Conduct research into physical phenomena, develop theories on the basis of observation and experiments, and devise methods to apply physical laws and theories.
Physicists
SOC: 19-2012 O*NET: 19-2012.00
Median Salary
$166,290
per year
Job Growth
➡️ 4%
Average (2024-2034)
Annual Openings
1.7
projected jobs/year
Education Level
Bachelor's degree plus work experience, or graduate degree
Job Zone 5
Conduct research into physical phenomena, develop theories on the basis of observation and experiments, and devise methods to apply physical laws and theories.
Overview
Compensation & Benefits
Salary Distribution by Percentile
Understanding where you might fall in the salary range based on experience and location.
10th
$99,774
25th
$133,032
50th (Median)
$166,290
75th
$199,548
90th
$249,435
Percentile Explained: If you're in the 75th percentile, you earn more than 75% of workers in this occupation. Entry-level positions typically fall in the 10th-25th percentile range, while experienced professionals often reach the 75th-90th percentile.
Typical Benefits Package
Health & Wellness
- ✓Health Insurance
- ✓Dental Insurance
- ✓Vision Insurance
- ✓Mental Health Support
- ✓Wellness Programs
Financial Benefits
- ✓401(k) Retirement Plan
- ✓Employer Match (typically 3-6%)
- ✓Profit Sharing
- ✓Stock Options
- ✓Performance Bonuses
Work-Life Balance
- ✓Paid Time Off (15-25 days)
- ✓Paid Sick Leave
- ✓Flexible Work Arrangements
- ✓Remote Work Options
- ✓Parental Leave
Professional Development
- ✓Tuition Reimbursement
- ✓Professional Certifications
- ✓Conference Attendance
- ✓Training Programs
- ✓Mentorship Opportunities
Note: Benefits vary widely by employer, company size, and location. Large corporations and tech companies often offer more comprehensive packages, while small businesses may offer fewer benefits but more flexibility. Always review the complete compensation package, not just base salary.
Job Market Intelligence
Job Market Intelligence
Medium Demand
Market demand
Medium Risk
Automation risk
Current Employment
National Employment:24,600
10-Year Outlook
Growth Rate:+4%
Annual Openings:1,700
Employment Projections
2024 (Current)24,600
Current
2034 (Projected)25,600
+4%
+1,000
Employment Change
+4%
Growth Rate
10
Year Projection
Growth Category: As fast as average
Key Growth Factors
- •Average growth expected
Top Skills
✓
Science
Science
✓
Reading Comprehension
Reading Comprehension
✓
Mathematics
Mathematics
✓
Speaking
Speaking
✓
Critical Thinking
Critical Thinking
✓
Writing
Writing
✓
Active Learning
Active Learning
✓
Active Listening
Active Listening
✓
Complex Problem Solving
Complex Problem Solving
✓
Learning Strategies
Learning Strategies
Key Knowledge Areas
✓
Physics
✓
Mathematics
✓
Engineering and Technology
✓
Computers and Electronics
✓
English Language
✓
Education and Training
✓
Chemistry
Education & Training
Education Required
Bachelor's degree plus work experience, or graduate degree
Experience Required
Extensive skill, knowledge, and experience needed
Job Training
Extensive training and work experience required