This occupation is part of the Life, Physical, and Social Science cluster
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About the Job
Conduct research into physical phenomena, develop theories on the basis of observation and experiments, and devise methods to apply physical laws and theories.
It is also Called
- Aerodynamicist
- Aerophysicist
- Astrophysicist
- Atmospheric Physicist
- Atomic Spectroscopist
- Biophysics Scientist
- Cloud Physicist
- Consultant Electronics
- Electro Optical Engineer
- Electro-Optical Engineer
What They Do
- Perform complex calculations as part of the analysis and evaluation of data, using computers.
- Describe and express observations and conclusions in mathematical terms.
- Analyze data from research conducted to detect and measure physical phenomena.
- Report experimental results by writing papers for scientific journals or by presenting information at scientific conferences.
- Design computer simulations to model physical data so that it can be better understood.
- Collaborate with other scientists in the design, development, and testing of experimental, industrial, or medical equipment, instrumentation, and procedures.
- Direct testing and monitoring of contamination of radioactive equipment, and recording of personnel and plant area radiation exposure data.
- Observe the structure and properties of matter, and the transformation and propagation of energy, using equipment such as masers, lasers, and telescopes, in order to explore and identify the basic principles governing these phenomena.
- Develop theories and laws on the basis of observation and experiments, and apply these theories and laws to problems in areas such as nuclear energy, optics, and aerospace technology.
- Teach physics to students.
Interests
People who work in this occupation generally have the interest code: IR.
This means people who work in this occupation generally have Investigative interests, but also prefer Realistic environments.
Work Values
People who work in this occupation generally prize Recognition, but also value Working Conditions and Achievement in their jobs.
Things They Need to Know
- Physics - Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, and applications to understanding fluid, material, and atmospheric dynamics, and mechanical, electrical, atomic and sub- atomic structures and processes.
- Mathematics - Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
- English Language - Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
- Engineering and Technology - Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
- Computers and Electronics - Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
Things They Need to Be Able to Do
- Science - Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
- Mathematics - Using mathematics to solve problems.
- Critical Thinking - Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
- Complex Problem Solving - Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
- Reading Comprehension - Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
- Speaking - Talking to others to convey information effectively.
- Active Listening - Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Education Required
Most of these occupations require graduate school. For example, they may require a master's degree, and some require a Ph.D., M.D., or J.D. (law degree).
Wages
In 2012, the average annual wage in California was $106,610.00 with most people making between $57,800.00 and $162,880.00
Outlook
During 2010, this occupation employed approximately 3,300 people in California. It is projected that there will be 3,800 employed in 2020.
This occupation will have about 50 openings due to growth and about 100 replacement openings for approximately 150 total annual openings.
Common College Majors
- Find Institutions Engineering Physics/Applied Physics
- Find Institutions Astrophysics
- Find Institutions Physics, General
- Find Institutions Atomic/Molecular Physics
- Find Institutions Elementary Particle Physics
- Find Institutions Plasma and High-Temperature Physics
- Find Institutions Nuclear Physics
- Find Institutions Optics/Optical Sciences
- Find Institutions Condensed Matter and Materials Physics
- Find Institutions Acoustics
- Find Institutions Theoretical and Mathematical Physics
- Find Institutions Physics, Other
- Find Institutions Health/Medical Physics
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