For Educators: Military Resources
Military Physical Scientists
Median Salary
116,294
Workforce Count
2,579
Overview
What are the responsibilities of this role?
Physical scientists carry out research tasks within a chosen field of study. They conduct experiments or make observations, analyze findings, operate necessary equipment, and develop and test theories.
What is the work environment like?
Physical scientists in the military work in a variety of settings, both indoors and outdoors, depending on the area of specialization. Many physical scientists perform their work in laboratories or offices. Other physical scientists spend extensive hours outdoors collecting and analyzing data in the field. Although they observe strict safety precautions, some physical scientists may be exposed to hazardous substances.
How many people have this role in the Military?
2,579
Compensation
Understanding How Military Pay is More Than Just a Salary
Base pay is the standard income you’ll earn as a service member, providing a stable foundation to start achieving your financial goals.
- Always fixed based on rank and service time.
- Distributed monthly.
What is the typical salary range?
Salary by Years of Service
$136,889
2 Years
$98,767
6 Years
$136,889
10+ Years
Median Salary
Military Details
Is this a staff or leadership role?
Officers are service members who plan, direct operations and manage enlisted personnel, developing a broad range of leadership-related skills.
Learn More About Enlisted and Officer PathsWhat does the training for this role entail?
Job training for physical scientists primarily consists of classroom instruction and on-the-job learning in various training environments, and varies depending on service and specialty. Like other officers, they complete a comprehensive training program covering responsibilities, military structure and etiquette, traditions, and leadership development. Job-specific training may include:
- Methods of analyzing weather conditions
- Identification of common weather patterns
- Techniques and procedures of forecasting
- Chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and HAZMAT operations
Education
What level of education do professionals in this role have?
Which college majors best prepare you for this role?
- Physics, General
- Health/Medical Physics
- Engineering Physics/Applied Physics
- Astrophysics
- Optics/Optical Sciences
- Physics, Other
- Physics and Astronomy
- Nuclear Physics
- Theoretical and Mathematical Physics
- Atomic/Molecular Physics
- Acoustics
- Elementary Particle Physics
- Condensed Matter and Materials Physics
Learn About How Military Can Pay for 100% of your College Degree
The Military has several programs that cover college costs — so you can pursue your education with little to no debt.
Learn More About Paying For CollegeSkills and Interest
What knowledge is essential to bring to the table?
- Physics
- Mathematics
- Engineering and Technology
- Computers and Electronics
- Education and Training
What personality traits help people thrive in this role?
Investigative
You love figuring out how things work and researching subjects that interest you.
Realistic
You love hands-on work and solving practical problems — like fixing things and building stuff.
Conventional
You like structure, staying organized, and working with systems to get things done efficiently.
RIASEC represents six broad interest areas—Realistic, Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising, and Conventional—helping individuals identify careers that match their skills and preferences.
Take the RIASEC Test