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Geophysics Graduate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Minimum Qualifications Master's degree with 18 or more graduate semester hours in geology, geosciences, geophysics, or earth science from a regionally accredited institution. Demonstrated successful ...

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Geophysics Graduate information

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$48.5K

$95.4K

$144K

How much do geophysics graduate jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for geophysics graduate in the United States is $95,411.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,000.00 and $112,000.00 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.
More about Geophysics Graduate jobs
What cities are hiring for Geophysics Graduate jobs? Cities with the most Geophysics Graduate job openings:
What states have the most Geophysics Graduate jobs? States with the most job openings for Geophysics Graduate jobs include:
Infographic showing various Geophysics Graduate job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,411 per year, or $45.9 per hour.

$50K/yr

Other

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

This announcement is being advertised as a Forest Service National Hiring effort to fill multiple vacancies. Positions may be filled at one or more of the duty locations included in this announcement. Final determination of the duty location will be made at the time of the job offer.
For additional information about the duties of this position, please contact Jorge Enriquez at jorge.enriquez@usda.gov.Qualifications:In order to qualify, you must meet the eligibility and qualifications requirements as defined below by the closing date of the announcement. For more information on the qualifications for this position, visit the Office of Personnel Management's General Schedule Qualification Standards.
Your application and resume must clearly show that you possess the experience requirements. Transcripts must be provided for qualifications based on education. Provide course descriptions as necessary.

Basic Requirement:
GS-1350 Series:

Degree: Successful completion of a full 4-year course of study in an accredited college or university leading to a bachelor's or higher degree that included a major field of study in: geology, plus 20 additional semester hours in any combination of mathematics, physics, chemistry, biological science, structural, chemical, civil, mining or petroleum engineering, computer science, planetary geology, comparative planetology, geophysics, meteorology, hydrology, oceanography, physical geography, marine geology, and cartography.
OR
Combination of education and experience -- course work as shown above, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
Acceptable experience may have been gained through geological field or laboratory work that provided a means of obtaining professional knowledge of the theory and application of the principles of geology and closely related sciences, e.g., geophysics, geochemistry, or hydrology. Such work generally must have involved making close observations, taking samples, handling various types of instruments and equipment, assembling geologic data from source materials, and analyzing and reporting findings orally and in writing. Experience that involved only one phase of geology work, e.g., collecting samples, would not be acceptable as providing the required professional knowledge of the theory and principles of geology. In some situations, professional scientific experience in other fields may be accepted in part as professional geological experience. Such experience must have been preceded by appropriate education in geology or by professional geological experience, and must have contributed directly and significantly to the applicant's professional geological competence. Examples include some positions in geophysics, mining engineering, soils science, physical oceanography, hydrology, climatology, biology, analytic or experimental chemistry, metallurgy, and comparable fields where the normal duties or results of investigations have been extended to the solution of geologic problems by the applicant. Ordinary functions of positions such as seismic, computer, petroleum or mining engineer, mine superintendent, or metallurgist generally are not considered professional geological experience. To receive credit for geological experience obtained in positions that are not full-time professional geological positions, the applicant is responsible for indicating clearly the actual time or percentage of time devoted to geologic duties within such positions, and for giving adequate descriptions of the geologic functions.
In addition to meeting the basic requirement listed above, you must also possess experience and/or directly related education in the amounts listed below.
Specialized Experience Requirement:
For the GS 07 level: Applicants must have one year specialized experience equivalent to the GS-05 in the Federal service. Specialized experience is defined as one or more of the following: Assisted in the preparation of documents related to geological studies/programs or mineral resource studies or assessments; Assisted in the routine observation, measurement, inventorying, and recording of scientific data used to support geological studies; and/or Gathered information and researching data for geological studies using a variety of established methods, procedures, and techniques where tasks involved research and analysis of data.
OR
One full year of graduate level education that is directly related;
OR
An appropriate combination of related graduate level education and specialized experience;
OR
Superior Academic Achievement (click the link to determine if you are eligible: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-policies/;
The education must have been obtained in an accredited college or university and demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to do the work.
For the GS 09 level: Applicants must have one year specialized experience equivalent to the GS-07 in the Federal service. Specialized experience is defined as one or more of the following: Collected, analyzed, and reviewed soil and rock sample data and reported findings in response to a geologic inquiry or as a result of reviewing a geologic map or report; Assisted with administering mineral locatable & saleable activities and provided standard data to higher level specialists; Assisted with inspecting mineral operations for compliance and resource impacts; and/or Conducted studies or investigations on projects where minerals and geology activities had an effect on development and/or management of forest resources.
OR
Successful completion of 2 years of progressively higher level related graduate-level education leading to a master's degree and the study was obtained.in an accredited college or university.
OR
An appropriate combination of specialized experience and education (only graduate education in excess of 18 semester hours may be used to qualify applicants for this grade level). The education must have been obtained in an accredited college or university and demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to do the work.
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.Education:See above for education that may be qualifying for the specific grade level.Employment Type: OTHER