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Applied Geophysics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Geoscientist I-Tucson, AZ

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$50K - $70K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Geophysics, Geosciences, Geology, or Earth Science related Engineering discipline with 2-4 years of applied experience, inclusive of geophysical field work utilizing data ...

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Applied Geophysics information

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How much do applied geophysics jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for applied geophysics in the United States is $19.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $22.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

In applied geophysics, high-paying roles such as freelance consultants or specialized contractors can earn around $10,000 per month, especially with extensive experience and expertise in seismic data analysis, remote sensing, or subsurface modeling. These positions often require strong technical skills, industry certifications, and the ability to work independently or on contract basis, rather than formal degrees.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

In applied geophysics, high-paying roles such as senior exploration geophysicists, reservoir engineers, or consulting specialists can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership responsibilities. These positions often require advanced degrees, industry certifications, and experience in the energy or mineral sectors, and may include bonuses or profit-sharing components.

What jobs can you get with geophysics?

Applied geophysicists can work in industries such as oil and gas exploration, environmental consulting, mineral exploration, and earthquake hazard assessment. Common roles include geophysicist, exploration geophysicist, seismic interpreter, and geophysical data analyst, often requiring knowledge of seismic imaging, geophysical software, and field equipment. These jobs typically involve data collection, analysis, and interpretation to locate natural resources or assess geological hazards.

What is the difference between Applied Geophysics vs Geophysical Technician?

AspectApplied GeophysicsGeophysical Technician
CredentialsBachelor's or higher in geophysics, geology, or related fieldAssociate's or bachelor's in geophysics, geology, or related field
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, data analysis, project designField data collection, equipment setup, data recording
Industry UsageResearch, exploration, environmental studiesSurveying, data acquisition, supporting geophysical projects
Common Search IntentUnderstanding geophysical roles, career pathsFieldwork tasks, job requirements in geophysics

Applied Geophysics involves analyzing data, designing surveys, and interpreting results, often requiring advanced education. Geophysical Technicians focus on data collection and equipment operation in the field. Both roles are essential in geophysical projects but differ mainly in responsibilities and educational requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by applied geophysicists during fieldwork, and how can they be managed?

Applied geophysicists often encounter challenges such as difficult terrain, unpredictable weather, and equipment malfunctions during fieldwork. To manage these, teams typically conduct thorough site assessments, ensure redundancy in critical equipment, and maintain flexible schedules to adapt to changing conditions. Strong communication with other scientists and local stakeholders is essential for troubleshooting and staying aligned with project goals. Safety protocols and regular training also play a key role in overcoming fieldwork obstacles and ensuring successful data collection.

What is the highest paid geophysicist?

The highest paid geophysicists typically work in the oil and gas industry, with senior roles such as lead geophysicists or exploration managers earning salaries exceeding $150,000 annually, and some top professionals earning over $200,000 with extensive experience and advanced skills in seismic interpretation and geophysical software. Salaries vary based on experience, location, and industry sector, with those in managerial or specialized technical roles earning the most.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Applied Geophysicist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Applied Geophysicist, you need strong analytical skills, a background in geology or earth sciences, and typically a degree in geophysics or a related field. Familiarity with geophysical survey equipment, data processing software (such as SeisImager or Oasis montaj), and GIS platforms is essential, along with relevant certifications like Professional Geophysicist (P.Geo.) in some regions. Excellent problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and strong communication skills help you effectively interpret data and present findings to both technical and non-technical stakeholders. These combined skills ensure accurate subsurface analysis and successful collaboration on resource exploration, environmental, or engineering projects.

What is applied geophysics?

Applied geophysics is the use of physical methods to study the subsurface of the Earth for practical purposes such as locating natural resources, investigating environmental conditions, and assessing geotechnical sites. Techniques like seismic, magnetic, gravity, and electrical methods are commonly used to gather information about what lies beneath the surface without having to dig or drill extensively. Professionals in this field work in industries such as oil and gas exploration, mining, environmental consulting, and civil engineering projects. Applied geophysicists interpret data to help make informed decisions about land use, resource management, and environmental protection.
More about Applied Geophysics jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Applied Geophysics jobs? The most popular types of Applied Geophysics jobs are:
What states have the most Applied Geophysics jobs? States with the most job openings for Applied Geophysics jobs include:

Munitions Response Quality Control Geophysicist

Bristol Environmental Solutions, LLC

Wilmington, NC • On-site

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Bristol Environmental Solutions, LLC is seeking a qualified Munitions Response Quality Control Geophysicist in our Golden, CO; Wilmington, NC; or Marysville, WA location. This position can also be remote. This position is responsible for conducting the duties of a Quality Control (QC) Geophysicist as part of a munitions response geophysical program. The geophysical program will be an integral part of munitions response projects that involve the use of digital geophysical technology and advanced geophysical classification (AGC). The individual will be familiar with AGC data collection, data processing, geophysical survey design and management, and data usability assessments.

