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Space Physicist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$74.68K/yr

... with space weather applications and other missions; participates in highly technical program ... physics and space weather application. 2. Knowledge of optical and laser technology in order to ...

$74.68K/yr

... with space weather applications and other missions; participates in highly technical program ... physics and space weather application. 2. Knowledge of optical and laser technology in order to ...

Quantum Physicist

Madison, WI · On-site

$130K - $211K/yr

... solution space, drive project execution. * Develop, test, run, and debug software for conducting ... PhD in atomic physics, optical physics, or related field; or equivalent related professional ...

Quantum Physicist

Boulder, CO · On-site

$130K - $211K/yr

... solution space, drive project execution. * Develop, test, run, and debug software for conducting ... PhD in atomic physics, optical physics, or related field; or equivalent related professional ...

Quantum Physicist

Boulder, CO · On-site

$130K - $211K/yr

... solution space, drive project execution. * Develop, test, run, and debug software for conducting ... PhD in atomic physics, optical physics, or related field; or equivalent related professional ...

Quantum Physicist

Madison, WI · On-site

$130K - $211K/yr

... solution space, drive project execution. * Develop, test, run, and debug software for conducting ... PhD in atomic physics, optical physics, or related field; or equivalent related professional ...

Quantum Physicist

Chicago, IL · On-site

$130K - $211K/yr

... solution space, drive project execution. * Develop, test, run, and debug software for conducting ... PhD in atomic physics, optical physics, or related field; or equivalent related professional ...

Quantum Physicist

Boulder, CO · On-site

$130K - $211K/yr

... solution space, drive project execution. * Develop, test, run, and debug software for conducting ... PhD in atomic physics, optical physics, or related field; or equivalent related professional ...

... solution space, drive project execution. * Develop, test, run, and debug software for conducting ... PhD in atomic physics, optical physics, or related field; or equivalent related professional ...

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Space Physicist information

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$39.5K

$94.8K

$226.5K

How much do space physicist jobs pay per year?

As of May 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for space 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.

What does a Space Physicist do?

A Space Physicist studies the physical processes occurring in space, including the interactions between solar radiation, magnetic fields, and charged particles. They analyze data from satellites, space probes, and ground-based observations to understand phenomena like space weather, auroras, and cosmic rays. Their research helps improve satellite technology, predict solar storms, and enhance our understanding of planetary atmospheres and magnetospheres.

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

To thrive as a Space Physicist, you need a solid background in physics, mathematics, and space science, typically supported by an advanced degree such as a master's or PhD in a related field. Familiarity with data analysis software (like MATLAB or Python), remote sensing instruments, and experience using laboratory or satellite-based equipment is essential. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving ability, and effective collaboration and communication skills help distinguish top candidates. These skills and qualities are crucial for interpreting complex data, advancing space research, and contributing effectively to interdisciplinary scientific teams.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Space Physicist?

Space Physicists spend their days conducting research on various phenomena such as solar winds, cosmic rays, or magnetic fields, often using data from satellites and space missions. They analyze and interpret large datasets, develop computational models, design experiments, and sometimes write code to simulate physical processes. Collaboration is common, so Space Physicists regularly meet with other scientists, engineers, or project managers to discuss findings and plan future research. Additionally, they may present their results at conferences or contribute to scientific publications as part of their ongoing projects.
What cities are hiring for Space Physicist jobs? Cities with the most Space Physicist job openings:
What states have the most Space Physicist jobs? States with the most job openings for Space Physicist jobs include:
Infographic showing various Space Physicist job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $94,805 per year, or $45.6 per hour.
Research Physicist

Research Physicist

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

Joint Base San Antonio (randolph), TX

$74.68K/yr

Other

Posted 9 days ago


U.S. Department Of Defense rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 517 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 46 rated military and defense


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

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