Also known as: Inventor, Physical Scientist, Research Scientist, Wood Technologist
+2.1%
US average: +3.5%
1,400
per year (US)
26,600
in 2025 → 27,100 (2035)
Bachelor's degree
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections; O*NET Bright Outlook.
The job outlook for Physical Scientists is stable, with about 1,400 openings projected each year through 2035. The median annual wage is about $122,570. Many advance by becoming senior researchers, university professors, or R&D directors.
Career ladder
Often before this role
Where it can lead
$122,570
Median annual wage, BLS 2025
Bachelor's Degree
Minimum educational requirement for this position
Based on job level & field
Oceanography, Chemical and Physical
Bachelor • Natural Sciences & Mathematics • 4 years
Condensed Matter and Materials Physics
Bachelor • Natural Sciences & Mathematics • 4 years
Chemical Physics
Bachelor • Natural Sciences & Mathematics • 4 years
Materials Science
Bachelor • Natural Sciences & Mathematics • 4 years
Theoretical and Mathematical Physics
Bachelor • Natural Sciences & Mathematics • 4 years
Materials Chemistry
Bachelor • Natural Sciences & Mathematics • 4 years