ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Geophysics Salary Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Terra AI

Staff Geophysicist

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$185K - $250K/yr

Experience in applied or exploration geophysics * Strong experience with electromagnetic and/or ... In addition to base salary, total compensation may include performance bonus opportunities, equity ...

Terra AI

Staff Geophysicist

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$185K - $250K/yr

Experience in applied or exploration geophysics * Strong experience with electromagnetic and/or ... In addition to base salary, total compensation may include performance bonus opportunities, equity ...

ENSCO, Inc.

Geophysicist III

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$72K - $131K/yr

Qualifications Required: * BS degree in a physical science or related discipline (e.g., Geophysics ... No Salary Range $72,820.80-$131,331.20 USD REAL ID Requirement This position may require the ...

Parsons Corporation

Field Geophysicist

$22.93 - $40.14/hr

Four-year degree in geophysics, geology, or related field and 0+ years experience * Good written ... Salary Range: $22.93 - $40.14 We value our employees and want our employees to take care of their ...

Matador Resources

Geophysical Technician

Dallas, TX · On-site

DESCRIPTION: Matador is seeking candidates for a Geophysical Technician role that have prior ... salary commensurate with experience, performance incentives, plus medical and dental benefits ...

Matador Resources

Geophysical Technician

Dallas, TX · On-site

DESCRIPTION: Matador is seeking candidates for a Geophysical Technician role that have prior ... salary commensurate with experience, performance incentives, plus medical and dental benefits ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsGeophysics Salary Jobs

Geophysics Salary information

See salary details

$48.5K

$95.4K

$144K

How much do geophysics salary jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for geophysics salary 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.

Is geophysics well paid?

Geophysics is generally considered a well-paying field, with median salaries often exceeding national averages for science and engineering roles. Salaries vary based on experience, education, location, and industry, with specialized skills and advanced degrees increasing earning potential.

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

To thrive as a Geophysicist, you need a solid background in physics, geology, mathematics, and data analysis, usually supported by at least a bachelor's degree in geophysics or a related field. Familiarity with geophysical survey instruments, seismic software, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is often required, and certifications such as Professional Geoscientist (P.Geo.) can be advantageous. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are important soft skills for interpreting data and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These competencies are crucial for accurate subsurface analysis, successful project delivery, and advancing in the field.

What are some common career advancement paths for geophysicists within the industry?

Geophysicists often begin their careers in entry-level research or field positions, and with experience, they can progress to roles such as project manager, lead geophysicist, or technical specialist. Advancement opportunities may also include moving into senior consulting, management, or even academic and teaching positions. Many professionals further their careers by specializing in areas like seismic interpretation, environmental geophysics, or data analysis, often gaining additional certifications or advanced degrees along the way. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams and gaining experience in different sectors (such as oil and gas, environmental consulting, or government research) can also open up new paths for growth.

What is the highest paid Geophysicist?

The highest paid geophysicists typically work in the oil and gas industry, with senior roles such as lead geophysicist or chief geophysicist earning salaries exceeding $150,000 annually. Salaries vary based on experience, location, and specialization, with those in managerial or executive positions earning the most. Advanced skills in seismic interpretation and industry certifications can also contribute to higher compensation.

What profession makes $400,000 a year?

In the field of geophysics, professionals such as senior exploration geophysicists or those in executive roles at large energy or mineral companies can earn salaries around $400,000 annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and specialized skills in seismic imaging or data analysis. High earnings are typically associated with leadership positions, consulting, or work in high-demand industries requiring advanced technical expertise.

What is the average salary for a geophysicist?

The average salary for a geophysicist varies based on experience, education, industry, and location. In the United States, entry-level geophysicists typically earn between $55,000 and $75,000 annually, while experienced professionals can make upwards of $100,000 or more. Salaries may be higher in sectors such as oil and gas or in regions with strong demand for geophysical expertise. Advanced degrees and specialized skills can also lead to higher earnings.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

High-paying jobs that can reach $500,000 annually include senior executive roles such as CEOs and CFOs, specialized medical professionals like neurosurgeons, and successful entrepreneurs. Certain highly experienced professionals in finance, law, or technology with ownership stakes or bonuses may also earn this level of income. These roles typically require advanced skills, extensive experience, and often involve high levels of responsibility or risk.

What is the difference between Geophysics Salary vs Geoscientist Salary?

AspectGeophysics SalaryGeoscientist Salary
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Geophysics or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Geoscience or related field
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, data analysis, seismic surveysFieldwork, research, data interpretation
Employer & IndustryOil & gas, mining, environmental firmsEnvironmental agencies, energy companies, consulting

Both roles often require similar educational backgrounds and work environments, with salaries varying based on experience and industry. Geophysicists typically focus more on seismic data and subsurface exploration, while geoscientists may have broader roles in earth sciences. Understanding these differences can help job seekers target the right salary expectations and career paths.

More about Geophysics Salary jobs
What cities are hiring for Geophysics Salary jobs? Cities with the most Geophysics Salary job openings:
What states have the most Geophysics Salary jobs? States with the most job openings for Geophysics Salary jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Geophysics Salary jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Geophysics Salary jobs are:
Geophysics Salary jobs near you

Staff Geophysicist

Terra AI

Redwood City, CA • On-site

$185K - $250K/yr

Full-time

Posted 24 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 broadly capable applied geophysicist with exposure across multiple geophysical methods to help run and deliver geophysical modeling programs supporting mineral exploration initiatives. This role will work closely with Terra AI's technical teams to integrate geophysical modeling, probabilistic workflows, and geological interpretation into modern exploration decision-making.
  • QA/QC and process geophysical datasets acquired through external exploration programs
  • Build forward models and support geophysical interpretation workflows
  • Compare modeled and observed datasets to refine subsurface interpretations
  • Produce technical reports, visualizations, and exploration recommendations
  • Work within Python-based geophysical modeling environments and reproducible workflows
  • Collaborate closely with geologists and technical stakeholders across exploration programs
  • Support the continued development of scalable geophysical modeling workflows

Qualifications
  • Experience in applied or exploration geophysics
  • Strong experience with electromagnetic and/or potential field methods
  • Experience contributing to or leading geophysical modeling programs
  • Strong analytical or programming capabilities within Python-based environments
  • Familiarity with geophysical modeling tools such as SimPEG or similar platforms
  • Experience with geophysical data QA/QC and technical reporting
  • Exposure to inversion workflows, probabilistic modeling, or collaborative software development practices is considered beneficial

We recognize that exceptional geophysicists may come from a variety of technical, academic, and industry backgrounds. If your experience aligns strongly with the role, we encourage you to apply even if you do not meet every listed qualification.
Compensation & Benefits
$185,000 - $250,000 usd. + 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.

Apply