Physicists
On the Job
Physicists conduct research on physical phenomena. They use experiments and theories to study physical laws and conditions.
Typical Work Tasks
People who work in this career often:
- Develop theories or models of physical phenomena.
- Research environmental impact of industrial or development activities.
- Analyze geological or geographical data.
- Collaborate on research activities with scientists or technical specialists.
- Advise others on management of emergencies or hazardous situations or materials.
- Develop new or advanced products or production methods.
- Establish standards for products, processes, or procedures.
- Prepare scientific or technical reports or presentations.
- Instruct college students in physical or life sciences.
Typical Working Conditions
- Using e-mail.
- The freedom to determine tasks, priorities, and goals.
- Working indoors in environmentally controlled conditions.
- Freedom to make decisions without supervision.
- Working with a group or team.
- Sitting.
This page includes information from the O*NET 24.2 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.
Source: You can learn about our data sources in the About Us section.