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Geophysicist Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Terra AI

Senior Geologist

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$185K - $250K/yr

The company's platform integrates geological, geophysical, and drilling data into intelligent systems designed to improve targeting accuracy, accelerate discovery timelines, and reduce exploration ...

ConeTec

Field Geologist/Engineer

Richmond, CA · On-site

$20 - $60/hr

SCOPE OF POSITION The Field Engineer / Geologist is responsible for the safe, efficient and accurate operation of geotechnical and geophysical site investigation equipment. Given significant ...

ConeTec

Field Geologist/Engineer

Richmond, CA · On-site

$20 - $60/hr

SCOPE OF POSITION The Field Engineer / Geologist is responsible for the safe, efficient and accurate operation of geotechnical and geophysical site investigation equipment. Given significant ...

ConeTec Group

Field Geologist/Engineer

Richmond, CA · On-site

Build comprehension of soil mechanics, in-situ testing, and geophysical field investigations. Gain experience and exposure as a contractor in several of North Americas largest industries. * Expand ...

US Navy

Oceanographer/Meteorologist

Whitewater, CA

Serve as the one-of-one geophysical expert at an operational command. What to Expect Serve in a variety of challenging operational billets with increasing scope and responsibility, both at sea and ...

U.S. Navy

CA · On-site

Serve as the one-of-one geophysical expert at an operational command. What to Expect Serve in a variety of challenging operational billets with increasing scope and responsibility, both at sea and ...

US Navy

Oceanographer/Meteorologist

Sunnyvale, CA

Serve as the one-of-one geophysical expert at an operational command. What to Expect Serve in a variety of challenging operational billets with increasing scope and responsibility, both at sea and ...

US Navy

Oceanographer/Meteorologist

Durham, CA

Serve as the one-of-one geophysical expert at an operational command. What to Expect Serve in a variety of challenging operational billets with increasing scope and responsibility, both at sea and ...

US Navy

Oceanographer/Meteorologist

Anza, CA

Serve as the one-of-one geophysical expert at an operational command. What to Expect Serve in a variety of challenging operational billets with increasing scope and responsibility, both at sea and ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsGeophysicist JobsGeophysicist Jobs in California

Geophysicist information

See California salary details

$47.9K

$94.2K

$142.1K

How much do geophysicist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for 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.

Are geophysicist jobs in demand?

Geophysicist jobs are in demand in industries such as oil and gas exploration, environmental consulting, and renewable energy, especially for those with strong technical skills and experience with seismic data analysis and modeling. Employment prospects are influenced by energy market trends and technological advancements, with opportunities often available in research institutions and government agencies as well.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a geophysicist?

To thrive as a Geophysicist, you need a solid background in physics, geology, mathematics, and typically a degree in geophysics or a related field. Familiarity with geophysical data analysis tools, seismic interpretation software, and GIS systems is commonly required, as well as certifications such as Professional Geologist (PG) in some regions. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are essential soft skills for interpreting data and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These competencies are crucial for accurately assessing subsurface conditions, supporting resource exploration, and ensuring successful project outcomes.

What is a geophysicist?

Geophysicists are scientists who study the physical properties and processes of the Earth using principles of physics, mathematics, and geology. They investigate phenomena such as earthquakes, magnetic and gravitational fields, and the Earth's internal structure. Geophysicists often work in the field, laboratories, or offices, and their research is vital for natural resource exploration, environmental protection, and understanding natural hazards. Their work supports industries like oil and gas, mining, environmental consulting, and government research organizations.

What are some typical challenges geophysicists face when working on field projects?

Geophysicists often encounter challenges such as adapting to remote or harsh environments, managing complex equipment, and interpreting large volumes of data collected in the field. Weather conditions and logistical constraints can affect project timelines and data quality, requiring flexibility and problem-solving skills. Additionally, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams—including geologists, engineers, and environmental scientists—is essential for integrating findings and ensuring project success.

What is the difference between Geophysicist vs Geologist?

