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Temporary Space Plasma Physics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Pulsed Power R&D Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$152K - $159K/yr

... for use in space and on-earth. We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Pulsed Power R&D ... Background in plasma physics. * Basic domain knowledge including surface mount soldering, EMI ...

Pulsed Power R&D Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$152K - $159K/yr

... for use in space and on-earth. We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Pulsed Power R&D ... Background in plasma physics. * Basic domain knowledge including surface mount soldering, EMI ...

Pulsed Power R&D Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site +1

$152K - $159K/yr

... for use in space and on-earth. We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Pulsed Power R&D ... Background in plasma physics. * Basic domain knowledge including surface mount soldering, EMI ...

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Temporary Space Plasma Physics information

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How much do temporary space plasma physics jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for temporary space plasma physics in the United States is $20.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.50 and $25.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a temporary space plasma physicist do?

In a temporary space plasma physics position, you can expect to spend your days analyzing data from space missions, running simulations, and preparing research findings for publication or presentations. Collaboration is common; you'll often work closely with senior researchers, engineers, and data analysts to interpret complex plasma behaviors and contribute to ongoing projects. Regular meetings and joint problem-solving sessions are part of the work environment, helping ensure findings are robust and aligned with project goals. This dynamic fosters both learning and professional networking, even within a temporary contract.

What is temporary space plasma physics?

Temporary Space Plasma Physics jobs are short-term research or technical positions focused on studying the behavior of ionized gases (plasmas) in outer space environments. These roles may involve data analysis, computer simulations, or laboratory experiments related to phenomena such as solar wind, magnetospheres, or auroras. Such positions are often available at universities, government agencies, or research institutions and can be part of projects funded for a specific duration. Temporary roles are ideal for gaining research experience, especially for graduate students or early-career scientists exploring the field of space plasma physics.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a temporary space plasma physicist?

To thrive as a Temporary Space Plasma Physicist, you need a strong background in physics or space science, typically with a PhD or advanced degree, and expertise in plasma dynamics and magnetospheric processes. Familiarity with data analysis software, simulation tools (such as MATLAB or Python), and experience working with satellite or laboratory plasma data are crucial. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective collaboration are valuable soft skills in this field. These competencies ensure accurate research, contribute to scientific discoveries, and facilitate productive teamwork in time-limited research environments.

What is the difference between Temporary Space Plasma Physics vs Temporary Space Weather Analyst?

AspectTemporary Space Plasma PhysicsTemporary Space Weather Analyst
Required CredentialsPhysics degree, specialized training in plasma physicsPhysics or atmospheric science degree, training in space weather
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, space agencies, universitiesSpace agencies, government agencies, research institutions
Industry UsageStudying plasma phenomena in space environmentsMonitoring and forecasting space weather impacts on technology

Temporary Space Plasma Physics focuses on understanding plasma behavior in space, often through research and experiments. In contrast, Temporary Space Weather Analysts monitor and predict space weather events that can affect satellites and communication systems. Both roles require physics knowledge but serve different practical applications within the space industry.

What cities are hiring for Temporary Space Plasma Physics jobs? Cities with the most Temporary Space Plasma Physics job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Space Plasma Physics jobs? The most popular types of Space Plasma Physics jobs are:
What states have the most Temporary Space Plasma Physics jobs? States with the most job openings for Temporary Space Plasma Physics jobs include:

Applied Mathematics and Plasma Physics Group Leader (T-5) (R&D Manager 4)

Los Alamos National Laboratory

Los Alamos, NM

$170K - $295K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


Los Alamos National Laboratory rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

8th of 120 rated laboratories


Job description

What You Will Do
This position is open for both internal and external candidates to apply.
The Theoretical Division is seeking candidates for the Group Leader position in the Applied Mathematics and Plasma Physics Group. The Applied Mathematics and Plasma Physics Group (T-5) in the Theoretical Division conducts research in applied mathematics, numerical analysis, optimization and control, artificial intelligence, image reconstruction/processing, network science, theoretical and computational plasma physics, space weather and fusion energy science. The group integrates an interdisciplinary team of researchers trained in mathematics, statistics, computer science, physics and engineering.
The group leader's responsibilities include:
  • Strategic and operational management of the group
  • Participation in division-level visions and strategies
  • Promoting and maintaining fruitful scientific interactions with both internal and external organizations
  • Working with staff scientists to recruit, mentor, and develop outstanding new scientific talent
  • Fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce and environment
  • Development of new opportunities to support the research enterprise in the group
  • Direct supervision of the group's staff with responsibility for their performance evaluation, salary, and career development.

The group is composed of 43 staff scientists and 26 postdoctoral fellows who are supported by an annual budget of over $50M from multiple sponsors, including DOE (NNSA, Office of Science, Office of Electricity, ARPA-E), DOD and NASA. The group contributes to national and global security, with its researchers combining mathematical modeling, large scale computer simulations, and AI/data science to support Los Alamos National Laboratory's enhanced deterrence mission.
The group leader's responsibilities include management of the group, working with the division management, promoting and maintaining fruitful scientific interactions with organizations at LANL, working with staff scientists to recruit and develop outstanding new scientific talent, and to help develop new opportunities to support this research, and to develop the careers of graduate students, postdocs, and staff. The group leader must also conduct an active and vibrant research program at approximately 50% of their time.

