Where can I find non-academic jobs for physics graduates?

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on the job prospects for physics graduates seeking non-academic careers. Participants highlight various industries where physics skills are applicable, particularly in aerospace and government positions. The American Institute of Physics (AIP) statistics indicate that a significant percentage of physics graduates remain in their first career-path job for several years. Additionally, the conversation emphasizes the importance of relevant skills over advanced degrees, noting that a Bachelor's or Master's degree may be more advantageous in certain job markets compared to a PhD.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of physics applications in engineering and technology.
  • Familiarity with job search platforms like USAJOBS for government positions.
  • Knowledge of the AIP employment statistics and trends.
  • Awareness of the differences in job market expectations for Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD holders.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research aerospace industry job openings and requirements for physics graduates.
  • Explore government job listings on USAJOBS using 'physics' as a keyword.
  • Investigate the role of physics graduates in national laboratories such as Fermilab and Argonne.
  • Learn about the skills needed for programming in the gaming industry, particularly physics-related roles.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics graduates (BS, MA, PhD) exploring career options outside academia, as well as career advisors and industry recruiters looking to understand the value of physics education in various job markets.

  • #31
HonkyTonk said:
My question remains: how do I find a company looking for my particular experience?

Headhunters are invaluable for finding matches for technical positions in industry, especially when you don't have a standard background and degree.

You didn't say what your background is (or if you did, I didn't see it), but I work at a national laboratory (Livermore), and there are basically no positions available for BS physics graduates except "super technician". A masters might, in some cases, get you a research position but it's rare - almost all professional scientists are Ph.D's. It's probably harder to get a job with a M.S. than with a B.S. - you're not quite qualified for a research position, but you're overqualified for "super technician".

I've also worked in industry, and there are definitely jobs for Ph.D. physicists in the semiconductor industry, but they tend to want to see industry experience - at the very least, a strong motivation to do well and a strong interest in applied physics. I'm not sure about lower degrees (I was hired as a Ph.D.).
 

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