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Assistant Seismic Observer Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Marine Geoscientist

Tampa, FL · On-site

$31.25 - $36.06/hr

Seismic reflection systems (single-channel and multi-channel preferred) * Marine vibracore systems ... Mentor junior staff and assist with training and development in both field and office settings

Assistant Seismic Observer information

What is an assistant seismic observer?

Assistant Seismic Observers are entry-level professionals who assist in monitoring and recording seismic activity, such as earthquakes or man-made vibrations, using specialized equipment. They support senior seismologists or seismic observers by setting up instruments, collecting and analyzing data, and maintaining equipment in the field or laboratory. This role is critical in helping to ensure accurate data collection for seismic studies, which can be used in earthquake research, oil and gas exploration, and environmental monitoring. Assistant Seismic Observers may also assist with data processing and reporting for their teams.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an assistant seismic observer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Assistant Seismic Observer, you need a solid understanding of geophysical principles, basic data collection, and seismic survey methods, typically supported by a relevant science degree or field experience. Familiarity with seismic data acquisition systems, GPS equipment, and specialized software like SeisImager or Refraction Microtremor is common. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication are vital soft skills for accurate data gathering and field safety. These abilities ensure the reliability of seismic data, efficient field operations, and successful collaboration within geophysical teams.

What is the difference between Assistant Seismic Observer vs Seismic Technician?

AspectAssistant Seismic ObserverSeismic Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma, training in seismic data collectionHigh school diploma, technical training or certification in geophysics or related field
Work EnvironmentField sites, outdoor seismic survey locationsField and laboratory settings, equipment maintenance
Employer & IndustryGeophysical survey companies, oil & gas industryGeophysical service providers, energy sector
Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level seismic rolesMore technical, requires specialized training

The Assistant Seismic Observer primarily assists in seismic data collection and operates in outdoor survey environments. In contrast, Seismic Technicians have more technical responsibilities, including equipment maintenance and data analysis. Both roles are essential in geophysical surveys, but Seismic Technicians typically require additional training and certifications.

What are the typical responsibilities of an assistant seismic observer during a field survey?

As an Assistant Seismic Observer, you will primarily support senior observers and field crews in the collection and monitoring of seismic data. Your daily responsibilities often include setting up and maintaining seismic equipment, ensuring accurate placement of geophones and cables, and assisting with troubleshooting any technical issues that arise in the field. You’ll work closely with geophysicists, surveyors, and other team members to ensure data quality and adherence to safety protocols. This role is hands-on and frequently requires travel to remote locations, making adaptability and teamwork essential skills.
What are popular job titles related to Assistant Seismic Observer jobs in Florida? For Assistant Seismic Observer jobs in Florida, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Florida are hiring for Assistant Seismic Observer jobs? Cities in Florida with the most Assistant Seismic Observer job openings:

Marine Geoscientist

APTIM

Tampa, FL • On-site

$31.25 - $36.06/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago


APTIM rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Job Overview:
APTIM Environmental & Infrastructure, LLC, a leading engineering firm with a global presence and thriving coastal engineering practice, is seeking a Marine Geoscientist to support our offshore survey operations based out of our Tampa, FL or Boca Raton, FL offices.
APTIM performs full-scale marine geophysical and geotechnical surveys in support of coastal restoration, offshore renewable energy development, infrastructure siting, and offshore oil and gas projects. Our geoscientists specialize in high-resolution data acquisition, processing, and interpretation to support seabed characterization, geohazard assessment, mineral resource identification, and engineering design.
The selected candidate will play a primary role in offshore survey execution, including serving as a Field Party Chief (or progressing into that role) for marine geophysical and geotechnical operations. This position is field-intensive, with significant offshore time, and requires strong technical capability, leadership, and a commitment to safety.
Key Responsibilities/Accountabilities:
  • Serve as Offshore Field Party Chief (or directly support in that capacity), responsible for safe and efficient execution of marine survey operations, including:
    • Crew leadership, tasking, and supervision
    • Daily operational planning and troubleshooting
    • Coordination with vessel crew, project managers, and clients offshore
  • Lead and support vessel mobilization and demobilization, including setup and integration of geophysical and geotechnical systems
  • Ensure compliance with APTIM safety policies, including:
    • Leading daily safety briefings and JSAs
    • Enforcing safe work practices
    • Stopping work if unsafe conditions are observed
  • Maintain daily field logs, acquisition reports, and safety documentation
  • Perform real-time QA/QC of geophysical and geotechnical data acquisition
  • Operate and oversee acquisition of marine survey systems, including:
    • Chirp sub-bottom profilers
    • Sidescan sonar
    • Magnetometers
    • Seismic reflection systems (single-channel and multi-channel preferred)
    • Marine vibracore systems and other geotechnical samplers
  • Acquire, process, and interpret integrated geophysical and geotechnical datasets
  • Prepare maps, figures, and technical reports for engineering, regulatory, and scientific applications
  • Support data processing and interpretation workflows using industry-standard software
  • Mentor junior staff and assist with training and development in both field and office settings
  • Support survey planning, logistics, and proposal development as needed

