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Geophysics Phd Jobs (NOW HIRING)

DUG

Graduate Geophysicist

Houston, TX

BSc, MSc or PhD in Geophysics, Geoscience, Physics, Maths, Electrical Engineering with a Physics background, or equivalent. * High level of computer proficiency. * Excellent communication skills ...

Terracon

Senior Geophysicist

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$120.80 - $187.20/hr

... or Geology/Geophysics. * Minimum 8-11 years' experience. * Master's degree preferred or PhD preferred. * Valid driver's license with acceptable violation history. * Professional Geophysicist ...

TERRACON

Senior Geophysicist

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$120K - $187K/yr

... or Geology/Geophysics. * Minimum 8-11 years' experience. * Master's degree preferred or PhD preferred. * Valid driver's license with acceptable violation history. * Professional Geophysicist ...

TERRACON

Senior Geophysicist

Sacramento, CA · On-site

... or Geology/Geophysics. * Minimum 8-11 years' experience. * Master's degree preferred or PhD preferred. * Valid driver's license with acceptable violation history. * Professional Geophysicist ...

Leidos

Geophysical Navigation Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$87K - $157K/yr

Master's or PhD Degree in one of the majors listed above. * Experience with one or more of the sensors listed above, especially inertial sensors. * Experience with geophysical map-matching algorithms ...

Leidos

Geophysical Navigation Engineer

Huntsville, AL

$87K - $157K/yr

Master's or PhD Degree in one of the majors listed above. * Experience with one or more of the sensors listed above, especially inertial sensors. * Experience with geophysical map-matching algorithms ...

Applied Physics

Seismologist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

PhD in Seismology, Geophysics, Earth Science, Data Science related to Geophysics, or related field * Experience with high-performance computing, numerical earthquake simulation (e.g. dynamic rupture ...

Applied Physics

Seismologist

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

PhD in Seismology, Geophysics, Earth Science, Data Science related to Geophysics, or related field * Experience with high-performance computing, numerical earthquake simulation (e.g. dynamic rupture ...

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Geophysics Phd information

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$48.5K

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$144K

How much do geophysics phd jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for geophysics phd 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 Phd vs Geophysical Data Analyst?

AspectGeophysics PhdGeophysical Data Analyst
Required CredentialsDoctoral degree in geophysics or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in geophysics, geology, or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch institutions, universities, exploration companiesOil & gas companies, consulting firms, energy sector
Industry UsageAcademic research, advanced exploration, scientific studiesData interpretation, seismic analysis, reporting

The main difference is that a Geophysics Phd involves advanced research and theoretical work, often in academia or research institutions, while a Geophysical Data Analyst focuses on practical data analysis and interpretation within industry settings. The Phd prepares individuals for research-heavy roles, whereas the Data Analyst role emphasizes technical skills in data processing and reporting.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Geophysics PhD, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Geophysics PhD, you need advanced knowledge in earth sciences, physics, and mathematics, supported by a doctoral degree in geophysics or a related field. Proficiency with data analysis software (such as MATLAB or Python), geophysical modeling tools, and experience with instrumentation or field methods is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help you stand out in this role. These skills are crucial for conducting innovative research, interpreting complex data, and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams in both academic and industry settings.

What are some typical challenges faced by Geophysics PhD holders when transitioning from academia to industry roles?

Geophysics PhD holders often encounter challenges when moving from academia to industry, such as adapting to faster-paced project timelines and shifting from theoretical research to practical, results-driven work. Industry roles usually require strong collaboration with multidisciplinary teams and an ability to communicate complex findings to non-specialists. Additionally, industry projects may prioritize applied solutions and commercial value over pure scientific discovery, which can require a shift in mindset and approach.

What is a Geophysics PhD?

A Geophysics PhD is an advanced doctoral degree focused on the study of the physical processes and properties of the Earth using quantitative methods and scientific principles. This program involves conducting original research in areas such as seismology, magnetism, gravity, and earth structure, often using mathematical modeling, fieldwork, and laboratory experiments. Graduates with a PhD in Geophysics often pursue careers in academia, research institutions, government agencies, or industries like oil and gas, environmental consulting, and natural hazard assessment.
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What cities are hiring for Geophysics Phd jobs? Cities with the most Geophysics Phd job openings:
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What job categories do people searching Geophysics Phd jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Geophysics Phd jobs are:
Geophysics Phd jobs near you
Infographic showing various Geophysics Phd job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Internship, 94% Full Time, and 3% Part Time. Highlights an 89% In-person, 8% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,411 per year, or $45.9 per hour.

