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Seismic Observer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Geotechnical Numerical Modeler - Seismic Expertise & FLAC GRI is seeking a Geotechnical Numerical ... construction observation as needed. * Engage in client networking and firm outreach activities.

Geotechnical Numerical Modeler - Seismic Expertise & FLAC GRI is seeking a Geotechnical Numerical ... construction observation as needed. * Engage in client networking and firm outreach activities.

Scientific Data Analyst

Melbourne, FL · On-site

$75K - $130K/yr

... seismic phases. o Understanding of digital signal processing including spectral analysis. o Observational ability to interpret time series waveform data, identify seismic, infrasonic, and ...

Scientific Data Analyst

Melbourne, FL · On-site

$75K - $130K/yr

... seismic phases. o Understanding of digital signal processing including spectral analysis. o Observational ability to interpret time series waveform data, identify seismic, infrasonic, and ...

Perform site visits during construction oversight to observe conditions and ongoing construction ... Basic understanding of seismic design considerations in California, including development of ...

Perform site visits during construction oversight to observe conditions and ongoing construction ... Basic understanding of seismic design considerations in California, including development of ...

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How much do seismic observer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for seismic observer 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 does a typical work schedule look like for a Seismic Observer, and what kind of environments do they usually work in?

Seismic Observers often work in field-based environments, such as remote or rural locations where seismic surveys are conducted, requiring extended periods away from home. Work schedules are typically organized in shifts, with rotations that might involve several weeks in the field followed by time off. The job can involve irregular hours, including early mornings or overnight work, to ensure round-the-clock monitoring and data collection during survey operations. Teamwork is essential, as Observers regularly collaborate with field crews, geophysicists, and project managers to ensure safe, efficient, and accurate data acquisition. This dynamic environment offers valuable hands-on experience and opportunities to advance into more specialized roles within geophysical or exploration teams.

What is a Seismic Observer job?

A Seismic Observer is responsible for monitoring and recording seismic activity during geophysical surveys, often for oil, gas, or environmental studies. They deploy and maintain seismic sensors, ensure accurate data collection, and troubleshoot equipment issues in the field. This role typically involves working in remote locations under various weather conditions. Observers must have strong technical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work in a team to ensure high-quality seismic data acquisition.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Seismic Observer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Seismic Observer, you need a solid grounding in geophysics or earth sciences, basic data analysis skills, and experience with seismic data acquisition, often supported by relevant fieldwork or certifications like H2S safety. Familiarity with seismic acquisition equipment, GPS technology, and data logging software is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, and effective communication are valuable soft skills that help ensure seamless field operations and high-quality data collection. These skills and qualifications are critical for ensuring the accuracy, safety, and reliability of subsurface data used in geotechnical or energy exploration projects.

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What are the most commonly searched types of Seismic Observer jobs? The most popular types of Seismic Observer jobs are:
What states have the most Seismic Observer jobs? States with the most job openings for Seismic Observer jobs include:
GEOPHYSICIST

GEOPHYSICIST

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

Patrick Air Force Base, FL • On-site

$148K/yr

Other

Posted 16 days ago


U.S. Department Of Defense rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 518 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 46 rated military and defense