In this role, the individual will be responsible for leading all geophysical planning aspects of a project, as part of a team, including staffing, scope development, logistical planning, document preparation, scheduling, client interface, meeting presentations, contributing to the technical aspects of subcontractor and equipment selection, and reporting.

The successful candidate will have demonstrated managerial, leadership, organizational, analytical, interpersonal, technical, and decision-making skills and will have a deep understanding and applied experience in the use of geophysical mapping techniques and an intimate understanding of current technologies available in the munitions response industry.

Major Responsibilities
  • Support Bristol in successfully obtaining and maintaining Department of Defense Advanced Geophysical Classification Accreditation Program (DAGCAP) certification.
  • Responsible for reviewing, updating, and maintaining Bristol field Standard Operating Procedures related to geophysical operations as new methods are innovated or project needs, regulations, guidance, or contract requirements change.
  • Develop and/or expand operating procedures to standardize data management, processing, analysis, storage and reporting across multiple projects.
  • Attend site walks, project kickoffs, site audits, and planning meetings throughout the project lifecycle to support PMs in presenting project approaches.
  • Ensure Bristol UXO personnel and subcontractors understand their role and specific job duties during planning and execution phases, to ensure project needs and objectives are met.
  • Support development of proposals, including level of effort estimation, technical approach scoping, risk identification, scheduling, and field project support.
  • Review contract documents to determine appropriate geophysical methods for completion and explain plans and contract terms to administrative and field staff.
  • Develop and/or expand operating procedures to standardize data management, processing, analysis, storage and reporting across multiple projects.
  • Coordinate with PMs, Project Geophysicists, and USACE QA Geophysicist in meeting USACE Quality Assurance requirements.
  • Support PMs in resolving technical and/or contractual issues during planning, field execution, and reporting phases.
  • Lead the overall geophysical QC process during fieldwork.
  • Work with Project Team to design and complete Data Usability Assessments.
  • Coordinate with designated Quality Control and Health & Safety representatives to ensure high quality project delivery and Bristol Code Zero and contract standards are met and are consistent across projects.
  • Review project information reports and other project reporting documents.
  • Proactively support DoD programs and projects and meet project performance objectives.
  • Assist in the final quality and delivery of reports required of the program.
  • Ensure adherence to Bristol’s quality standards in all reports.
  • Contribute to maintaining Bristol’s reputation by ensuring professional, technical, and ethical standards are upheld by all project staff.
  • Assist project managers in developing and maintaining positive client relationships.
  • Travel for meetings and to conduct field projects will be required.
Required Knowledge or Skills
  • Firm grasp of the following concepts and Army guidance documents:
    • Defense Environmental Restoration Program (DERP) and Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) process and phases.
    • Munitions Response Quality Assurance Project Plan (MR-QAPP).
    • Advanced Geophysical Classification Quality Assurance Project Plan (AGC-QAPP).
    • Engineering Manual 200-1-15, Environmental Quality Technical Guidance for Military Munitions Response Actions.
  • Design and placement of the Instrument Verification Strip (IVS) and QC seeds
  • AGC data processing and analysis, demonstrated experience and a high level of proficiency using Geosoft UX-Analyze and other relevant software.
  • AGC data validation and verification.
  • Root cause analysis and implementing corrective actions.
  • Experience managing GPS and geophysical data from field investigations.
  • Experience using geophysical technologies (e.g., Geonics EM61-MK2, Geometrics MetalMapper 2x2, TEMTADS, APEX one-pass system, Gap EOD UltraTEM Screener, Trimble differential GPS units, real-time kinematic systems, etc.).
  • Proven ability to utilize critical thinking skills required to identify/shape opportunities.
  • Experience with level of effort determination and equipment/subcontractor selection.
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills to interact with all levels of personnel – executive management, management, technical and administrative.
  • Excellent organizational skills with the ability to work on multiple projects of varying complexity simultaneously.
  • Maintaining established contract teaming relationships.
Education

Bachelor’s degree in geology, geophysics or closely related field or equivalent experience and proficiency with geophysical methods related to munitions response.

Experience

Must have experience supporting a company to successfully obtain DAGCAP certification. 8 years of recent and directly relevant industry experience in data management and applied geophysics supporting munitions response. 3 years experience in Advanced Geophysical Classification.

Special Requirements/Certifications

Master’s Degree in a scientific discipline, Computer, Environmental Science, Geology, Geophysics, Biology, Chemistry or Engineering and 10 years of recent and directly relevant industry experience in data management and applied geophysics supporting munitions response preferred.

Physical Requirements
  • Moderate physical workload.
  • Employee must be able to exert up to 20 pounds of force frequently and up to 10 pounds of force constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including the human body.
  • Required to have close visual acuity to perform activities such as viewing a computer terminal and extensive reading.
  • Specific physical requirements include, but are not limited to, hiking, operating geophysical instruments in person-portable mode, walking, talking, hearing and performing repetitive motions.
  • The worker is not subject to adverse environmental conditions.
  • Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.