Basic Qualifications:
  • Bachelor of Science degree (or higher) in geology, geophysics, oceanography, or a related field
  • 4+ years of relevant marine geoscience experience
  • Experience supporting marine geophysical surveys using:
    • Chirp sub-bottom profiler
    • Sidescan sonar
    • Magnetometer
  • Experience with marine geotechnical sampling, including vibracores or similar systems
  • Experience with geophysical acquisition and interpretation software (e.g., SonarWiz, Hypack, Discover or equivalent)
  • Strong technical writing and organizational skills
  • Ability and willingness to support extended offshore rotations (typically 10-14 days) in physically demanding environments

Preferred
  • Prior experience acting as a Field Party Chief or senior field lead on offshore surveys
  • Experience with multi-channel seismic acquisition and interpretation
  • Experience with survey planning and vessel mobilization
  • Familiarity with GIS and mapping software (e.g., ArcGIS, AutoCAD, Surfer)
  • Experience supporting projects involving permitting, routing, or geohazard assessments

Additional Information
  • This position is heavily field-based, with a significant portion of time spent offshore
  • Candidates must be adaptable, safety-focused, and capable of working in dynamic marine environments

About APTIM
APTIM enhances the quality of the environment, wellbeing of people, resilience of communities, and opportunity for employees to make a difference, not just a living. A leading professional solutions firm, we specialize in environmental, sustainability, resilience, and infrastructure solutions. Our team of experts provide these integrated solutions for forward-thinking government agencies, commercial and industrial clients, and energy customers. Together, we create sustainable and resilient communities for all.
What you can expect from APTIM:
  • Work that is worthy of your time and talent
  • Respect and flexibility to live a full life at work and at home
  • Dogged determination to deliver for our clients and communities
  • A voice in making our company better
  • Investment into your personal and professional development

As of the date of this posting, a good faith estimate of the current pay range for this position is $31.25 to $36.06 per hour. Compensation depends on several factors including experience, education, key skills, geographic location of the position, client requirements, external market competitiveness, and internal equity among other employees within APTIM.
Employee Benefits
APTIM Environmental & Infrastructure, LLC is committed to providing an extensive range of benefits that protect and promote the health and financial well-being of our employees and their families through the APTIM Benefits Marketplace https://aptim.makeityoursource.com/.
  • Medical, vision, and dental insurance: Through the marketplace, our employees can choose benefits from five metallic levels and several carriers to find the right benefits that work for them in their location.
  • Company paid and optional Life insurance
  • Short-term and long-term disability insurance
  • Accident, Critical Illness, and Hospital Indemnity coverage
  • Paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave (eligibility based on company policy and applicable law)
  • 401(k) APTIM offers three 401k plans through the Aon Pooled Employer Plan (PEP). The specific plan you are eligible for depends on the business unit you are in. The details of the largest plan are found here:
    • APTIM 401(k) Guide
    • APTIM - Helpful Documents

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