I think you’re really cool, so let’s find you a job. There are several famous, high profile physicists who have changed our perception of how the universe works. Maybe this is your future (I hope it is), so in the meantime it’s important that you don’t waste away on a diet of Ramen noodles. Or maybe you like physics, but you’d like to use your analytical mind to tackle things besides the stars for a while. Either way, here are some ideas for jobs you can get with your bachelor’s degree, plus an extra special section on future career prospects.
Manufacturing Project Manager
If you’d like a break from crunching numbers, consider one of many management roles that will be available to you with your physics background. Although project managers for manufacturing companies aren’t doing a lot of hands-on design work, it is still crucial that they understand the science behind the products. You will be a natural fit for the position.
Apply at: Manufacturing companies
Health Physicist
Use your knowledge of physics to help with medical equipment. More specifically, radiation technology. You might run labs, oversee patient safety and make sure equipment is up to code.
Apply at: Hospitals/clinics
Sales Engineer
Expensive scientific equipment has to be sold by someone who can field questions from potential customers. In fact, unlike many sales positions, this job will require a B.S. in physics. Bonus: you’ll get to make a ton of contacts at labs and other potential places of future employment.
Apply at: Scientific manufacturing companies
Technical Services Analyst (Problem Solver)
I don’t know if you’ve noticed, but often times technology doesn’t work the way that it should. Many businesses rely on databases, technical systems and networks- and they need someone to fix them when they go wrong. Why not hire IT folk? Your background in physics gives you more widely applicable problem solving skills and an edge in the mechanical side of problem solving.
Apply at: Basically everywhere, but especially businesses with a hefty online component
Seismic Imager
If you have any geophysical tendencies, this is the job for you. You will take seismic measurements, analyze data and create visual aids for recommendations to a team of engineers or other scientists.
Apply at: Oil and natural gas companies
Technical Artist
Every time an animated character throws a ball, it takes physics to make the animation look right. This is where you come in. Technical artists use math and physics in order to construct life-like animations. You will provide technical support for everything from the acceleration of gravity to bodily proportions on characters.
Apply at: Animation studios, video game companies
For reach jobs this week, I would seriously encourage you to take a look at the Society for Physics Students (SPS) International’s list of “Hidden Physicists” profiles. These profiles spotlight people with a degree in physics and careers in everything from religion to medicine to informatics. These real-life stories give examples of the meandering and interesting paths your career as a physicist can take. The interviewees talk about everything from their starting job to their education to where they are now. They are some seriously interesting people. Enjoy, and good luck!
What major should we look at next? Leave a request below, or send me a tweet: @ithinkther4iamb #lovemymajor
IMAGE: Courtesy of Flixx Studios
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