Senior Geophysics Scientist

Savannah River National Laboratory

Aiken, SC • On-site

$77K - $106K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

Job description


The Senior Research Scientist in Geophysics will lead advanced research and field programs focused on the development, application, and interpretation of near-surface geophysical methods, with an emphasis on Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) and Spectral Induced Polarization (SIP). The successful candidate will provide technical leadership, cultivate cross-disciplinary collaborations, and contribute innovative approaches for subsurface characterization in support of environmental, hydrological, engineering, and energy-related research initiatives.
Impact of the Role:
This position plays a critical role in advancing subsurface imaging technologies and enabling improved understanding of complex environmental and geologic processes. Research outcomes will directly support strategic priorities in environmental stewardship, legacy waste management, resource characterization, and sustainable infrastructure development.
Responsibilities
  • Lead original research that advances methodologies, data processing techniques, and interpretive frameworks for ERT and SIP.
  • Design, plan, and execute field investigations leveraging multi-electrode resistivity and induced polarization systems.
  • Develop and implement forward and inverse modeling workflows to quantify subsurface properties and improve uncertainty characterization.
  • Integrate ERT/SIP data with complementary geoscience, hydrological, and environmental datasets to support multi-physics interpretation.
  • Publish high-impact research in peer-reviewed journals and present results at national and international conferences.
  • Provide mentorship to postdoctoral researchers, graduate students, and technical staff working in geophysical methods.
  • Engage with project sponsors, collaborators, and stakeholders to scope research needs, translate findings, and support decision-making.
  • Contribute to the development of proposals and competitive research funding opportunities.
  • Ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality execution of field operations, data management, and geophysical instrumentation maintenance.

Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications:
  • PhD in Geophysics, Earth Sciences, Applied Physics, or a closely related discipline.
  • Extensive experience designing, conducting, and interpreting ERT and SIP surveys in research or applied settings.
  • Demonstrated expertise in geophysical inversion, numerical modeling, and advanced data processing.
  • Strong publication record showcasing contributions to near-surface or environmental geophysics.
  • Proficiency with widely used geophysical software platforms and scientific programming languages (e.g., Python, MATLAB, R).
  • Demonstrated ability to lead research teams and collaborate across disciplines.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain security clearance, for which U.S. Citizenship is legally required.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience applying ERT and SIP to environmental remediation, groundwater characterization, vadose-zone processes, or geotechnical investigations.
  • Experience with 3D inversion, time-lapse monitoring, or multi-method geophysical integration.
  • Familiarity with machine learning or data assimilation techniques applied to geophysical datasets.
  • Track record of securing external research funding.
  • Strong stakeholder engagement skills, particularly with government agencies, laboratories, or industry partners.

About Us
"We put science to work!"
Savannah River National Laboratory (SRNL) is a multi-program laboratory applying state of the art science and practical, high-value, cost-effective solutions to complex technical problems to protect the nation. Located at the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Savannah River Site (SRS) in Aiken SC, the laboratory develops and deploys innovative technologies to address some of the nation's environmental, energy, and national security challenges.
Battelle Savannah River Alliance (BSRA) is constantly assessing trends to provide the best possible benefits to our workforce. We also negotiate cost effective premiums that will meet the needs of our evolving workforce.
Some of the *Benefits offered to employees include:
*Benefits vary based upon employment status
  • Highly competitive Medical, Dental, and Vision options including HSA options with company provided seed
  • Short- & Long-Term Disability (company paid)
  • Life Insurance Non-Contributary 1X salary (company paid)
  • AD&D Non-contributary 1x salary (company paid)
  • Savings & Investment plan:
    • Qualified Non-Elective Company Contribution of 5% each pay period with immediate vesting
    • Company match 50 cents/dollar up to 8% (5 yrs. vesting in company match)
  • Contributory Life Insurance up to 5x Salary with $1M Cap
  • Contributory AD&D (employee, spouse and children)
  • Paid Time Off
  • Employee Assistance Plan
  • SRNL offers a competitive relocation package to ease the transition process. Domestic and international relocation assistance is available for certain positions.

For more information about our benefits, working here, and living here, visit the "About" tab at www.srnl.doe.gov.
BSRA is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. BSRA is also committed to making our workplace accessible to individuals with disabilities and will provide reasonable accommodations, upon request, for individuals to participate in the application and hiring process. Please email us at SRNLRecruiting@srnl.doe.gov with any questions regarding the hiring process or to request an accommodation.

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