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Chief Geophysicist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

APTIM

Marine Geoscientist

Tampa, FL · On-site

$31.25 - $36.06/hr

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 ...

APTIM

Sr. Marine Geoscientist Project Manager

Tampa, FL · On-site

With a suite of dedicated geophysical instruments, APTIM performs full-scale geophysical surveys in ... Provide leadership, direction and support to offshore field teams and Party Chiefs during survey ...

APTIM

Maritime Archaeologist

Tampa, FL · On-site

... chief or equivalent lead role * Ability to independently develop and defend archaeological interpretations and recommendations * Experience collecting, reviewing and interpreting marine geophysical ...

Tulk LLC

Business Analyst Level 3

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

SFN's mission is to enable GEOINT accuracy through geodetic, geophysical, and photogrammetric ... (CMO) points of contact, Domain Leads, Subject Matter Experts (SMEs), Information Technology ...

IMEG

SUE Field Technician | Manassas, VA

Manassas, VA

$19.75 - $27/hr

... geophysical prospecting for underground utilities, and other crew activities under the leadership of a Crew Chief or Office Coordinator. You'll also gain hands-on exposure to core field workflows ...

IMEG

SUE Field Technician | Manassas, VA

Manassas, VA · On-site

$19.75 - $27/hr

... geophysical prospecting for underground utilities, and other crew activities under the leadership of a Crew Chief or Office Coordinator. You'll also gain hands-on exposure to core field workflows ...

Bateman Civil Survey

SUE Analyst

Apex, NC · On-site

$30/hr

... using geophysical locating equipment. The SUE Analyst will play a critical role in ensuring ... Department Survey Role Land Surveyor/Crew Chief Locations Apex, NC Employment type Full-time

RCM

Tax Accounting Manager and Controller

Houston, TX · On-site

$130K - $170K/yr

... CEO/Founder, EVP-Geology, EVP-Operations, Landman, Geophysicist, Controller, an Oil & Gas Property Manager and a Field Operations Manager who attend to special and unique projects/areas of the CEO ...

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Chief Geophysicist information

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$33K

$124.4K

$200.5K

How much do chief geophysicist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for chief geophysicist in the United States is $124,409.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,000.00 and $146,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Chief Geophysicists face when leading multidisciplinary exploration teams?

Chief Geophysicists often work closely with geologists, engineers, and data analysts to interpret complex subsurface data for resource exploration. One of the main challenges is ensuring clear communication and effective collaboration across these disciplines, as each team member may have different technical backgrounds and priorities. Balancing project timelines, budget constraints, and the need for innovative geophysical techniques also requires strong leadership and strategic decision-making. Addressing these challenges successfully helps drive accurate exploration outcomes and supports career advancement within the organization.

What jobs will no longer exist in 2030?

Chief Geophysicists and similar specialized roles may decline as automation, AI, and advanced data analysis tools increasingly handle tasks traditionally performed by humans. Some manual or routine geophysical survey jobs could be replaced by remote sensing technologies and machine learning algorithms, reducing demand for certain field-based positions. However, roles requiring expert interpretation, decision-making, and integration of complex data will continue to be essential.

What is the highest paid geophysicist?

The highest paid geophysicists typically work in the oil and gas industry, with senior roles such as lead geophysicist or chief geophysicist earning salaries that can exceed $200,000 annually, especially with extensive experience and advanced skills in seismic interpretation and geophysical software. Compensation varies based on industry, location, experience, and company size, with some top professionals earning significantly more through bonuses and profit sharing.

What does a Chief Geophysicist do?

A Chief Geophysicist leads a team of geophysicists and oversees geophysical surveys, analyses, and interpretations for projects such as oil and gas exploration, mining, or environmental studies. They are responsible for designing research methodologies, managing data acquisition, and integrating geophysical data with geological information to guide decision-making. Additionally, they ensure that all work complies with safety and regulatory standards, and often serve as the primary technical advisor for their organization. Chief Geophysicists also mentor junior staff and collaborate with other scientific and engineering teams.

