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Entry Level Geophysicist Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Geophysicist information

See Illinois salary details

$47K

$92.5K

$139.5K

How much do entry level geophysicist jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level geophysicist in Illinois is $92,456.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,800.00 and $108,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does an Entry Level Geophysicist Do?

Entry-level geophysicists utilize industry technology to view and understand what shapes the earth, both above and below ground. As an entry-level geophysicist, you complete your tasks under the direction of a senior geophysicist. Your job duties may include collecting samples, reviewing geophysical data, and monitoring anomalies. Once you have some experience in the field, you may be expected to give an analysis of the information, prepare reports, and provide insight and assessments to various industries and projects that require this information. These reports help archaeologists, anthropologists, those in the seismic field, engineers involved with fossil fuel and mines, and construction workers. An entry-level geophysicist can work in the field or spend the majority of their time in the lab.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Geophysicist, you need a solid background in earth sciences, physics, mathematics, and typically a bachelor's degree in geophysics or a related field. Familiarity with geophysical data analysis software, GIS tools, and field equipment is commonly required, and certifications like OSHA HAZWOPER can be beneficial. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and strong teamwork and communication skills help you interpret data and collaborate effectively on projects. These competencies are crucial for accurately assessing subsurface conditions and contributing to successful environmental, engineering, or energy exploration projects.

What are some typical challenges faced by entry level geophysicists in the field and how can they be overcome?

Entry level geophysicists often face challenges such as adapting to fieldwork in remote or harsh environments, interpreting complex geophysical data, and learning to use specialized equipment and software. Overcoming these hurdles typically involves seeking mentorship from experienced colleagues, actively participating in team discussions, and taking advantage of on-the-job training opportunities. Building strong communication skills is also essential, as geophysicists frequently collaborate with engineers, geologists, and other professionals to solve multidisciplinary problems.

What jobs in the US pay 300,000 a year?

Entry level geophysicists typically do not earn $300,000 annually; such high salaries are usually associated with senior roles, specialized consulting, or management positions in the energy, oil and gas, or environmental sectors. Achieving this level often requires extensive experience, advanced certifications, and working in high-demand industries or executive roles.

What is the difference between Entry Level Geophysicist vs Entry Level Geologist?

AspectEntry Level GeophysicistEntry Level Geologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Geophysics, Geology, or related fieldBachelor's in Geology, Earth Science, or related field
Work EnvironmentField surveys, data analysis, technical modelingFieldwork, sample collection, laboratory analysis
Employer & Industry UsageOil & gas, mineral exploration, environmental consultingMining, environmental agencies, natural resource companies

While both roles involve earth sciences, Entry Level Geophysicists focus on subsurface imaging and data interpretation using geophysical methods, whereas Entry Level Geologists often conduct field sampling and geological mapping. The choice depends on your interest in data analysis versus fieldwork within the earth sciences industry.

What are the most commonly searched types of Geophysicist jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Geophysicist jobs in Illinois are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Geophysicist jobs in Illinois? For Entry Level Geophysicist jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Geophysicist jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Geophysicist jobs in Illinois are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Geophysicist job openings in Illinois as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 72% Physical, 16% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,456 per year, or $44.5 per hour.

Geotechnical Staff Engineer - Entry Level

Bacon Farmer Workman

Belleville, IL

$65K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

Geotechnical Staff Engineer

Belleville, Illinois or Brentwood, TN

Job Type: Full-time


The salary range for this position starts at $65,000

At Bacon Farmer Workman/Marcum Engineering, we put people first. If you're looking for a team-oriented, professional environment where you can learn fast, grow your career, and enjoy the work along the way, you'll fit right in. We're hiring a Geotechnical Staff Engineer (Entry Level) to join our geotechnical team in Brentwood (Nashville), TN, or Belleville, IL.

As a Geotechnical Staff Engineer, you'll support investigations and design recommendations for a wide range of construction and infrastructure projects. You'll partner with senior engineers and geologists, spend time both in the office and in the field, and build the technical foundation to accelerate your geotechnical career.


Why you'll like working here
We're committed to a welcoming, inclusive workplace where everyone has the opportunity to do their best work. We invest in your growth through mentoring, hands-on learning, and the tools you need to succeed-personally and professionally.

Essential Job Functions/Responsibilities:

  • Support the planning and execution of subsurface exploration programs, including boring layouts and utility-clearance coordination.
  • Perform field investigations (soil borings, sampling, and observations of field conditions) and document findings.
  • Collect soil, rock, and groundwater samples; coordinate transport/delivery to the geotechnical laboratory for testing.
  • Assist with geophysical surveys and specialty field testing as needed to support project requirements.
  • Analyze field and lab results to support geotechnical evaluations, engineering analyses, and basic design calculations under licensed engineer supervision.
  • Prepare field logs, summaries, and draft sections of geotechnical reports; support proposals, cost estimates, project documentation, and tracking/budgeting activities.
  • Position will include both office and field work.

Education/Experience

  • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Geotechnical or Geological Engineering required.
  • 0-4 years of relevant experience, or a master's degree in a related field.
  • EngineerinTraining (EIT) certification preferred or ability to obtain.
  • Valid driver's license in the state of residence.

Benefits:

  • Medical Insurance
  • Dental and Vision Coverage (employee coverage, employer paid)
  • Employer Paid Life Insurance of $50,000
  • Additional Voluntary Life Insurance is available for employee and their dependents
  • Paid Medical Leave
  • Employer-Paid Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • Generous Company Match 401 (k) program
  • Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
  • Health Reimbursement Account (HRA)
  • Paid Time Off
  • Ten Paid Holidays

Job Type:

  • Full-time

By completing the online application, Applicant certifies that the information they have provided is true, complete, and correct. Applicant further understands that any information provided by the Applicant which is found to be false, incomplete, or misrepresented in any respect will be sufficient cause to (i) eliminate me from further consideration for employment, or (ii) may result in my immediate discharge from employment when it is discovered.


Applicant expressly authorizes, without reservation, the employer, its representatives, employees, or agents to contact and obtain information from all references (Personal and Professional), employers, public agencies, licensing authorities, and educational institutions, and to otherwise verify the accuracy of all information provided by me in this application, resume, or any job interview. I hereby waive any and all rights and claims I may have regarding the employer, its agents, employees, or representatives, for seeking, gathering, and using truthful and non-defamatory information, in a lawful manner, in the employment process, and all other persons, corporations, or organizations for furnishing such information about me.

I understand that the position I am applying for is at-will, meaning that either the Employer or I may terminate our relationship at any time, with or without cause, except as required by law. This application does not constitute an agreement or contract for employment for any specified period. I understand that no supervisor or representative of Employer is authorized to make any assurances to the contrary and that no implied written or oral agreements contrary to the foregoing express language are valid unless they are in writing and signed by the employer's chief executive officer.

Applicant understands and acknowledges that, if hired, they will be required to provide proof of identity and legal authorization to work in the United States, and that federal immigration laws require me to complete an I-9 form for this purpose.

Bacon Farmer Workman Engineering & Testing, Inc. and Marcum Engineering LLC are proud to be Equal Opportunity Employers. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetics, citizenship status, or any other legally protected basis.