1

Geophysical Software Developer Jobs in Washington

GNSS Scientist

Washington, DC · On-site

$105K - $135K/yr

Degree in geodesy, geophysics, physics, applied mathematics, computer science, or a related field ... programming in a Linux environment * Analysis of large datasets * Knowledge of standard software ...

GNSS Scientist

Washington, DC · On-site

$105K - $135K/yr

Degree in geodesy, geophysics, physics, applied mathematics, computer science, or a related field ... programming in a Linux environment * Analysis of large datasets * Knowledge of standard software ...

Showing results 41-60

Geophysical Software Developer information

What is a geophysical software developer?

Geophysical Software Developers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain software applications used to process and analyze geophysical data, such as seismic, magnetic, or gravitational information. They work closely with geoscientists and engineers to create tools that aid in exploration, environmental studies, and resource management. Their work involves programming, algorithm development, and integrating scientific knowledge into functional software solutions. These developers are commonly employed in industries like oil and gas, environmental consulting, and research institutions.

What is the difference between Geophysical Software Developer vs Geophysicist?

AspectGeophysical Software DeveloperGeophysicist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Computer Science, Geophysics, or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Geophysics or Earth Sciences
Work EnvironmentSoftware development teams, R&D labs, tech companiesResearch institutions, exploration companies, academia
Industry UsageDevelops software tools for seismic data processing, modelingInterprets seismic data, conducts field surveys
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

While both roles work within the geophysics industry, Geophysical Software Developers focus on creating software solutions for seismic data analysis, whereas Geophysicists primarily interpret data and conduct field research. The roles often collaborate but require different skill sets and credentials.

How does a geophysical software developer typically collaborate with geoscientists and data analysts on projects?

Geophysical Software Developers regularly work alongside geoscientists and data analysts to understand the specific requirements of modeling, data processing, and visualization tasks. They participate in project planning meetings to gather input, translate scientific needs into technical solutions, and iterate on software features based on feedback. Close collaboration ensures that the software tools are both scientifically accurate and user-friendly, allowing for efficient analysis and interpretation of geophysical data. This teamwork often leads to innovative solutions and continuous learning within multidisciplinary teams.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a geophysical software developer?

To thrive as a Geophysical Software Developer, you need a strong background in geophysics, computer science, and mathematics, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with programming languages like Python, C++, and MATLAB, as well as experience with geophysical modeling tools and data visualization platforms, is essential. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork make someone stand out in this position. These skills ensure robust and efficient development of software tools that support accurate analysis and interpretation of geophysical data.

What jobs can I get with a geophysical software developer degree?

A geophysical software developer degree prepares individuals for roles such as geophysical software engineer, seismic data analyst, or geoscience programmer. These positions involve developing and maintaining software for seismic imaging, exploration, and data interpretation, often requiring knowledge of programming languages like Python, C++, or MATLAB and familiarity with geophysical principles.

Are geophysical software developer jobs in demand?

Geophysical software developer jobs are in demand due to the need for specialized software in exploration, seismic analysis, and environmental studies. These roles often require knowledge of programming languages like Python or C++ and familiarity with geophysical data processing tools. The industry is expected to grow as demand for resource exploration and environmental monitoring increases.
What are popular job titles related to Geophysical Software Developer jobs in Washington? For Geophysical Software Developer jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Geophysical Software Developer jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Geophysical Software Developer jobs in Washington are:
Infographic showing various Geophysical Software Developer job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Hybrid job distribution.

$74K/yr

Other

Posted 8 days ago


U.S. Department Of Commerce rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

120th of 841 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

This position is located in the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), National Environmental Satellite, Data, and Information Service (NESDIS), with 1 vacancy in Greenbelt, MD. Additional duty locations are listed for future vacancies and/or vacancies that may be filled throughout the Department of Commerce. Please select locations for which you want to be considered.Qualifications:

Qualification requirements in the vacancy announcements are based on the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards Handbook, which contains federal qualification standards. This handbook is available on the Office of Personnel Management's website located at: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/
BASIC REQUIREMENTS: This position requires applicants to meet a Basic Education Requirement in addition to at least one full year (52 weeks) of specialized experience OR substitution of education for experience OR combination (if applicable) in order to be found minimally qualified. Transcripts must be submitted with your application package. You MUST meet one of the following basic education requirements:
To qualify for the 1301 series:
EDUCATION:
A. Degree: Physical science, engineering, or mathematics that included 24 semester hours in physical science and/or related engineering science such as mechanics, dynamics, properties of materials, and electronics.
OR
B. Combination of education and experience: education equivalent to one of the majors shown in A above that included at least 24 semester hours in physical science and/or related engineering science, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
-AND-
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: Applicants must possess one year of specialized experience equivalent in difficulty and responsibility to the next lower grade level in the Federal Service. Specialized experience is experience that has equipped the applicant with the particular competencies/knowledge, skills and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position. This experience need not have been in the federal government.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations e.g., professional; philanthropic, religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies; knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
To qualify at the ZP-3 or GS-11 level:
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: In addition to meeting the Basic Requirements above, applicants must also possess one full year (52 weeks) of specialized experience equivalent to the ZP-2 or GS-09 in the Federal service. Specialized experience MUST include all of the following:

  • Assisting in the testing or implementation of the environmental data workflow and products; and
  • Assisting in the delivery of geophysical information for ocean, atmosphere, and land to stakeholders.

OR
SUBSTITUTION OF EDUCATION: Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree or 3 years of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to such a degree.
OR
COMBINATION OF EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: A combination of successfully completed graduate-level education and specialized experience may be used to meet the total experience requirements. Note: Only graduate-level education in excess of the amount required for the next lower level may be combined with experience.
To qualify at the ZP-4 or GS-13 level:
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: In addition to meeting the Basic Requirements above, applicants must also possess one full year (52 weeks) of specialized experience equivalent to the ZP-3 or GS-12 in the Federal service. Specialized experience MUST include all of the following:
  • Managing the design, development, testing, or implementation of environmental data workflow and products;
  • Participating in the development of algorithm life cycle processes, such as transition of scientific software from research to operations, the maintenance of the algorithm until retirement, etc.; and
  • Delivering geophysical information for ocean, atmosphere, and land to stakeholders.
Education:

College Transcript: If you are qualifying based on education, submit a copy of your college transcript that lists college courses detailing each course by the number and department (i.e., Bio 101, Math 210, etc.), name of accredited institution, course title, number of credit hours and grade earned. You must submit evidence that any education completed in a foreign institution is equivalent to U.S. education standards with your resume. You may submit an unofficial copy of the transcript at the initial phase of the application process. If course content cannot be easily identified from the title of the course as listed on your transcript, you must submit an official course description from the college/university that reflects the content at the time the course was taken.
Note: Your college transcript is used to verify successful completion of degree, or college course work. An official college transcript will be required before you can report to duty.
Education completed in colleges or universities outside the United States may be used to meet the above requirements. You must provide acceptable documentation that the foreign education is comparable to that received in an accredited educational institution in the United States. For more information on how foreign education is evaluated, visit: OPM Foreign Education Evaluation.

Employment Type: OTHER

What U.S. Department Of Commerce employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom