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Geophysicist Jobs in Maryland (NOW HIRING)

AECOM

Geologist II

Germantown, MD

Prior geophysics experience is beneficial but is not required. We place a high value on technical aptitude, curiosity, initiative, dependability, and a willingness to learn. The successful candidate ...

Posted today

GBA Inc

Senior Survey Manager

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$100 - $150/hr

Participate in and lead hydrographic and geophysical survey projects from inception to completion for local, state, and federal clients along the Atlantic Coast with a focus on the Mid-Atlantic ...

New

US Navy

Oceanographer/Meteorologist

Arbutus, MD

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

Somerset, MD

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

Smithsburg, MD

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

Woodsboro, MD

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

Eden, MD

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

Williamsport, MD

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

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

Riva, MD

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

Essex, MD

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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All JobsGeophysicist JobsGeophysicist Jobs in Maryland

Geophysicist information

See Maryland salary details

$47.1K

$92.6K

$139.8K

How much do geophysicist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for geophysicist in Maryland is $92,601.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,900.00 and $108,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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, magnetic, and gravitational surveys to locate resources or understand geological processes. They analyze data, create models, and often use specialized software and equipment to interpret subsurface conditions, supporting activities like resource exploration and environmental assessment.
More about Geophysicist jobs

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Geophysicist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Geophysicist job openings in Maryland as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $92,601 per year, or $44.5 per hour.

Geophysicist/Geodesist

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab

Laurel, MD • On-site

$100 - $245/hr

Other

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Description

Do you have experience understanding geophysical and geodetic properties of the earth and an interest in investigating their real‑world application to navigation systems supporting missions of utmost importance to the nation?

Are you searching for a career with an employer that provides crucial leadership in solving highly technical challenges addressing our nation and prioritizes continual innovation?

Are you interested in joining a team of engineers, applied mathematicians and physicists as we pursue innovative solutions to the timely and timeless maritime navigation problem in support of the US Navy?

If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL.

We are the Navigation group in the Force Projection Sector at JHU/APL. We are seeking a Geophysicist/Geodesist to help us ensure the US Navy has the most accurate and reliable navigation systems in the world.

Responsibilities
  • Analyze current and potential future geophysical data products (bathymetry, gravity, magnetic, geodetic, etc.) for their accuracy and applicability to US Navy platforms
  • Become the subject matter expert on all geophysical data products used by the US Navy, including how they could be leveraged more effectively in the future
  • Provide advice and technical recommendations on geophysical sensors and data issues affecting various US Navy platforms
  • Advise US Navy sponsors on current and emerging geophysical navigation solutions, including both surface and subsurface fleets
  • Develop error models for geophysical data sources, including gravity, bathymetry, and magnetic data to determine how those errors impact the mission of different US Navy platforms
  • Develop production‑level software tools to be used in geophysical data analysis
  • Apply cutting‑edge analytics and machine learning techniques to geophysical data
  • Evaluate current geophysical‑aided navigation techniques
  • Develop innovative algorithms for integrating geophysical data into surface and subsurface navigation (both pre‑launch and in‑flight) systems
  • Develop and/or sustain geodesy and gravity modeling technology and tools, including the development of geophysical analysis capabilities
  • Collaborate with Laboratory, contractors, and sponsor teams on matters related to geophysical data (including maintenance and modernization) to address critical sponsor needs
  • Survey current academic and industry research for state‑of‑the‑art capabilities in new geophysical sensors to promote innovative ideas to benefit the country
Qualifications
  • Possess a M.S. degree in Geophysics, Geodesy, Physics, or related technical field
  • Have an understanding of and interest in geophysical data sources and how they are used in real world applications
  • Have experience in exploration geophysics, geodesy, and signal processing, with a strong background in physics and math
  • Possess the ability to lead development/research projects
  • Have strong programming experience
  • Are able to do some limited travel (up to 10%)
  • Are able to obtain Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain Top Secret level clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship
Preferred Qualifications
  • Possess a Ph.D. degree in Geophysics, Geodesy, Physics, or a related field
  • Have experience developing geophysical‑aided navigation algorithms
  • Have experience with geodesy and gravity error modeling and analysis, including the development of tools to perform the analysis
  • Have expertise with programming languages such as MATLAB, Python, etc.
  • Have experience with data science and machine learning
  • Have an Active, current Department of Defense security clearance
Salary

Minimum Rate: $100,000 Annually

Maximum Rate: $245,000 Annually

Equal Opportunity & Disability Accommodation

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accessibility@jhuapl.edu.

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