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Contract Geophysicist Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Field Quality Engineer I

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$30 - $36.50/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... contracts, and state and local requirements. **Our office is based out of Spokane Valley ... Install, operate, and troubleshoot geophysical testing and downhole imaging equipment. Review and ...

Soils Technician

Benicia, CA ยท On-site

$43K - $47K/yr

Experience with geophysical testing/logging is a plus * Candidate should have some experience with ... This description does not constitute a written or implied contract of employment.

Soils Technician

Benicia, CA ยท On-site

$43K - $47K/yr

Experience with geophysical testing/logging is a plus * Candidate should have some experience with ... This description does not constitute a written or implied contract of employment.

Soils Technician

Benicia, CA ยท On-site

$43K - $47K/yr

Experience with geophysical testing/logging is a plus * Candidate should have some experience with ... This description does not constitute a written or implied contract of employment.

Soils Technician

Benicia, CA

$43K - $47K/yr

Experience with geophysical testing/logging is a plus * Candidate should have some experience with ... This description does not constitute a written or implied contract of employment.

Soils Technician

Benicia, CA

$43K - $47K/yr

Experience with geophysical testing/logging is a plus * Candidate should have some experience with ... This description does not constitute a written or implied contract of employment.

Soils Technician

Benicia, CA ยท On-site

$43K - $47K/yr

Experience with geophysical testing/logging is a plus * Candidate should have some experience with ... This description does not constitute a written or implied contract of employment.

... geophysical setbacks; a world powered by cleaner energy and systems that accelerate the path to ... Coordinate with engineering, construction, procurement, contracts, planning, risk and project ...

Physics Part-Time Professor

Salinas, CA ยท On-site

$60.19 - $71.29/hr

Post and maintain office hours for student consultations, if applicable per the HCFA contract ... geophysics OR The equivalent. The Equivalency Committee will consider only those applicants who ...

Soils Technician

Benicia, CA ยท On-site

$28 - $32/hr

Experience with geophysical testing/logging is a plus * Candidate should have some experience with ... This description does not constitute a written or implied contract of employment. Review the ...

Soils Technician

Benicia, CA ยท On-site

$28 - $32/hr

Experience with geophysical testing/logging is a plus * Candidate should have some experience with ... This description does not constitute a written or implied contract of employment. Review the ...

Showing results 21-40

Contract Geophysicist information

See California salary details

$47.9K

$94.2K

$142.1K

How much do contract geophysicist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract geophysicist in California is $94,162.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,100.00 and $110,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a contract geophysicist?

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 as a contract geophysicist?

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 are the most commonly searched types of Geophysicist jobs in California?

The most popular types of Geophysicist jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Contract Geophysicist jobs in California?

For Contract Geophysicist jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Contract Geophysicist jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Contract Geophysicist jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Contract Geophysicist job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,162 per year, or $45.3 per hour.

Field Quality Engineer I

Crux Subsurface, Inc.

San Diego, CA โ€ข On-site

$30 - $36.50/hr

Per diem

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

About Us

Crux Subsurface, a subsidiary ofย Quanta Services, Inc.ย (NYSE: PWR), is a geotechnical drilling company merging innovation with experience to consistently provide accurate data and efficient, constructible solutions to projects of any size.

Our multidisciplinary team combines the expertise of structural and geotechnical engineers with experienced drillers, construction managers, geologists, and quality management specialists.

About this Role

This position at Crux Subsurface will be involved in a variety of shallow and deep foundation construction projects, emphasizing design-build delivery methods for electrical transmission and distribution projects. The Field Quality Engineer I will interface with a multi-disciplinary team consisting of engineering and construction management personnel. This position will be responsible for validating the quality of the constructed work and ensuring conformance with project quality management plans, engineering design documents (drawings and specifications), project contracts, and state and local requirements.

**Our office is based out of Spokane Valley, Washington; however, the Field Quality Engineer will primarily work remotely and travel as needed to support projects across the United States.ย 

Hourly: $30.00 - $36.50 DOE

Daily per diem provided for meals when assignments require overnight stay away from home.ย  Travel accommodations, including lodging, provided.

Medical, Dental, Vision, Prescription Coverage, HSA/FSA, Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability, Basic Life Insurance, EAP, Voluntary Benefits, and Identity Theft Protection. Benefits are offered with a shared premium cost between employer and employee.

401k and Roth contribution with company match eligibility.

Vacation and Sick Leave accrue in accordance with company policies.

What You'll Do
  • Competently review and interpret project documents to understand quality inspection and reporting requirements.
  • Competently review and interpret all available geologic and geotechnical data in advance of fieldwork.
  • Plan and collaborate with and receive direction from multiple stakeholders (Operations management, Engineering, and Construction personnel).
  • Perform technical tasks (measurements, calculations, etc.) and manage technical issues, including recommending solutions or alternatives, with limited oversight when necessary.
  • Develop, maintain, and submit pre-construction planning documentation, including construction work plans and schedules, quality management plans, and submittals.
  • Receive, inspect, and track materials.
  • Perform inspections of work quality and materials.
  • Develop, maintain, and submit accurate and complete quality and materials management records.
  • Collect and perform independent review and audit of quality records developed by construction personnel.
  • Sample, characterize, and log geotechnical materials using company procedures and commonly accepted standards.
  • Provide direction to construction personnel regarding minimum foundation installation requirements when necessary.
  • Develop, maintain, and submit daily construction field reports.
  • Sample, prepare, and transport grout and concrete specimens.
  • Install, operate, and troubleshoot geophysical testing and downhole imaging equipment. Review and interpret results and readings for adequacy.
  • Accurately perform and complete administrative tasks as required.
What You'll Bring
  • Undergraduate degree in civil engineering, geotechnical engineering, geologic science, construction management. Consideration is given to prior relatable experience.ย 
  • 0-2 years quality inspection or quality management experience, preferably construction related.
  • Proficient with Microsoft Office, particularly Excel and Word.
  • Able to read and interpret construction drawings, specifications, and contracts.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Excellent critical thinking and planning skills.
  • Strong work ethic - able to work in a team and willing to do what it takes to get the job done.
  • Able to balance, kneel, crouch, and walk/hike through uneven and steep terrain, occasionally at high altitude.
  • Able to climb ladders and equipment and access working platforms 4 to 6 feet above ground.
  • Able to access remote work sites by travel on helicopter.
  • Valid United States driver's license.
  • Able to travel domestically (required) and internationally (preferred).
Compensation RangeThe anticipated compensation for this position is USD $30.00/Hr. - USD $36.50/Hr. depending on experience and qualifications.Equal Opportunity Employer

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex (including gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation, and/or gender identity), age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, and/or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local law.We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status. We prohibit all types of discrimination and are committed to providing access and equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities. For additional information or if reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application, interview, or hiring processes or to perform the essential functions of a position, please contact us the Company's Human Resources department.

Employment Type: OTHER