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Geophysics Graduate Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Project Engineer

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$102K - $159K/yr

Supervise graduate, field and project engineering staff. * Work under the supervision of a Terracon ... From AI-supported solutions and predictive technologies to geophysics and traditional exploration ...

From AI-supported solutions and predictive technologies to geophysics and traditional exploration ... May supervise field staff including graduate/field engineers, engineering technicians, exploration ...

From AI-supported solutions and predictive technologies to geophysics and traditional exploration ... Supervise graduate, field and project engineering staff. * Work under the supervision of a Terracon ...

Staff Engineer

Ashburn, VA · On-site

$83K - $129K/yr

May supervise field staff including graduate/field engineers, engineering technicians, exploration ... From AI-supported solutions and predictive technologies to geophysics and traditional exploration ...

CDM Smith is seeking an entry-level graduate to join our Geotechnical Engineering team in Fairfax ... Supports geotechnical, hydrological, and geophysical site investigations, including review and ...

Geophysics Graduate information

See Virginia salary details

$48.1K

$94.6K

$142.8K

How much do geophysics graduate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for geophysics graduate in Virginia is $94,593.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,400.00 and $111,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Geophysics Graduate vs Geoscientist?

AspectGeophysics GraduateGeoscientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in geophysics or related fieldBachelor's or higher in geology, geophysics, or earth sciences
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, data analysis, research labsField surveys, laboratory work, data interpretation
Industry UsageEntry-level roles in exploration, environmental consultingExploration, resource management, environmental assessment

While both roles involve earth sciences and data analysis, a Geophysics Graduate typically focuses on geophysical methods and data collection, often in exploration or environmental projects. A Geoscientist has a broader scope, including geology and earth processes, and may work in diverse settings like resource exploration or environmental consulting. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds but differ in specialization and job focus.

What is a geophysics graduate?

Geophysics graduates are individuals who have completed a degree in geophysics, the scientific study of the Earth using physical methods. They learn about the Earth's structure, composition, and processes by applying principles of physics, mathematics, and geology. Geophysics graduates often work in fields like natural resource exploration, environmental consulting, research, and engineering. Their skills are valuable for understanding earthquakes, mapping underground resources, and monitoring environmental changes. These graduates typically possess strong analytical, computational, and problem-solving abilities.

What are some common challenges faced by geophysics graduates in their first professional role?

Geophysics Graduates often encounter the challenge of adapting theoretical knowledge to practical fieldwork, which can involve using complex instruments and interpreting large datasets in real-world environments. Working in multidisciplinary teams with geologists, engineers, and data scientists requires strong communication and collaboration skills. Additionally, field assignments may involve travel or remote locations, demanding flexibility and adaptability. Over time, these experiences help graduates develop a well-rounded skill set and open up opportunities for advancement into specialized or leadership roles.

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

To thrive as a Geophysics Graduate, you need a solid background in physics, mathematics, earth sciences, and often a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with geophysical data analysis software (such as MATLAB, GIS, or seismic interpretation tools) and sometimes GPR or remote sensing equipment is typical. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills set exceptional candidates apart. These skills enable accurate scientific analysis, effective problem-solving, and successful collaboration on complex geoscientific projects.
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Geophysics Graduate jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Geophysics Graduate job openings:
Infographic showing various Geophysics Graduate job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,593 per year, or $45.5 per hour.

Project Engineer

TERRACON

Ashburn, VA • On-site

$102K - $159K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago


Terracon rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 119 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

49th of 72 rated business consultants


Job description


Provide geotechnical engineering and consulting services for a broad array of projects and clients. This may include performing and/or leading field investigations, engineering analysis, calculations, and recommendations, design and development of plans and specifications, observation and inspection, and the writing, preparation, and review of related reports for the services provided. Review drawings and construction to assure compliance with plans and specifications. Prepare proposals and cost estimates, track and evaluate project progress, budgets, and recommend changes. Research and resolve design and construction problems. Assign, review, and evaluate laboratory or field data for inclusion in reports. Apply sound engineering principles and be able to communicate complex engineering issues and concepts to technical and non-technical clients and project teams. Services may be provided for existing or proposed projects in a variety of sectors, including for example public works, transportation, commercial, communications, energy, and industrial.
Responsibilities
  • Follow safety rules, guidelines and standards for all projects. Participate in pre-task planning. Report any safety issues or concerns to management.
  • Provide and lead continuous quality monitoring and improvement on projects. Monitor and promote quality standards and practices.
  • Provide consistent quality standards on project and proposal delivery.
  • Career level, fully competent engineering professional with responsibility for managing detailed phases of projects with moderate size and complexity.
  • Independently perform a variety projects or selected segments of larger projects.
  • Plan, schedule, conduct, and/or coordinate detailed phases of assigned project work.
  • Work closely with senior-level project managers to gain additional project management experience for more complex and larger projects.
  • Make design, engineering, and construction recommendations, adaptations and modifications.
  • Prepare proposals and reports for small and large projects of varying complexity.
  • Perform quality control review of proposals written by others.
  • Evaluate complex laboratory and field data for inclusion in reports.
  • Serve as a technical adviser to junior-level project team members.
  • Interact directly with client and project team on developing scope of services, communicating project progress and findings and recommendations.
  • Write and prepare routine and complex engineering reports detailing services provided, findings, and recommendations.
  • Participate in marketing, sales and business development.
  • Supervise graduate, field and project engineering staff.
  • Work under the supervision of a Terracon Authorized Project Reviewer.

Qualifications
Requirements:
  • Bachelor's degree in Civil or Geotechnical Engineering.
  • Minimum 5-8 years' experience.
  • Master's degree in Geotechnical engineering preferred.
  • Valid driver's license with acceptable violation history.
  • Professional Engineer (PE) registration.

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
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.

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