Physicists develop theories that describe the fundamental forces and laws of nature. Most physicists work in research and development. Their work in recent years has contributed to progress in such fields as nuclear energy, electronics, communications, aerospace, and medical instrumentation.
Physicists usually specialize in one branch of the science—elementary particle physics; nuclear physics; atomic, electron, and molecular physics; physics of condensed matter; optics; acoustics; plasma physics; or the physics of fluids.
Thousands of physicists teach or do research in colleges and universities. Private industry employs about 30 percent of all physicists mainly in companies manufacturing chemicals, electrical equipment, aircraft, and missiles. About 20 percent of all physicists work for the federal government, most of them in the Departments of Defense and Commerce and in the National Aeronautics and Space Administration.
Places of Employment and Working Conditions
Physicists are employed in all parts of the country with the heaviest concentrations in industrial areas and areas with large college enrollments.
Physicists usually work in offices and laboratories. They have regular working hours.
Qualifications, Education, and Training
An inquisitive mind, imagination, the ability to think in abstract terms, and mathematical ability are necessary for a physicist.
High school courses in science and mathematics are necessary.
A career in physics usually requires a Ph.D. A bachelor's degree in physics or mathematics is usually the first step followed by a master's degree. Some graduate students are able to work as research assistants while they study for a master's degree and may be hired as instructors while completing the Ph.D. requirements.
Potential and Advancement
There should be good job opportunities through the years to come, particularly for physicists with a Ph.D. Most job openings will occur to replace those who retire or leave the field. Those with only a bachelor's degree in physics may become secondary school teachers if they fulfill state teacher certification requirements.
Physicists advance to more complex tasks as they gain experience and may move up to positions as project leaders or research directors; some advance to top management jobs. Physicists who develop new products often form their own companies.
Salary
As of 2012, physicists earned salaries of $106,000, on average.
Additional Sources of Information
- National Association of Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors
- National Fire Sprinkler Association
- United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipe Fitting Industry of the United States and Canada
