Physicists

Employment for physicists should grow at a faster than average rate from 2023 through 2033, according to the Occupational Outlook Handbook (OOH). Although growth will occur in areas such as educational services, healthcare and social assistance, and scientific research and development, just 1,600 new jobs will be created each year. The OOH says that "deep-space telescope operations and special off-planet missions may require additional astronomers and physicists over the projections decade. However, federal spending is the primary source of physics- and astronomy-related research funds, especially for basic research. Therefore, budgetary constraints may directly impact employment growth."

Competition for positions will be especially keen for physics research positions in colleges and universities and in research centers. A recent increase in the number of undergraduate and graduate degree enrollments in physics programs means there will be more candidates than jobs to fill. Physicists who work in applied research, development, and related fields will have better odds of finding work.