Job description

Click on "Learn more about this agency" button below for IMPORTANT additional information.
The primary purpose of this position is to define and conduct original geophysical R&D in the general topic area of nuclear explosion monitoring. Such work may include both theoretical and empirical investigations of explosion and earthquake source physics, studies of geophysical wave propagation, development of data processing algorithms and software, especially those involving digital signal processing.Qualifications:This is a GG-14 position in the Defense Civilian Intelligence Personnel System (DCIPS). The GG-14 duties for the "Professional" work category are at the "Senior" work level and are equivalent to those at the GS-14 level. The selectee's salary will be set within the grade equivalent to a GS/GG grade based on the selectee's qualifications in relation to the job.
In order to qualify, you must meet the specialized experience requirements described in the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards for General Schedule Positions, Professional and Scientific Positions.
BASIC REQUIREMENTS: Geophysics Series, 1313
A. Degree: that included at least 30 semester hours in mathematics (including calculus) and the physical sciences (geophysics, physics, engineering, geology, astronomy, meteorology, electronics, etc.).
OR
B. Combination of education and experience -- courses as shown in A above, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
In addition to meeting the basic requirement above, to qualify for this position you must also meet the qualification requirements listed below:
EXPERIENCE REQUIRED: Your resume must reflect the quality level of experience which demonstrates the possession of the knowledge, skills, abilities, and competencies necessary for successful job performance required for this position. Examples of creditable experience include: Extensive knowledge of geophysics, especially explosion seismology and seismic data processing. The incumbent possesses and uses expert knowledge to develop new theories, sensor networks, and or processing algorithms to analyze seismic, hydroacoustic, and infrasonic data. Incumbent understands and assimilates highly complex technical information relating to explosion seismology and applies this information to compare and evaluate scientific theory versus observed results. Note: Creditable experience may include previous military experience, experience gained in the private sector, or experience gained in another government agency.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs): Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the following areas:
1. Knowledge of AFTAC, DOD, and AF policies, entities, missions, resources, operations, operations, capabilities, and requirements as related to assigned program(s) and/or project(s).
2. Professional experience in the general area of geophysical sciences, either in the laboratory or the field, or a combination thereof. Possible examples include: data-processing algorithms and computer software for the processing of seismic, hydroacoustic, or infrasound data; expertise in software coding with commonly-used high-level languages; design, planning and execution or a geophysical survey or field experiment; Expertise in observational seismology, with the ability to recognize various seismic phases at all distance ranges.
3. Ability to communicate scientific and technical ideas, as shown by the publication of peer-reviewed articles in open scientific literature, or the presentation of work at scientific conference, symposia, and workshops.
4. Must have broad awareness of technological developments in the geophysical sciences and a willingness to integrate information from various disciplines which includes an ability to work with teams, international agencies, and national customers to achieve mission goals.
5. Must be able to obtain and maintain a security clearance. Must demonstrate and understanding of security procedures and a willingness to protect classified information.
CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT CONTINUED:
1. Position is designated special-sensitive and requires eligibility for access to Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI), other intelligence-related Special Sensitive information, or involvement in Top Secret Special Access Programs (SAP) to fully perform the duties and responsibilities of the position. A non-disclosure agreement must be signed. Must be able to obtain and maintain a Top-Secret Security Clearance with access to Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI)
2. Drug Testing: This position has been designated by the Air Force as a Testing Designated Position (TDP) under the Air Force Civilian Testing Program. Employee must pass initial and periodic short notice drug testing. Illegal drug use by employees in sensitive positions presents a clear threat to the mission of the Air Force, national security, and public safety.
PART-TIME OR UNPAID EXPERIENCE: Credit will be given for appropriate unpaid and or part-time work. You must clearly identify the duties and responsibilities in each position held and the total number of hours per week.
VOLUNTEER WORK EXPERIENCE: Refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service Programs (i.e., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student and social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge and skills that can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.Education:IF USING EDUCATION TO QUALIFY: If position has a positive degree requirement or education forms the basis for qualifications, you MUST submit transcriptswith the application. Official transcripts are not required at the time of application; however, if position has a positive degree requirement, qualifying based on education alone or in combination with experience, transcripts must be verified prior to appointment. An accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education must accredit education. Click here to check accreditation.
FOREIGN EDUCATION: Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the requirements. You must show proof the education credentials have been deemed to be at least equivalent to that gained in conventional U.S. education program. It is your responsibility to provide such evidence when applying.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
This position is a Defense Civilian Intelligence Personnel Systems (DCIPS) position implemented under Section 504, Title V of Public Law 99-569, Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 1987, as codified in Sec 1601, Chap 83 of Title 10 United States Code which sets forth Air Force policies and procedures for DCIPS. This position is in the Excepted Service.
DoD Components with DCIPS positions apply Veterans' Preference to preference eligible candidates as defined by Section 2108 of Title 5 USC, in accordance with the procedures provided in DoD Instruction 1400.25, Volume 2005, DCIPS Employment and Placement. If you are a veteran claiming veterans' preference, as defined by section 2108 of Title 5 U.S.C., you must submit documents verifying your eligibility with your application package.
For additional information on DCIPS, click hereEmployment Type: OTHER

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