Physics

Science is one of the fastest growing and largest fields in the American economy. It is also the most widely spread field. There are many branches of science, they are all fascinating in their own way. Physics is the most interesting in my opinion, just because it is the only field that strives to explain how the universe works using the universal language of math. There are many facts that you will need or want to know in order to obtain a job in this field. They are, but are not limited, to the job tasks that will be required, the many locations that you will be working in, the education requirements, the benefits that you will receive, and what unions and/or associations you will have the opportunity to join.

A job in the field of physics requires that you complete certain job tasks. The duties that are required vary depending on the position you hold in the firm. Physicists usually specialize in theoretical research or experimental research. They can apply principles to theoretical areas such as the nature of time and the origin of the universe, or they can apply the same principles to practical areas such as the development of advanced materials, electronics, optics, and medical equipment. Basically a physicist is a scientist that studies the structure of the universe and the interaction between matter and energy. We seek to understand how everything works on all possible levels, mainly to understand the laws of nature and to learn ways in which these laws may be put to practical use. We continue to discover physical laws and theories that explain gravity, electromagnetism, chemical reactions, the transfer of energy, nuclear reactions, et cetera. We must design and perform experiments using lasers, particle accelerators, mass spectrometers, and other equipment so that we can test and possibly prove these laws to be true or false. Most physicists work in research and development, although a few physicists work in inspection, testing, and other industry related jobs.

Physicists work a wide variety of jobs which means that they also work in a wide variety of environments. We normally work 40 hours a week, but overtime is necessary when we are working on special projects that have a deadline. This is a normal 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. job. We normally work in labs and offices when necessary. We may have to work away from home temporarily at national or international facilities that offer unique equipment that we may need for a special project. Physicists can be employed by high schools and colleges for teaching positions or by the government and industrial labs for research positions.

To excel in the field of physics there are certain traits that you should have that will greatly enhance your chances of success in this field. You should have strong math and computer skills. Along with your mathematical ability, you should also have problem-solving and analytical skills, an inquisitive mind, imagination, and initiative. The degree you have is also an important factor in how you participate in the field. Most jobs in research require a doctoral degree. The lowest degree you can have to be a research physicist is a Masters, although a doctoral is the most common requirement. To obtain a Doctoral degree in physics you have to go to a 4 year university to get a bachelors degree and then you have to go to grad school for another 4 years to get your doctoral. While in graduate school, students choose a specialized field to study for their Ph.D. Most physicists enroll in a post-doctoral program to further their knowledge in their specialized field.

Salary surveys indicate that beginning monthly salaries in private industry

for physicists average about $2,900 per month. They may earn up to $7,100

or more per month. Physicists who work for the federal government are hired

at the GS-9 levels, which starts at $2,521 per month.