Physical Scientists, All Other
Physical scientists not classified in other categories conduct research and analysis in specialized areas of physical science. They work in laboratories, research facilities, universities, and government agencies, designing experiments, collecting data, and publishing findings. Their work spans emerging or niche fields within physics, chemistry, astronomy, and related disciplines.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against physical scientists, all other and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves laboratory work, data analysis, and documentation. Scientists design and run experiments, troubleshoot equipment, record observations, and analyze results using specialized software. They attend meetings with colleagues to discuss findings, write reports or grant proposals, and review scientific literature. Some time is spent maintaining instruments, preparing materials, and collaborating with other research teams.
Who this work suits
You do well in this work if you have strong analytical and problem-solving skills and curiosity about how the physical world works. You tend to be detail-oriented, patient with complex processes, and comfortable working independently or as part of a research team to pursue scientific questions.
What it takes
Who is hiring
Openings right now
- General Engineer/ Physical Scientist · National Nuclear Security Administration · Los Alamos, New Mexico · $90479–$203388
- Physical Scientist - Direct Hire Authority · National Park Service · Orick, California · $35.78–$46.52
- SUPERVISORY INTERDISCIPLINARY LIFE SCIENTIST/ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEER/PHYSICAL SCIENTIST · Naval Air Systems Command · Naval Air Station San Diego, California · $121585–$158062
- Research Physical Scientist · National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration · Multiple Locations · $106437–$192694
- Life Scientist/Environmental Engineer/Physical Scientist · Environmental Protection Agency · Denver, Colorado · $118675–$154280
- Supervisory Physical Scientist · Geological Survey · Multiple Locations · $147945–$197200
- Direct Hire Public Notice - Health Physicist/Physical Scientist · Nuclear Regulatory Commission · Multiple Locations · $86844–$158322
- Supervisory Environmental Engineer/Physical Scientist · Environmental Protection Agency · Multiple Locations · $131342–$197200
Openings are read from employers’ own career pages and public job boards and change daily. Search all openings (free account) to filter by distance, pay and how well you qualify.
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $124,590 | $156,730 | $185,220 | 790 |
| Minnesota | $81,780 | $147,890 | $176,440 | 540 |
| North Dakota | $88,990 | $147,650 | $147,920 | 70 |
| Maryland | $93,620 | $141,290 | $185,220 | 1,810 |
| South Carolina | $107,430 | $141,130 | $161,890 | 70 |
| Massachusetts | $104,600 | $138,380 | $158,630 | 350 |
| Georgia | $106,460 | $137,680 | $171,180 | 1,020 |
| Alabama | $117,060 | $135,350 | $166,280 | 140 |
| Pennsylvania | $107,410 | $134,780 | $166,590 | 460 |
| Colorado | $108,680 | $134,440 | $169,170 | 710 |
| Washington | $112,400 | $133,980 | $158,620 | 450 |
| Florida | $106,220 | $131,690 | $178,150 | 340 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Benefits Professional (CBP) — WorldatWork
- Certified Defense All-Source Analysis (CDASA) — Defense Intelligence Agency PMO
- Certified Remote Sensing Technologist — American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing - Imaging & Geospatial Information Society
- ArcGIS API for JavaScript 19-001 (EAJS 19-001) — Environmental Systems Research Institute
- Enterprise Geodata Management Professional 2201 (EGMP) — Environmental Systems Research Institute
- Enterprise System Design Professional 2201 (ESDP) — Environmental Systems Research Institute
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against physical scientists, all other and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 19-2099.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.