Social and humanities scientists
£51,621
Average salary
42 hours
Average weekly hours
2.65%
Unemployment rate
Definition: Physical scientists
*SOC Code (Standard Occupational Classification): 2114
Physical scientists study relationships between matter, energy and other physical phenomena, the nature, composition and structure of the Earth and other planetary bodies and forecast weather conditions and electrical, magnetic, seismic and thermal activity.
Common tasks include:
- conducts experiments and tests and uses mathematical models and theories to investigate the structure and properties of matter, transformations and propagations of energy, the behaviour of particles and their interaction with various forms of energy
- uses surveys, seismology and other methods to determine the earth’s mantle, crust, rock structure and type, and to analyse and predict the occurrence of seismological activity
- observes, records and collates data on atmospheric conditions from weather stations, satellites, and observation vessels to plot and forecast weather conditions
- applies mathematical models and techniques to assist in the solution of scientific problems in industry and commerce and seeks out new applications of mathematical analysis
Qualifications
Entrants usually possess a degree, although entry may also be possible with an appropriate BTEC/SQA award. Further specialist training is provided on the job. Higher degrees and professional qualifications are available, and some employers may require a postgraduate qualification.
*Introduced in 1990, SOC is a multi-purpose common classification of occupations in UK. Jobs are defined in terms of skill level and skill content, including qualifications, training and work experience.
Employment status: Physical scientists
Regional employment: Physical scientists
Future employment: Physical scientists
Top 12 industries: Physical scientists
Alternative & related job titles: Physical scientists
Geologist Geophysicist Medical physicist Meteorologist Oceanographer Physicist Seismologist
Equality focus: Physical scientists
Breaking down the official government big data sources by gender, age and region. Hours and pay data based on full time equlivalent roles.
Breakdown by gender
£47,971
Female average annual salary
£52,664
Male average annual salary
39
Female average weekly hours
43
Male average weekly hours
Average pay per hour: Physical scientists
Workforce gender: Physical scientists
Breakdown by region
£56,836
South East (England) - highest annual average salary
£46,407
East Midlands (England) - lowest annual average salary
45
Wales - Highest average weekly hours
39
South East (England) - Lowest average weekly hours
Average pay per week (£): Physical scientists
Average weekly hours by UK region/nation: Physical scientists
Breakdown by age
20 years
Lowest annual salary (£22,421)
years
Highest annual salary (£0) at this age