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

Chief Geophysicists in the energy and natural resources sectors can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High-level executives in finance, law, and specialized medical fields also reach this income level, often through bonuses and profit sharing. Such compensation typically requires extensive expertise, certifications, and long-term experience.

Is geophysics well paid?

Chief Geophysicists typically earn high salaries due to their specialized skills and experience, with median annual wages often exceeding $100,000. Compensation can vary based on industry, location, and level of expertise, and professionals in this field often work in the oil and gas, mining, or environmental sectors, sometimes requiring advanced degrees and proficiency with geophysical tools and software.

What is the difference between Chief Geophysicist vs Geophysicist?

AspectChief GeophysicistGeophysicist
Required credentialsBachelor's or Master's in Geophysics, often with leadership experienceBachelor's or Master's in Geophysics or related field
Work environmentLeadership role overseeing teams and projects in exploration or researchFieldwork, data analysis, and modeling in exploration or research settings
Employer usageSenior position in oil & gas, mining, or environmental companiesEntry to mid-level roles in similar industries

The main difference is that a Chief Geophysicist holds a leadership position responsible for strategic planning and team management, while a Geophysicist focuses on data collection, analysis, and technical tasks. The Chief Geophysicist typically has more experience and oversees projects, whereas Geophysicists are more involved in hands-on research and fieldwork.

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

To thrive as a Chief Geophysicist, you need advanced expertise in geophysical data analysis, subsurface modeling, and a relevant degree (often a master's or PhD) in geophysics or a related field. Proficiency with specialized software such as Petrel, GeoFrame, and seismic interpretation tools, as well as familiarity with industry standards and certifications, is essential. Leadership, strategic thinking, and strong communication skills are crucial for guiding teams and presenting findings to stakeholders. These skills are vital to accurately assess exploration opportunities, drive technical excellence, and support organizational decision-making.
More about Chief Geophysicist jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Chief Geophysicist jobs? The most popular types of Chief Geophysicist jobs are:
What states have the most Chief Geophysicist jobs? States with the most job openings for Chief Geophysicist jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Chief Geophysicist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Chief Geophysicist jobs are:
Chief Geophysicist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chief Geophysicist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $124,409 per year, or $59.8 per hour.
Party Chief A

Party Chief A

Oceaneering International, Inc.

Morgan City, LA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago

Oceaneering rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

251st of 418 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

Job Description
The position of Party Chief for Survey Services exists for the purpose of managing and carrying out required tasks in the field for survey projects, as requested by manager or project specific manager, and / or field client representatives for the survey project's field activities. The Party Chief leads and directs the work of others, relying on extensive experience and judgement to plan and accomplish given tasks with a wide degree of creativity and latitude. This position is responsible for assuring that client needs are effectively met regarding field activities, and that all tasks are performed efficiently, responsibly and in accordance with safe work procedures.
The most important and essential function of this position is attitude and includes the following: getting along with co-workers, responding politely to members of the community, working as a team member, functioning well under pressure, responding in a positive manner to supervision, and maintaining inter-office confidentiality.
Offshore position located in the Gulf of Mexico and other remote global locations.
Responsibilities
ESSENTIAL
  • Complying with company safety rules and training
  • Conducting operations safely & reporting any unsafe conditions or practices immediately to his/her supervisor
  • Assist new and fellow employees in performing their work in accordance with safe work procedures
  • Conduct and document daily Job Safety Analysis (JSA) / safety tail gate meetings
  • Managing and carrying out specific job task as requested by client and or project manager
  • Perform field investigation, prepare/review field notes, documenting field requested changes, ensure data quality and collection
  • Responsible for the care and safety of personnel and company equipment.
  • Coordinating and communicating with clients, crew members and project managers
  • Train and adhere to OII, DOTD or other company's specific requirements
  • Training of fellow field personnel
  • Responsible for the direct management of employees and Client relations onboard the vessel.
  • Responsible for sending daily progress reports
  • Responsible for keeping adequate spares onboard the vessel and sending back broken parts to office for repair or replacement.
  • Responsible for overall maintenance of survey gear.
  • Responsible for Quality control of data and ensuring that all data is collected, and backups are made prior to departing job site
  • Required to know all data requirements that are needed for the job.
  • Responsible for ensuring that copies of data are sent to the office.
  • Responsible for coring onboard vessel
  • Required to troubleshoot any problems onboard the vessel as it relates to the job.
  • Required to complete written documentation on all notable events that occurred during their shift, including, but not limited to, downtime, data problems, and weather changes that affected the data quality.
  • Must have a good working relationship with the captain and should meet once a day to discuss operations.
  • Ability to work well with personnel onboard
  • Primary responsibility is participation in hydrographic and geophysical projects.
  • Mobilize, de-mobilize, operate and perform user level maintenance of positioning and geophysical equipment and sensors.
  • Perform with minimal supervision positioning and geophysical equipment and sensors include, but are limited to: Winches, coring equipment, side scan sonar, single beam echo sounders, Multibeam sonar, temperature/salinity sensors, magnetometers, sub-bottom profilers, GPS, DGPS, USBL, and other systems as required.
  • Responsible for equipment calibration, data collection, data quality, and log entries.
  • Operation of workstations and PC's with appropriate software programs to support projects is required.
  • Other projects may require light electronic work. Keeping of work logs or records sufficient for quality assurance.
  • All other duties as assigned