AspectGeophysicistGeologist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or master's in geophysics, geology, or related field; often requires specialized training in geophysical methodsBachelor's or master's in geology or earth sciences; focus on mineralogy, petrology, and structural geology
Work EnvironmentField surveys, data analysis, modeling; often in exploration, environmental, or research settingsFieldwork, laboratory analysis, mapping; in mineral, oil, gas, or environmental industries
Industry UsageUsed in oil & gas exploration, environmental consulting, and researchUsed in mineral exploration, environmental assessment, and academic research

While both geophysicists and geologists study Earth's processes, geophysicists focus on physical methods to explore subsurface features, whereas geologists analyze Earth's materials and history. Their roles often overlap in exploration projects, but their approaches and tools differ.

What do you do as a geophysicist?

A geophysicist studies the physical properties of the Earth using techniques such as seismic surveys, gravity measurements, and magnetic data to explore subsurface structures. They analyze data to locate natural resources like oil, gas, and minerals, often working with specialized software and field equipment. The role typically requires strong analytical skills and knowledge of geology and physics.
More about Geophysicist jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Geophysicist jobs in California? The most popular types of Geophysicist jobs in California are:
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What job categories do people searching Geophysicist jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Geophysicist jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Geophysicist jobs? Cities in California with the most Geophysicist job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Geophysicist jobs in CA? For Geophysicist jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Geophysicist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Geophysicist job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,162 per year, or $45.3 per hour.

Senior Geologist

Terra AI

Redwood City, CA • On-site

$185K - $250K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Terra AI is building a new category at the intersection of artificial intelligence, geoscience, and critical resource development.
As global demand for copper, lithium, nickel, rare earth elements, geothermal energy, and other strategic resources accelerates, the mining and subsurface industries face a growing challenge: traditional exploration methods remain slow, expensive, and highly uncertain. Terra AI was founded to help solve this problem by redefining how critical resources are discovered, evaluated, and developed.
By combining advanced machine learning, probabilistic modeling, and deep geoscience expertise, Terra AI helps exploration and mining companies make faster, more informed subsurface decisions with greater confidence and capital efficiency. The company's platform integrates geological, geophysical, and drilling data into intelligent systems designed to improve targeting accuracy, accelerate discovery timelines, and reduce exploration risk.
Backed by leading investors including Khosla Ventures and working alongside strategic industry partners including Rio Tinto, Ero Copper, and Ramaco Resources, Terra AI is emerging as one of the more closely watched AI-native companies operating within the mining and critical minerals sector.
Terra AI's mission is to define the new global standard for data-driven critical resource development - breaking the cost and time curve required to support electrification, energy security, and the global energy transition.
The company operates with a strong partnership mentality, combining technical rigor, candid communication, continual learning, and environmental stewardship to help modern exploration teams solve some of the world's most important resource challenges.
Role
We are seeking a Senior Geologist to help lead geological interpretation and mineral systems modeling efforts that support Terra AI's exploration workflows. In this role, you will work closely with geologists, geophysicists, and machine learning engineers to integrate complex geological datasets into modern exploration models supporting critical minerals discovery.
  • Interpret and integrate geological, geochemical, and geophysical datasets across multiple scales
  • Build robust mineral systems and exploration models supporting probabilistic targeting workflows
  • Support geological feature engineering and modern computational exploration workflows
  • QA/QC historical and modern exploration datasets to improve modeling confidence
  • Collaborate closely with internal and external technical teams across geology, geophysics, and engineering
  • Produce technical reports, visualizations, and exploration recommendations for global projects
  • Provide geological expertise to support the automation and improvement of exploration workflows

Qualifications
  • Experience in economic geology, mineral exploration, or mine development
  • Strong experience in critical minerals and base metals geology
  • Proficiency with GIS and 3D geological modeling software
  • Experience integrating geological and exploration datasets into cohesive exploration models
  • Strong understanding of geochemistry and mineralization systems
  • Exposure to computational geology, geostatistics, remote sensing, or AI-enabled exploration workflows is considered beneficial

Candidates from both traditional exploration and emerging computational geology environments are encouraged to apply.
We recognize that exceptional candidates may come from a variety of professional, technical, and industry backgrounds. If your experience aligns closely with the spirit of the role, we encourage you to apply even if you do not meet every listed qualification.
Compensation
$185,000- $250,000 + Equity
In accordance with California law, Terra AI provides a good faith base salary range for roles that may be performed in California. Actual compensation will be determined based on experience, qualifications, skills, and market considerations. In addition to base salary, total compensation may include performance bonus opportunities, equity participation, and a comprehensive benefits package.
Terra AI is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to building a diverse and inclusive team. We consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.

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