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Theoretical Physicist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Saint Joseph Hospital - Lexington

Physicist

Lexington, KY · On-site

$85.21 - $126.74/hr

Job Summary and Responsibilities As a Physicist, you will be a central figure responsible for conducting advanced research, developing innovative theories, and applying fundamental physics principles ...

CommonSpirit Health

Physicist

Lexington, KY

As a Physicist, you will be a central figure responsible for conducting advanced research, developing innovative theories, and applying fundamental physics principles to solve complex scientific and ...

Saint Joseph Hospital - Lexington

Physicist

Lexington, KY

$85.21 - $126.74/hr

Job Summary and Responsibilities As a Physicist, you will be a central figure responsible for conducting advanced research, developing innovative theories, and applying fundamental physics principles ...

CHI St Vincent Hot Springs

Physicist

Hot Springs, AR · On-site

$77.46 - $115.22/hr

Job Summary and Responsibilities As a Physicist, you will be a central figure responsible for conducting advanced research, developing innovative theories, and applying fundamental physics principles ...

Atom Computing

Optical Physicist

Boulder, CO · On-site

$160K - $185K/yr

Perform theoretical modeling (both analytical and numerical), prototyping, and experimental ... D. in Physics, Applied Physics, Optical Sciences, or a closely related discipline with a strong ...

CHI St Vincent Hot Springs

Physicist

Hot Springs, AR

$77.46 - $115.22/hr

Job Summary and Responsibilities As a Physicist, you will be a central figure responsible for conducting advanced research, developing innovative theories, and applying fundamental physics principles ...

CommonSpirit Health

Physicist

Hot Springs, AR · On-site

... developing innovative theories, and applying fundamental physics principles to solve complex ... scientific and technological challenges. You will play a vital role in advancing knowledge and ...

Atom Computing

Optical Physicist

Boulder, CO · On-site

$160K - $185K/yr

Perform theoretical modeling (both analytical and numerical), prototyping, and experimental ... D. in Physics, Applied Physics, Optical Sciences, or a closely related discipline with a strong ...

CHI St Vincent Hot Springs

Physicist

Hot Springs, AR · On-site

$77.46 - $115.22/hr

... developing innovative theories, and applying fundamental physics principles to solve complex ... scientific and technological challenges. You will play a vital role in advancing knowledge and ...

Atom Computing

Optical Physicist

Boulder, CO · On-site

$160K - $185K/yr

Perform theoretical modeling (both analytical and numerical), prototyping, and experimental ... D. in Physics, Applied Physics, Optical Sciences, or a closely related discipline with a strong ...

Riverside Research

Physicist

Beavercreek, OH

$110K - $160K/yr

Plan, design, and conduct experimental testing and validation of theoretical models and numerical ... PhD in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or closely related field

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Theoretical Physicist information

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$39.5K

$94.8K

$226.5K

How much do theoretical physicist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for theoretical 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 theoretical physicist do?

A Theoretical Physicist studies the fundamental laws of nature by developing mathematical models and theories to explain physical phenomena. They work on abstract concepts such as quantum mechanics, relativity, and cosmology, often without direct experimentation. Their work can lead to new scientific discoveries, influence experimental research, and contribute to advancements in technology. Many Theoretical Physicists work in academia, research institutions, or industries like aerospace and computing.

What does a typical workday look like for a theoretical physicist?

A typical day for a Theoretical Physicist often involves formulating and refining mathematical models, running computer simulations, and analyzing data to explore physical phenomena. They may spend time collaborating with experimental physicists, attending research meetings, or reviewing scientific literature to stay current in their field. Writing and revising research papers, preparing for conferences, and mentoring graduate students or team members are also common activities. The work environment is usually a blend of independent research and teamwork within academic institutions, research centers, or government laboratories.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a theoretical physicist?

