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Contract Geophysicist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior Geophysicist

Sacramento, CA Ā· On-site

$120.80K - $187.20K/yr

Ensure contracts are signed and fully executed prior to commencing work. Monitor adherence to ... Professional Geophysicist designation based on state requirements. Preferred Certification:

Oversee and provide near-surface geophysical (geophysics) technical expertise in the management of ... Ensure contracts are signed and fully executed prior to commencing work. Monitor adherence to ...

... contract work. This is not a traditional job. You'll draw on your hands‐on experience with ... Geophysicists Computational Fluid Dynamics Engineer or Research Scientist Aerospace Engineer or ...

... contract remote role for a Field Assistant for projects in Alaska. Responsibilities include providing logistical support, assisting with field operations, conducting various geophysical surveys and ...

... contract remote role for a Field Assistant for projects in Alaska. Responsibilities include providing logistical support, assisting with field operations, conducting various geophysical surveys and ...

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Contract Geophysicist information

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$48.5K

$95.4K

$144K

How much do contract geophysicist jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract geophysicist in the United States is $95,411.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,000.00 and $112,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Contract Geophysicist job?

A Contract Geophysicist is a professional who applies geophysical techniques to study the Earth's subsurface on a temporary or project-based basis. They analyze seismic, magnetic, electrical, or gravitational data to assist in resource exploration, environmental assessments, or engineering projects. Unlike full-time employees, contract geophysicists typically work on short-term assignments for companies in oil and gas, mining, or environmental industries. Their role may involve fieldwork, data interpretation, and reporting findings to clients. This career path offers flexibility but requires strong technical skills and the ability to adapt to different projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Contract Geophysicist position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract Geophysicist, you need a solid grounding in geoscience, seismic data interpretation, and field survey techniques, usually supported by a degree in geophysics or a related field. Familiarity with industry-standard software like Petrel, Kingdom, and GIS platforms, as well as proficiency in data processing tools, is vital, and certifications such as SEG membership or GIT registration can be advantageous. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help in collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and adapting to dynamic project requirements. These competencies are crucial for delivering accurate subsurface analyses, meeting client objectives, and succeeding in a fast-paced, project-driven environment.

What does a typical project cycle look like for a Contract Geophysicist, and how do they interact with other professionals?

A Contract Geophysicist often works on projects from the data acquisition and survey planning stages through to data analysis, interpretation, and reporting of results. Throughout the project, you will collaborate closely with geologists, engineers, and project managers to integrate geological data, interpret seismic results, and provide recommendations for exploration or development decisions. The role involves both independent work and teamwork, requiring regular status updates, presentations, and technical documentation. Since project timelines can be tight and objectives may change, adaptability and the ability to communicate complex findings clearly are key to success in this position.
What cities are hiring for Contract Geophysicist jobs? Cities with the most Contract Geophysicist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Geophysicist jobs? The most popular types of Geophysicist jobs are:
What states have the most Contract Geophysicist jobs? States with the most job openings for Contract Geophysicist jobs include:
Infographic showing various Contract Geophysicist job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $95,411 per year, or $45.9 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Description

Acorn Science & Innovation, Inc. (AcornSI) is seeking an entry- to mid-level Project Geophysicist to join a small team of geophysicists, responsible for participating in and managing MMRP related geophysical investigations utilizing Advanced Geophysical Classification (AGC) technologies. Work is fast paced, provides excitement, challenges, and opportunities to learn in many disciplines.

The candidate will work alongside senior geophysicists and software engineers who are experts in their field. He or she will be responsible for authoring technical reports, monitoring project milestones, and interacting with commercial clients. Additionally, he or she will become a key team member overseeing the data quality of production data processing and addressing reported performance problems related to workflow efficiencies.

This is a full-time position supporting multiple multi-year Department of Defense (DoD) related contracts. The selected individual will work as an integral member of a team and will be responsible for leading geophysical data acquisition and analysis projects as part of a collaborative effort. Limited domestic travel will be required. Applicant must be a citizen of the United States.

Required Skills and Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree required. Candidates with Geophysics, Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, or related field preferred. A desired minimum GPA of 3.2
  • Experience in digital signal processing
  • Demonstrated strong ability to work independently in a self-directed environment
  • Solid verbal and written communication skills

Desired Skills and Qualifications

  • Knowledge and experience in the collection of geophysical data
  • Knowledge and experience in the analysis of geophysical data
  • Experience in the airborne geophysical industry
  • Experience with Advanced Geophysical Classification sensors
  • Experience with Advanced Geophysical data analysis technologies

AcornSI understands that it takes more than competitive salaries to attract and retain the best employees - they deserve solid, sustainable benefits too. In addition to offering competitive salaries that are commensurate with education and experience, AcornSI offers a comprehensive benefit package with options our employees can tailor to fit the way they live. This includes Group Medical, Dental, and Vision care, as well as a safe harbor 401(k) plan. Our employees have found that their efforts can have a direct impact on company growth and often leads to increased job satisfaction, organizational commitment, motivation, and a strong sense of teamwork. Complete and current descriptions of these benefits may be found in the appropriate plan documents you'll receive when you're offered a job.

AcornSI considers its people as our most valuable resource and seeks employees who value intellectual challenge, are committed to excellence in the workplace, and observe the highest levels of professional and personal ethics. AcornSI encourages staff to develop new skills through education and training as well as by applying existing capabilities in new directions. We believe in providing our employees with the opportunity to achieve to their fullest potential. It is this commitment to people and their involvement in the company that has enabled AcornSI to acquire and retain a cadre of personnel with scientific, technical, and computer programming expertise.

AcornSI is an equal opportunity employer in full compliance with all federal, state, and local equal employment laws and regulation. We make hiring decisions without regard to race, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, sexual orientation, or any other protected classification.