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Theoretical Physicist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

... 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 ...

Physicist

Hot Springs, AR ยท 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 ...

Physicist

Stuart, FL ยท On-site

The Medical Physicist supervises the Dosimetrists and Radiation Therapists in treatment planning and devises methods to apply laws and theories of physics to radiation medicine under the direction of ...

Physicist

Beavercreek, OH ยท On-site

$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

Physicist

Jupiter, FL ยท On-site

The Medical Physicist supervises the Dosimetrists and Radiation Therapists in treatment planning and devises methods to apply laws and theories of physics to radiation medicine under the direction of ...

The Medical Physicist supervises the Dosimetrists and Radiation Therapists in treatment planning and devises methods to apply laws and theories of physics to radiation medicine under the direction of ...

Physicist

Jupiter, FL ยท On-site

The Medical Physicist supervises the Dosimetrists and Radiation Therapists in treatment planning and devises methods to apply laws and theories of physics to radiation medicine under the direction of ...

Address theoretical and practical problems of measurements of ionizing radiation under clinical ... Master's degree in medical physics * ABR board eligible * Texas licensure Preferred Job ...

... theories of physics to radiation medicine under the direction of the director of physics by performing the following duties. We are seeking a clinical Medical Physicists to join our team. We have ...

... theories of physics to radiation medicine under the direction of the director of physics by performing the following duties. We are seeking a clinical Medical Physicists to join our team. We have ...

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Theoretical Physicist information

See salary details

$39.5K

$94.8K

$226.5K

How much do theoretical physicist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Theoretical Physicist position, and why are they important?

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.

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.

Is Jeff Bezos a theoretical physicist?

Jeff Bezos is not a theoretical physicist; he is an entrepreneur and the founder of Amazon. Theoretical physicists typically hold advanced degrees in physics and work on abstract scientific concepts, which does not describe Bezos's career. His expertise is in business and technology, not physics research.

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.

Do theoretical physicists get paid well?

Theoretical physicists often earn competitive salaries, especially those working in academia, research institutions, or industry roles such as technology or aerospace companies. Salaries vary based on experience, education level, and location, with advanced degrees like a Ph.D. typically required for higher-paying positions.

Are theoretical physicists in demand?

Theoretical physicists are in moderate demand, primarily within academia, research institutions, and government labs. Employment opportunities depend on funding, research priorities, and the ability to collaborate across disciplines such as mathematics and computer science.
More about Theoretical Physicist jobs
What cities are hiring for Theoretical Physicist jobs? Cities with the most Theoretical Physicist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Theoretical Physicist jobs? The most popular types of Theoretical Physicist jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Theoretical Physicist jobs? The top employers for Theoretical Physicist jobs are:
What states have the most Theoretical Physicist jobs? States with the most job openings for Theoretical Physicist jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Theoretical Physicist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Theoretical Physicist jobs are:
Infographic showing various Theoretical Physicist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $94,805 per year, or $45.6 per hour.
Quantum Theorist, Atomic Physics Focus

Quantum Theorist, Atomic Physics Focus

Atom Computing

Boulder, CO โ€ข On-site

$160K - $185K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

At Atom Computing, we build quantum computers using arrays of optically trapped neutral atoms that will empower customers to achieve unprecedented computational breakthroughs. Join a talented team of scientists, engineers, and business professionals to advance the state-of-the-art in quantum computing.
Atom Computing is seeking a Quantum Theorist to contribute to a variety of projects that help with the development of neutral atom quantum computing. In this role, you'll be working directly with other theorists and experimentalists to model our quantum computers, improve calibration routines, characterize machine performance, and propose methods for their overall advancement. You'll work within an expert team of atomic physics and quantum error correction theorists that shapes future system design and supports experimental progress.
This role reports to the Quantum Theory Manager within Atom Computing's Applications & Theory department. Applications will be considered for our Berkeley, CA or Boulder, CO office.
Job Responsibilities
  • Conduct independent and/or collaborative theoretical and computational projects that drive the understanding and development of neutral atom quantum computers.
  • Contribute to the development and operation of a variety of atomic physics simulations and translate them into high-quality, maintainable software solutions.
  • Collaborate with Experimentalists, Quantum Engineers, Error Correction Theorists, and AMO Theorists to model experimental results, develop noise models for quantum hardware, and contribute to the design of neutral-atom quantum computers.
  • Write clean, well-tested, and documented code in multiple languages (preferrably Python, Julia, or C++).

Experience & Education
  • PhD in Physics, Mathematics, Engineering, Computer Science or a related field.

Qualifications
  • Deep understanding of atomic, molecular and optical physics. Experience working with or modeling of Rydberg atoms is particularly appreciated.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills, with published results within their field of research.
  • Technical expertise spanning atomic structure, quantum optics, and qubit control, e.g. using QutiP, QuantumOptics.jl, or equivalent.
  • Familiarity with modern software development practices: version control, unit testing, continuous integration, and documentation.
  • Temperamentally suited to work at a fast-growing startup: self-motivated, humble, driven, collaborative, with a high tolerance for ambiguity and uncertainty.

Atom Computing provides a wide variety of perks and benefits, including fully paid medical, dental, and vision insurance for our employees and their dependents. Additionally, unlimited paid time off, 401K company matching, short- and long-term disability, FSA, dependent care benefits, and life insurance. We also offer drinks, snacks, and catered team lunches in our offices, every day!
The base salary range for this position is between $160,000 - $185,000, commensurate with experience. In addition to salary, we offer an annual bonus and equity in the company.