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Seismic Observer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Arup

Senior Geotechnical Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

Proven experience in geotechnical project planning, analyses, design, construction observation, and preparation of deliverables * Working knowledge of seismic analysis and codes * Familiarity with ...

Divis Consulting

Geotechnical Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

Whether it's analyzing the seismic stability of a high-rise or managing soil conditions for public ... observation. * Thrive in a small company environment, where your contributions make a big ...

GeoEngineers

Project Geotechnical Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$103K - $146K/yr

Construction observation and reporting may also be required at times in this role. Essential Duties ... spreading evaluations, seismic slope stability, ground improvement design, and nonlinear ...

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Seismic Observer information

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$48.5K

$95.4K

$144K

How much do seismic observer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 7, 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.

More about Seismic Observer jobs
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Seismic Observer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Seismic Observer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,411 per year, or $45.9 per hour.
Staff 3 Professional (Engineering Discipline)

Staff 3 Professional (Engineering Discipline)

Anchor QEA

Seattle, WA • On-site

$131K - $146K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

COMPANY WEBSITE POSTING
Anchor QEA, Inc. is hiring a Staff 3 Professional (Engineering Discipline) in Seattle, WA. 40 hours/week. Hybrid option available. Employee must reside within the Seattle, WA MSA.
JOB DUTIES:
  • Develop, implement, & lead geotechnical field investigations & laboratory testing plans for soil/sediment characterization and design for upland and in-water projects.
  • Support construction observation and inspection (e.g., monitoring installation of deep foundations, ground support, ground improvements).

Conduct geotechnical analyses (e.g. slope stability, settlement, seismic deformations), finite element modeling & foundation/retaining structure design.
  • Prepare geotechnical engineering calculations, cost estimates, & design drawings/specifications for projects involving upland and sediment remediation, water resources, waterfront, restoration, and structural design.
  • Provide geotechnical baseline reports, sampling and analysis plans, RI/FS reports, & design documents (e.g. technical specs).
  • Support business development and mentor junior staff.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENT:
  • Bachelor's degree (or foreign equivalent) in Civil Engineering (geotechnical focus), Coastal Engineering, or related field.
  • 5 years of progressive experience in geotechnical engineering or related role with geotechnical component in civil or coastal engineering.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENT:
Up to 30% domestic travel.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • 3 years exp. using specific geotechnical engineering software (e.g., Settle 3D, Slide, CPeT, CLiq, LPILE, SLOPE/W, Deepsoil).
  • 1 year exp. programming (SQL, MathCAD).
  • 3 years exp. providing oversight of geotechnical field investigation programs (borings, CPTs, etc.), completing & overseeing technical analyses (particularly when dealing with nearshore/offshore sediments) & preparing technical documents (reports, project specifications).
  • 3 years exp. developing & executing field investigation and lab testing plans at upland and/or in-water project sites.
  • 1 year exp. performing geotechnical studies & design of projects located within nearshore and aquatic environments.
  • 3 years exp. preparing qualitative and quantitative analyses of geotechnical data, including slope stability analyses, settlement evaluations, seismic deformation analyses, and foundation and retaining structure design.
  • 5 years exp. performing technical writing to support the preparation of sampling & analysis plans, geotechnical reports, RI/FS reports, & design documents, including technical specs.
  • 1 year exp. preparing or supporting the preparation of design documents, specifications, cost estimates, & engineering calculations.

PAY TRANSPARENCY: Wage ranges from $131,373.00 to $146,634 per year in Seattle, WA.
BENEFITS: Healthcare (medical, dental, vision, basic life, and AD&D ins), paid holidays (7 company & 2 floating per year), vacation (2 weeks accrued varies by level and tenure, sick and safe time (80 hours annually), and 401(k) plan with employer match. See https://anchorqea.com/careers/benefits/ for details.
Apply online on the Anchor QEA, Inc. website: https://www.anchorqea.com/careers/careers-open-positions/

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