Physical Scientists, All Other
SOC Code: 19-2099.00
Life, Physical & Social SciencePhysical Scientists, All Other encompasses a diverse group of scientific professionals who study the physical world but don't fall neatly into standard categories like physics, chemistry, or geology. With a median salary of $117,960, these scientists work across emerging and interdisciplinary fields such as materials science, remote sensing, acoustics, and nanoscience. Their research drives innovation in technology, energy, manufacturing, and environmental science.
Salary Overview
Median
$117,960
25th Percentile
$82,450
75th Percentile
$154,900
90th Percentile
$191,880
Salary Distribution
Job Outlook (2024–2034)
Growth Rate
+0.6%
New Openings
2,000
Outlook
Slower than average
Key Skills
Knowledge Areas
What They Do
- Manage or analyze data obtained from remote sensing systems to obtain meaningful results.
- Analyze data acquired from aircraft, satellites, or ground-based platforms, using statistical analysis software, image analysis software, or Geographic Information Systems (GIS).
- Integrate other geospatial data sources into projects.
- Organize and maintain geospatial data and associated documentation.
- Compile and format image data to increase its usefulness.
- Prepare or deliver reports or presentations of geospatial project information.
- Discuss project goals, equipment requirements, or methodologies with colleagues or team members.
- Process aerial or satellite imagery to create products such as land cover maps.
Tools & Technology
★ = Hot Technology (in-demand)
Education Requirements
Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's Degree
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A Day in the Life
A typical day for a physical scientist varies considerably depending on their specific subdiscipline and work setting. Many begin their mornings reviewing research literature, analyzing data from experiments or simulations, and planning laboratory work. Those in materials science might spend hours preparing and testing new compounds or alloys, using sophisticated instruments like electron microscopes or spectrometers. Remote sensing scientists may analyze satellite imagery and geospatial data using specialized software platforms. Collaboration is central to the work, with team meetings, interdepartmental consultations, and discussions with engineers or product developers occurring regularly. Writing research papers, grant proposals, and technical reports consumes a significant portion of time. Some physical scientists split their day between laboratory bench work and computational modeling, while others in applied roles work directly with manufacturing or quality assurance teams.
Work Environment
Physical scientists work in a wide range of environments depending on their specialization. Laboratory settings are common, equipped with sophisticated analytical instruments, testing equipment, and controlled conditions for experimentation. Government research facilities and national laboratories offer state-of-the-art equipment and collaborative research opportunities. Corporate research and development centers provide applied science environments focused on product innovation. Academic settings combine research with teaching responsibilities and mentoring graduate students. Some physical scientists conduct fieldwork, collecting samples or making observations in outdoor environments ranging from remote wilderness to industrial sites. Office environments are prevalent for those focused on computational modeling, data analysis, or administrative duties. Safety protocols in labs may require protective equipment, and work with hazardous materials or radiation demands careful adherence to safety regulations.
Career Path & Advancement
Most positions in this category require at minimum a bachelor's degree in a physical science discipline, though research and senior roles typically demand a master's or doctoral degree. Undergraduate education provides foundational knowledge in physics, chemistry, mathematics, and computer science. Graduate programs allow specialization in emerging interdisciplinary areas such as nanoscience, photonics, acoustics, or geoinformatics. Postdoctoral research positions are common stepping stones for those pursuing academic or senior research careers. Early career scientists often begin as research associates or laboratory technicians before advancing to independent researcher or principal investigator roles. Career progression may lead to positions such as research director, department head, or chief scientist. Some physical scientists transition into industry from academia, leveraging their specialized knowledge for product development or consulting roles.
Specializations
The breadth of specializations within this category reflects the vast scope of physical science. Materials scientists investigate the properties of metals, ceramics, polymers, and composites to develop new materials for manufacturing and technology. Acousticians study sound propagation, noise control, and ultrasonics with applications in audio engineering, medical imaging, and architectural design. Remote sensing scientists use satellite and aerial data to study Earth's surface, atmosphere, and oceans. Nanoscientists work at the atomic and molecular scale to develop materials and devices with novel properties. Photonics specialists study the generation, transmission, and detection of light for applications in telecommunications, medicine, and defense. Cryogenic scientists work with extremely low temperatures to study material properties and enable technologies like superconducting magnets. Forensic scientists with physical science backgrounds apply analytical techniques to criminal investigations.
Pros & Cons
Advantages
- ✓Competitive median salary of $117,960 with potential for higher earnings in specialized roles
- ✓Intellectually stimulating work at the frontiers of scientific knowledge
- ✓Diverse specialization options across emerging interdisciplinary fields
- ✓Opportunities in government, academia, and private sector research
- ✓Contributions to meaningful innovations in technology and sustainability
- ✓Access to cutting-edge laboratory equipment and research facilities
- ✓Strong international collaboration opportunities and travel
Challenges
- ✗Advanced degrees typically required for research and senior positions
- ✗Highly competitive academic job market with limited tenured positions
- ✗Grant funding pressures can create job instability in research roles
- ✗Specialized skills may limit job mobility across industries
- ✗Publishing pressure in academic settings can be stressful
- ✗Some positions require working with hazardous materials or radiation
- ✗Pace of research progress can be slow with delayed gratification
Industry Insight
The field of physical science continues evolving rapidly as interdisciplinary research tackles increasingly complex global challenges. Advances in nanotechnology and advanced materials are driving innovation in electronics, energy storage, and biomedical devices. Quantum science and quantum computing represent frontier areas attracting significant government and private investment. Remote sensing and geospatial science are expanding with the proliferation of satellite constellations and drone technology for environmental monitoring and disaster response. Sustainability-focused research in clean energy, carbon capture, and recyclable materials is a growing priority for both public and private sectors. Artificial intelligence and machine learning are transforming how physical scientists analyze data, predict material properties, and design experiments. The job market remains competitive for academic positions but shows steady demand in government laboratories and the private sector, particularly in defense, semiconductor, and energy industries.
How to Break Into This Career
Entering this field starts with building a strong foundation in mathematics, physics, and chemistry during undergraduate studies. Gaining laboratory experience through internships, research assistantships, or cooperative education programs is essential for developing practical skills. Many entry-level positions at government agencies or industrial labs accept candidates with bachelor's degrees, particularly in applied roles. For research-focused careers, pursuing a graduate degree and publishing research papers establishes credibility in the field. Networking at professional conferences through organizations such as the American Physical Society or the Materials Research Society opens doors to opportunities. Developing computational skills in programming languages like Python, MATLAB, or specialized simulation software enhances employability. Students should seek mentorship from established scientists and consider interdisciplinary coursework that bridges traditional boundaries between physical science disciplines.
Career Pivot Tips
Professionals from engineering disciplines find natural pathways into physical science roles, as strong analytical and mathematical skills transfer directly. Software developers and data scientists can leverage their computational expertise for scientific computing and simulation roles within physical science research. Laboratory technicians in chemistry or biology can broaden their scope by gaining additional training in physical characterization techniques. Teachers with science backgrounds can transition into applied research or science communication roles within the broader physical sciences. Military veterans with experience in technical fields such as electronics, weapons systems, or nuclear operations possess relevant practical knowledge. Environmental professionals can pivot toward remote sensing or geophysical science roles by building skills in geospatial analysis. Patent examiners and technical writers with science backgrounds may find opportunities in research administration or science policy within physical science organizations.