Physicists conduct theoretical and applied research to extend knowledge of natural phenomena and to develop new processes and devices in fields such as electronics, communications, power generation and distribution, aerodynamics, optics and lasers, remote sensing, biotechnology, medicine and health. They are employed by electronic, electrical and aerospace manufacturing companies, telecommunications companies, power utilities, university and government research laboratories, hospitals, and by a wide range of other processing, manufacturing, and research and consulting firms.

Astronomers conduct observational and theoretical research to extend knowledge of the universe. They are employed by government and universities.

• aerospace research scientist
• astronomer
• biophysicist
• communications research scientist
• cosmologist
• electronics research scientist
• molecular biophysicist
• nuclear physicist
• physicist
• physics research scientist

To work in this field, you should be imaginative, patient, persistent, and curious. Mathematical, analytical, and mechanical abilities are essential. You must be able to conduct research, use computers, and perform complex calculations. Communication skills are also important, as scientists often work in teams.

• Physicists usually require a master's or doctoral degree in a field of physics, engineering physics, or in a related discipline.
• Astronomers usually require a master's or doctoral degree in astronomy or in a related discipline.

Although the number of job openings for physicists and astronomers is likely to remain limited, the supply of new people qualified to work in these jobs is also limited by the significant investment in education that is required. Physicists may work closely with and perform some of the duties of engineers. Mobility between specializations within physics and within astronomy is possible with experience as is mobility to the fields of meteorology, geophysics and other fields of science. Progression to management positions is possible with experience.

This is not a large occupation in Nova Scotia so job opportunities may not be that frequent. With a large percent of workers being 55 years of age and older, retirements are expected to be a key contributor to employment opportunities over the coming years. Physicists and Astronomers most commonly work full-time hours. Furthermore, the jobs are typically permanent positions.

The median employment income for 90% of Physicists and Astronomers who worked full-time, year-round in 2015 was $85,616. Across all occupations in Nova Scotia, 59% of those who worked full-time year round had a median employment income of $43,600.
(Source: 2016 Census)

Hourly earnings data are from the Labour Force Survey by Statistics Canada. Data are not available for all occupations. Hourly earnings are calculated based on usual hours worked per week. This is how an annual salary, for instance, gets converted to an hourly rate. The data include full and part-time workers along with new and experienced workers. Self-employed workers are excluded.

Annual employment income data reported in the Work Prospects section, are from the 2011 National Household Survey by Statistics Canada. Much of the data (around 70%) came directly from tax records. The data relates to the year 2010 and includes total wages and salaries and net income from self-employment.

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