Excelling as a Theoretical Physicist requires advanced expertise in physics and mathematics, typically supported by a Ph.D. in physics or a closely related field. Familiarity with computational modeling tools (such as MATLAB or Mathematica), programming languages (like Python or C++), and scientific publication systems is common. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and the ability to communicate complex ideas clearly are valuable soft skills in this role. These abilities allow Theoretical Physicists to develop and test new theories, contribute to innovative research, and effectively share their findings with the scientific community.

Does NASA hire theoretical physicists?

NASA employs theoretical physicists in research roles related to astrophysics, space science, and fundamental physics, often requiring advanced degrees such as a Ph.D. and strong analytical skills. These positions may involve developing models, simulations, and contributing to scientific missions, typically within research or engineering teams. Candidates should have expertise in physics, mathematics, and relevant programming tools.

What jobs can a theoretical physicist get?

A theoretical physicist can work in academia as a researcher or professor, in government laboratories conducting fundamental research, or in industry roles such as data analysis, software development, or technology consulting. They often utilize strong analytical, mathematical, and programming skills, and may require advanced degrees like a Ph.D. to qualify for research positions.

What work do theoretical physicists do?

Theoretical physicists develop mathematical models and theories to understand fundamental physical phenomena, such as particles, forces, and the universe's structure. They often work with complex equations, computer simulations, and collaborate with experimental physicists to test their hypotheses, typically working in research institutions or academia.
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Theoretical Physicist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Theoretical Physicist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Internship, 1% As Needed, 65% Full Time, 30% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 70% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 29% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,805 per year, or $45.6 per hour.

Physicist

Saint Joseph Hospital - Lexington

Lexington, KY • On-site

$85.21 - $126.74/hr

Other

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Where You'll Work
Welcome to Saint Joseph Hospital, a 433-bed hospital founded in 1877 by the Sisters of Charity of Nazareth as the first hospital in Lexington, Kentucky. Led by Sister Euphrasia Stafford, the mission to provide compassionate care to the underserved is still carried out today. Saint Joseph Hospital holds over two dozen national ranks and recognitions and is recognized as a 2024 Best Place to Work in Kentucky.
Saint Joseph is part of CommonSpirit Health, a non-profit, Catholic health system dedicated to advancing health for all people. With approximately 175,000 team members and 25,000 physicians and advanced practice clinicians.
Our commitment to serve the common good is delivered through the dedicated work of thousands of physicians, advanced practice clinicians, nurses, and staff; through clinical excellence delivered across a system of 140 hospitals and more than 2,200 care centers serving 24 states.
Job Summary and Responsibilities
As a Physicist, you will be a central figure responsible for conducting advanced research, developing innovative theories, and applying fundamental physics principles to solve complex scientific and technological challenges. You will play a vital role in advancing knowledge and fostering discovery.
Every day, you will meticulously design and execute experiments, collect and analyze complex data, develop and validate theoretical models, and present findings clearly. You will also collaborate extensively with multidisciplinary teams, utilize advanced tools, and continuously strive to push boundaries in your specialized area.
To be successful in this role, you will combine a Ph.D. in Physics or a related field, a proven track record of significant research, and exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills. You will demonstrate a meticulous approach to scientific inquiry, strong communication, and thrive in a dynamic, intellectually stimulating environment dedicated to groundbreaking innovations.
  • Performance specification, acceptance testing, and commissioning of new equipment.
  • Development and maintenance of quality assurance programs for all treatment modalities, localization procedures, and computational equipment to assure that patients receive prescribed doses within acceptable degrees of accuracy.
  • Maintenance of all instrumentation required for calibration of sources, measurement of radiation and calibration of doses.
  • First-order maintenance of treatment units in conjunction with the service technician.

***Sign On Bonus up to $25,000 and Educational Assistance (Student Loan Payback) up to $24,000 for Eligible Hires***
Job Requirements
Required
  • The clinical medical physicist should have a B.S. degree in physics or equivalent, upon hire and
  • a graduate degree (M.S. of PhD) in medical physics, upon hire
  • None, upon hire

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