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Entry Level Geophysicist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The SUE Graduate Trainee Technician will work closely, in an entry-level, probationary capacity ... geophysical prospecting for underground utilities. The SUE Technician will also support overall SUE ...

The SUE Graduate Trainee Technician will work closely, in an entry-level, probationary capacity ... geophysical prospecting for underground utilities. The SUE Technician will also support overall SUE ...

From AI-supported solutions and predictive technologies to geophysics and traditional exploration ... Support consistent quality standards on proposal and project delivery. * Entry level geological ...

SUE Technician I

Sarasota, FL

$19.25 - $26.25/hr

SUE Technician is an entry level position working under direction of the SUE Analyst on projects ... geophysical means. * Exercise extreme caution near or around any utility facility and follow all ...

SUE Technician I (Utility Locator)

Tampa, FL

$18.25 - $24.75/hr

SUE Technician I is an entry level position working under direction of the SUE Analyst on projects ... geophysical means. * Exercise extreme caution near or around any utility facility and follow all ...

From AI-supported solutions and predictive technologies to geophysics and traditional exploration ... Support consistent quality standards on proposal and project delivery. * Entry level geological ...

SUE Technician I (Utility Locator)

Norfolk, VA

$19.50 - $26.50/hr

SUE Technician is an entry level position working under direction of the SUE Analyst on projects ... geophysical means. * Exercise extreme caution near or around any utility facility and follow all ...

SUE Technician I (Utility Locator)

Raleigh, NC

$19.50 - $26.50/hr

SUE Technician I is an entry level position working under direction of the SUE Analyst on projects ... geophysical means. * Exercise extreme caution near or around any utility facility and follow all ...

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Entry Level Geophysicist information

See salary details

$48.5K

$95.4K

$144K

How much do entry level geophysicist jobs pay per year?

As of May 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level 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 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 cities are hiring for Entry Level Geophysicist jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level 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 Entry Level Geophysicist jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Geophysicist jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Geophysicist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Geophysicist jobs are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Geophysicist job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 71% Hybrid, and 29% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,411 per year, or $45.9 per hour.
Driller Assistant/Exploration Team Member I

Driller Assistant/Exploration Team Member I

TERRACON

Des Moines, IA

$22.50 - $30.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Terracon rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 112 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

42nd of 57 rated business consultants


Job description

Posting Title: Drilling / Exploration Technician (Entry Level) 
Location: Des Moines, IA + Regional Travel 
Looking to start a hands-on career with long-term stability-not seasonal layoffs? Terracon offers yearround work, paid training, and a clear path to advancement in a growing industry. If you enjoy working outdoors, learning technical skills, and being part of a safetyfocused team, this could be the opportunity for you. 
 

  • Stable, yearround employment
  • Paid, onthejob training-no prior drilling experience required
  • Clear advancement opportunities, including growing into a Team Leader role
  • Employee ownership-you share in the company's success
  • Strong safety culture that prioritizes your wellbeing
  • Opportunity to work on projects across Nebraska and beyond
  • Build specialized skills that are always in demand
 

Ready to build a career that lasts?
Join Terracon's Des Moines-area team and start developing skills that open doors to leadership, specialization, and long-term stability. 

Terracon is a 100 percent employee-owned multidiscipline consulting firm comprised of more than 8,000 curious minds focused on solving engineering and technical challenges from more than 200 locations nationwide. Since 1965, Terracon has evolved into a successful multi-discipline firm specializing in environmental, facilities, geotechnical, and materials services. Terracon's growth is due to our talented employee-owners exceeding expectations in client service and growing their careers with new and exciting opportunities in the marketplace. Terracon was recognized as the #1 firm in Asbestos and Lead Abatement.

Terracon's vision of "Together, we are best at people" is demonstrated through our excellent compensation and benefits package. Based on eligibility, role and job status, we offer many programs including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k) plan, paid time off and holidays, education reimbursement, and various bonus programs.
Innovation and hands-on practice come together in our geotechnical consulting services. We provide geotechnical services nationwide for a wide range of projects, drawing on six decades of historical geotechnical data, a fleet of more than 200 drill rigs, 140 accredited laboratories, and thousands of employees to quickly organize or capture site data wherever projects are located.From AI-supported solutions and predictive technologies to geophysics and traditional exploration, we deliver precision, value-added subsurface information and engineering and scientific expertise to solving our clients' challenges and achieve their goals for project sustainability, quality, and efficiency.
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Little to no prior experience required-we'll train you
  • Willingness to travel for projects
  • Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record
  • Ability to obtain a DOT Medical Card within 30 days of hire
  • Ability to work outdoors and in varying weather conditions
  • Dependable, safetyminded, and eager to learn

As an Entry-Level Drilling / Exploration Technician, you'll train alongside experienced professionals while building skills that lead to a long-term career:

  • Work yearround (not seasonal like landscaping, snow removal, or construction)
  • Learn drilling and exploration fundamentals, including: 
    • Equipment operation and maintenance (augers, bits, tooling)
    • Soil and rock testing methods
    • Installation of groundwater monitoring wells
    • Basics of reading civil and geotechnical plans
  • Assist the Lead Operator with daily field operations
  • Drive mediumduty trucks to job sites across the region
  • Follow Terracon's SafetyFirst culture: 
    • Participate in pretask planning
    • Follow all safety standards and report concerns
  • Maintain quality standards on every project
  • Travel regionally and occasionally nationwide with per diem provided

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