ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Exploration Geophysicist Jobs in New Mexico (NOW HIRING)

TERRACON

Staff Geophysicist

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

Perform a comprehensive range of geophysical technologies in support of geologic, groundwater ... the exploration, planning, design, locating, and/or evaluation of a wide variety of sites to ...

TERRACON

Staff Geophysicist

Albuquerque, NM

... data for the exploration, planning, design, locating, and/or evaluation of a wide variety of sites to increase accuracy and manage project risk. * Bachelor's degree in Geology or Geophysics.

ARA

Senior Geotechnical Engineer 1

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$52.50 - $87.51/hr

You will guide and coach teams performing geophysical surveys, exploratory drilling, geotechnical mapping, rock mass characterization, test data acquisition, and sensor deployment. A key part of your ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsExploration Geophysicist JobsExploration Geophysicist Jobs in New Mexico

Exploration Geophysicist information

See New Mexico salary details

$47K

$92.5K

$139.5K

How much do exploration geophysicist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for exploration geophysicist in New Mexico is $92,461.00, 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 is an exploration geophysicist?

Exploration geophysicists are scientists who use physical methods to study the Earth's subsurface, primarily to locate natural resources such as oil, gas, minerals, or groundwater. They collect and analyze data from seismic, magnetic, gravitational, electrical, and electromagnetic surveys to create maps and models of what lies beneath the surface. Their work is vital in the energy, mining, and environmental industries, guiding drilling and excavation decisions while minimizing environmental impact.

How does an exploration geophysicist typically collaborate with geologists and engineers during a project?

Exploration Geophysicists work closely with geologists and engineers throughout the lifecycle of a project. They interpret geophysical data to identify subsurface structures, then share their findings with geologists to validate geological models. Engineers rely on these insights to assess extraction feasibility and plan drilling operations. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as regular meetings and data-sharing ensure that all disciplines are aligned, leading to more accurate resource estimation and successful project outcomes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an exploration geophysicist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Exploration Geophysicist, you need a strong background in geology, physics, mathematics, and geophysical data interpretation, typically supported by a relevant degree such as geophysics or earth sciences. Proficiency with industry-standard software like Petrel, Kingdom, and seismic data processing tools, as well as familiarity with GIS systems, is essential. Strong analytical thinking, teamwork, and effective communication skills help in collaborating on multidisciplinary projects and conveying technical findings. These skills and qualities are vital for accurately identifying subsurface resources and contributing to successful exploration efforts.

What is the difference between Exploration Geophysicist vs Geoscientist?

AspectExploration GeophysicistGeoscientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Geophysics, Geology, or related field; certifications varyBachelor's or higher in Geology, Geophysics, or Earth Sciences; certifications optional
Work EnvironmentField surveys, seismic data analysis, exploration sitesLaboratories, field sites, research institutions
Industry UsageOil & gas, mineral exploration, energy companiesEnvironmental consulting, research, academia

Exploration Geophysicists focus on locating natural resources through seismic and geophysical methods, often working in exploration environments. Geoscientists have broader roles in studying Earth's processes, often in research or environmental contexts. Both roles require strong geoscience backgrounds but differ in focus and work settings.

How much do exploration geophysicists make?

Exploration geophysicists typically earn a median annual salary of around $80,000 to $120,000, depending on experience, location, and industry sector. Senior professionals with specialized skills or working in resource-rich regions can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $150,000 annually.

What are popular job titles related to Exploration Geophysicist jobs in New Mexico?

For Exploration Geophysicist jobs in New Mexico, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Exploration Geophysicist jobs in New Mexico look for?

The top searched job categories for Exploration Geophysicist jobs in New Mexico are:

Exploration Geophysicist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Exploration Geophysicist job openings in New Mexico as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 31% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,461 per year, or $44.5 per hour.

Staff Geophysicist

TERRACON

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Terracon rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 120 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

50th of 72 rated business consultants

Job description


Perform a comprehensive range of geophysical technologies in support of geologic, groundwater, environmental, engineering, and materials testing investigations. Perform non-invasive geophysical surveys from the ground surface as well as geophysical logging in boreholes to provide images or models of subsurface conditions. Define survey objectives, design survey approaches, analyze the resulting geophysical data, and provide interpretation of results. Results are incorporated into the planning, design and construction of vital infrastructure such as roads, tunnels, airports, landfills, water supplies, and other facilities; the assessment of environmental conditions; and the evaluation of earth resources. Geophysics supports all of Terracon's service lines.
Responsibilities
  • Follow safety rules, guidelines and standards for all projects. Participate in pre-task planning. Report any safety issues or concerns to management.
  • Demonstrate quality practices and acumen.
  • Provide consistent quality standards on proposal and project delivery.
  • Proficient Geophysicist responsible for conducting geophysical surveys and making recommendations for design on smaller projects of minimal complexity.
  • May assist more senior Geophysicists on large, more complex projects.
  • Performs site visits, field observations and field data collection or assignments.
  • Direct and supervise field staff to sample, test and collect data and/or document site activities.
  • Responsible for developing written proposals to clients for approval by senior level professionals.
  • Evaluates moderately complex geophysical data and assembles in written reports.
  • May serve as team member or participate in meetings and communications with client pertaining to specific projects/tasks.
  • May oversee work performed by lower level Geophysicists and Technicians.
  • Works under the supervision of a Terracon Authorized Project Reviewer.

    • Qualifications
    • Bachelor's degree in Geology or Geophysics.
    • Minimum 1-3 years' experience.
    • Master's degree preferred.
    • A valid driver's license with acceptable violation history may be required.

    Preferred Qualifications:
    • Certification in field of expertise based on state specific requirements.

    About Us
    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.
    About the Team
    Terracon's geophysical services provide valuable information about the subsurface of our clients' project sites faster, safer, and more sustainably than traditional drilling with little or no site disturbance. With the most geophysical professionals and the largest fleet of near-surface equipment compared to competitors, our experts draw on a wide range of screening tools to provide our clients with necessary geophysical data for the exploration, planning, design, locating, and/or evaluation of a wide variety of sites to increase accuracy and manage project risk.

    What Terracon employees say

    Pay

    Benefits

    Hours and flexibility

    Workplace

    Get the full story on Breakroom

    Apply