What You Need
Minimum Job Requirements:
  • Demonstrated expertise and record of accomplishment in one or more of the research areas described above; the ability to contribute technically to one or more group projects, and the ability to develop programs in associated technical areas.
  • Effective and successful leadership experience, preferably in a scientific or technical team, group, or project setting.
  • Experience recruiting, mentoring, supervising, and facilitating the technical work of scientific researchers at all levels.
  • Effective communication skills, which includes, for example, an ability to engage in technical conversations across disciplines, an ability to discuss program strategies with current and potential sponsors, an ability to delegate tasks to staff and administrators, and an ability to interact with all levels of Laboratory management.

Education/Experience: Position requires a Bachelor's Degree from an accredited institution and 8 years related experience; or, an equivalent combination of education and experience directly related to the occupation.
Desired Qualifications:
  • Experience building collaborative relationships across group, division, laboratory, and national boundaries.
  • Experience proposing, developing, and sustaining research programs.
  • Demonstrated record of recruitment and mentoring of excellent scientists.
  • Active Q Clearance

Work Location: The work location for this position is onsite and located in Los Alamos, NM. All work locations are at the discretion of management.
Position commitment: Regular appointment employees are required to serve a period of continuous service in their current position in order to be eligible to apply for posted jobs throughout the Laboratory. If an employee has not served the time required, they may only apply for Laboratory jobs with the documented approval of their Division Leader. The position commitment for this position is 1 year.
Note to Applicants:
Due to federal restrictions contained in the current National Defense Authorization Act, citizens of the People's Republic of China-including the special administrative regions of Hong Kong and Macau-as well as citizens of the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (North Korea), and the Russian Federation, who are not Lawful Permanent Residents ("green card" holders) are prohibited from accessing facilities that support the mission, functions, and operations of national security laboratories and nuclear weapons production facilities, which includes Los Alamos National Laboratory.
Where You Will Work
Located in beautiful northern New Mexico, Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is a multidisciplinary research institution engaged in strategic science on behalf of national security. Our generous benefits package includes:
§ PPO or High Deductible medical insurance with the same large nationwide network
§ Dental and vision insurance
§ Free basic life and disability insurance
§ Paid childbirth and parental leave
§ Award-winning 401(k) (6% matching plus 3.5% annually)
§ Learning opportunities and tuition assistance
§ Flexible schedules and time off (PTO and holidays)
§ Onsite gyms and wellness programs
§ Extensive relocation packages (outside a 50 mile radius)
Additional Details
Directive 206.2 - Employment with Triad requires a favorable decision by NNSA indicating employee is suitable under NNSA Supplemental Directive 206.2. Please note that this requirement applies only to citizens of the United States. Foreign nationals are subject to a similar requirement under DOE Order 142.3A.
Clearance: Q (Position will be cleared to this level). Selected applicants will be subject to a background investigation conducted by or on behalf of the Federal Government, and must meet eligibility requirements* for access to classified matter. This position requires a Q clearance, and obtaining such clearance requires US Citizenship except in extremely rare circumstances. Dependent upon the position, additional authorization to access classified information may be required, which may or may not be available to dual citizens. Receipt of a Q clearance and additional access authorization ultimately is a decision of the Federal Government and not of Triad.
*Eligibility requirements: To obtain a clearance, an individual must be at least 18 years of age; U.S. citizenship is required except in very limited circumstances. See DOE Order 472.2 for additional information.
New-Employment Drug Test: The Laboratory requires successful applicants to complete a new-employment drug test and maintains a substance abuse policy that includes random drug testing. Although New Mexico and other states have legalized the use of marijuana, use and possession of marijuana remain illegal under federal law. A positive drug test for marijuana will result in termination of employment, even if the use was pre-offer.
Regular position: Term status Laboratory employees applying for regular-status positions are converted to regular status.
Internal Applicants: Regular appointment employees who have served the required period of continuous service in their current position are eligible to apply for posted jobs throughout the Laboratory. If an employee has not served the required period of continuous service, they may only apply for Laboratory jobs with the documented approval of their Division Leader. Please refer to Policy Policy P701 for applicant eligibility requirements.
Incentive Compensation Program: Position is eligible to participate in the Triad Incentive Compensation Program. You must be in an eligible position for a minimum of 3 months, before July 1st and remain in an eligible position as of the end of the fiscal year, September 30th. The annual distribution is prorated based on the number of months in the eligible position.
Equal Opportunity: Los Alamos National Laboratory is an equal opportunity employer. All employment practices are based on qualification and merit, without regard to protected categories such as race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status or spousal affiliation, physical or mental disability, medical conditions, pregnancy, status as a protected veteran, genetic information, or citizenship within the limits imposed by federal, state, and local laws and regulations. The Laboratory is also committed to making our workplace accessible to individuals with disabilities and will provide reasonable accommodations, upon request, for individuals to participate in the application and hiring process. To request such an accommodation, please send an email to applyhelp@lanl.gov or call (505)-664-6947.

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