Develops analytical methodologies and techniques to investigate the structure and properties of matter, the relationships between matter and energy, and other physical phenomena; tests the reliability of these methodologies and techniques by performing tests and experiments under various conditions; prepares scientific papers and reports, or supervises their preparation; supervises and coordinates the work of technicians and technologists; may specialise in one or more branches of physics such as electrical, luminescent, mechanical, magnetic, radioactive, molecular, nuclear, ionospheric, atmospheric physics and signal analysis.

• Works indoors in offices and laboratories for universities and research centres.
• Occasionally works outdoors to carry out fieldwork relevant in their specific branch of physics.
• Occasional travel to field sites may be required.
• Work indoors is carried out in adequately heated, ventilated and clean, well maintained office and laboratory workspaces.
• Use of protective clothing and footwear for specific environments may be required due to their hazardous nature.

• Sedentary work with frequent to constant sitting in offices or in laboratories.
• Stands and walks and moves frequently around office and laboratories.
• Lifting, carrying or pulling is not a significant component of the job.
• Bending, squatting or crouching is not a significant component of the job.
• Stretching, twisting, climbing is not a significant component of the job.
• Occasional to frequent repetitive hand and finger movements are required when using hand-held objects and equipment including computers, writing instruments and laboratory equipment.
• Driving of cars is not a significant component of the job but may be required occasionally.
• Mental skills necessary include a high level of cognitive functioning with technical, computing, research, mathematical, communication, interpersonal, organisational, problem solving, critical thinking and decision-making capabilities.

A relevant tertiary qualification or at least five years applicable experience (ANZSCO Skill Level 1). In some instances particular experience and/or on-the-job training may be required.

There are opportunities for flexibility of movement.