience with quantum sensing or communications.

If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo - because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 - and moving faster than anyone else dares.

Original Posting:September 2, 2026

For U.S. Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above.

Pay Range:Pay Range $107,900.00 - $195,050.00

The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline onlyand not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.

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About Leidos

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people who are dedicated to our customers' success. We empower our teams, contribute to our communities, and operate sustainable practices. Everything we do is built on a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Reston, VA, US

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