Military Physicists
Military Career
General Information
Description
Physicists analyze and test physical properties of materials, including matter affecting living organisms, and apply results of experiments to the solution of problems. They engage in continuous development and modification to improve performance and suitability of products and production processes.
Explore this career outside the MilitaryWork Environment
Physicists in the military work in a variety of settings, both indoors and outdoors, depending on the area of specialization. Many physicists perform their work in laboratories or offices. Other physicists spend extensive hours outdoors collecting and analyzing data in the field. Although they observe strict safety precautions, some physicists 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
Physicists in the Military
1,840
Salary
Salary Information
Median Military Salary This is the median, or the midpoint, of the salary range for this career.
$110,021
Military Salary Range Salary varies based on years of service, degree level, special pays, family status and location. Learn more about Military benefits.
$55,711 - $258,515
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.
-
Doctoral degree 49%
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Post-doctoral training 39%
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Post-master's certificate 8%
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Bachelor's degree 3%
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High school 0%
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Some college 0%
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Master's degree 0%
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Associate's degree 0%
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Post baccalaureate 0%
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Less than high school 0%
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First professional degree 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 physicists primarily consists of classroom instruction and on-the-job learning in various training environments. Like other officers, they complete a comprehensive training program covering responsibilities, military structure and etiquette, traditions, and leadership development.
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
Knowledge
- Physics
- Mathematics
- Engineering and Technology
- Computers and Electronics
- Education and Training
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