Military Physical Scientists
Military Career
General Information
Description
Physical scientists carry out research tasks within a chosen field of study. They conduct experiments or make observations, analyze findings, operate necessary equipment, and develop and test theories.
Explore this career outside the MilitaryWork Environment
Physical scientists in the military work in a variety of settings, both indoors and outdoors, depending on the area of specialization. Many physical scientists perform their work in laboratories or offices. Other physical scientists spend extensive hours outdoors collecting and analyzing data in the field. Although they observe strict safety precautions, some physical scientists may be exposed to hazardous substances.
Workplace at a Glance
What you can expect to experience while on the job
- Responsibility
- Exposure to job hazards
- Physical activity
- Decision making
- Repetitiveness
- Level of competition
- Time pressure
Comparable Industries
- Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics
Military Outlook
Service Branches
Jobs in this career field may be available in other service branches. Call or email a particular branch for more info.
Army
Marine Corps
Navy
Air Force
Coast Guard
Space ForceMilitary Status
- Officer
- Managerial/professional
- College degree required
Military Workforce
Physical Scientists in the Military
2,874
Salary
Salary Information
Median Military Salary This is the median, or the midpoint, of the salary range for this career.
$107,440
Military Salary Range Salary varies based on years of service, degree level, special pays, family status and location. Learn more about Military benefits.
$26,896 - $250,342
What makes up a Military salary?
Military salaries include a lot more than just base pay.
They also offer:
- Housing allowances
- Subsistence allowances
- Special and incentive pays
- Cost-of-living allowances
- Hazardous-duty pay
- Bonuses
Learn more about what goes into a salary with the compensation estimator
Learn more about military insurance and retirement benefits
Education
Most Common Education Levels
People in this career achieve this level of education.
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Bachelor's degree 45%
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Master's degree 27%
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First professional degree 12%
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Post-master's certificate 11%
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Doctoral degree 1%
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Associate's degree 1%
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Post baccalaureate 1%
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High school 0%
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Some college 0%
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Less than high school 0%
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Post-doctoral training 0%
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Post-secondary certificate 0%
Military training
Officers typically enter the Military after they have completed a four-year college degree; enlisted service members can transition to officer positions through a variety of pathways and earn a degree while serving. Job training for physical scientists primarily consists of classroom instruction and on-the-job learning in various training environments, and varies depending on service and specialty. Like other officers, they complete a comprehensive training program covering responsibilities, military structure and etiquette, traditions, and leadership development. Job-specific training content may include: Methods of analyzing weather conditionsIdentification of common weather patternsTechniques and procedures of forecastingChemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and HAZMAT operations
Read MoreSkills at a Glance
Skills helpful in this career
- Verbal skills
- Critical thinking & problem solving
- Equipment operation & maintenance
- Math & science skills
- Technology design & control
- Leadership
Related College Majors
Select major to see colleges that offer it
Knowledge
- Design
- Engineering and Technology
- Customer and Personal Service
- Mathematics
- Computers and Electronics
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