Qualifications
REQUIRED
  • Seven (7) or ten (10) years' experience in the Survey industry as a Survey Professional
  • Must be proficient with a variety of the field concepts, practices, procedures and equipment operations such as GPS, Side Scan Sonar, Multibeam, Sub-bottom Profiler and Magnetometer systems
  • Must have knowledge of basic computer skills, operation of data collector(s), and major survey equipment manufacturer's software
  • Must have or be able to obtain TWIC card (Transportation Worker Identification Credential)
  • Must be able to obtain a valid Passport and any other regionally mandated offshore work requirement documents as appropriate.
  • Ability to travel domestically and overseas.

DESIRED
  • Two year technical degree or higher in field of study
  • Bachelors Degree or equivalent desired
  • Current security clearance or ability to obtain security clearance.
  • Experience in supervisory position

Working Conditions
  • Outdoors and indoors, day and night, as well as over/near water.
  • Requires working on or near moving equipment and vibrating equipment.
  • Frequently the humidity is above 90%, noise is over 85 decibels and the light is intense/glare.
  • Potential exposure to open fire/flames/sparks.
  • Constant exposure to airborne dust, fumes, and gases.
  • Work surface is stable, height is elevated.

Benefits Statement
We offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits package. Employee benefits vary by role, however, may include Health and Wellness, Mental Health, Retirement Savings, Life and Disability, Paid Maternity and Parental Leave, Paid Time Off, Tuition Reimbursement, and an Employee Assistance Program.
About Us
Oceaneering is a global provider of engineered services and products, primarily to the offshore energy industry. We develop products and services for use throughout the lifecycle of an offshore oilfield, from drilling to decommissioning. We operate the world's premier fleet of work class ROVs. Additionally, we are a leader in offshore oilfield maintenance services, umbilicals, subsea hardware, and tooling. We also use applied technology expertise to serve the defense, material handling, aerospace, science, and renewable energy industries.
Equal Opportunity Employer:
All qualified candidates will receive consideration for all positions without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or other non-merit factor.
About the Team
As one of the largest providers of Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs), Oceaneering offers cost-effective, innovative solutions to solve our customers' most complex challenges. With 99% uptime, our vehicles offer tough, reliable service for the full asset life cycle anywhere in the world - from development through to decommissioning. With a focus on secure remote operations, we can assure any operation, including rig moves, subsea monitoring, inspection, and more. With our next generation of subsea vehicles, such as the Liberty™ E-ROV and Freedom™ AUV, we push the boundaries of autonomy and remote work capabilities, using machine learning for better decision making and asset maintenance.

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