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Senior Geophysicist Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

TERRACON

Senior Geophysicist

Sacramento, CA

Oversee and provide near-surface geophysical (geophysics) technical expertise in the management of an experienced technical regional team. Provide direction and lead efforts to grow revenue ...

TERRACON

Senior Geophysicist

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$102K - $158K/yr

Oversee and provide near-surface geophysical (geophysics) technical expertise in the management of an experienced technical regional team. Provide direction and lead efforts to grow revenue ...

Terracon

Senior Geophysicist

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$120.80 - $187.20/hr

Oversee and provide near-surface geophysical (geophysics) technical expertise in the management of an experienced technical regional team. Provide direction and lead efforts to grow revenue ...

Terra AI

Senior Geologist

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$185K - $250K/yr

The company's platform integrates geological, geophysical, and drilling data into intelligent ... Role We are seeking a Senior Geologist to help lead geological interpretation and mineral systems ...

Terra AI

Senior Geologist

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$185 - $250/hr

The company's platform integrates geological, geophysical, and drilling data into intelligent ... Role We are seeking a Senior Geologist to help lead geological interpretation and mineral systems ...

Terra AI

Senior Geologist

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$185K - $250K/yr

The company's platform integrates geological, geophysical, and drilling data into intelligent ... Role We are seeking a Senior Geologist to help lead geological interpretation and mineral systems ...

Exponent Inc.

Senior Geologist (MS/PhD)

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$115K - $135K/yr

Licensed professional Geologist (PG) or Geophysicist (PGP) in at least one state in at least one ... At the Associate and Senior Associate level, total compensation includes base salary, bi-weekly ...

Exponent Inc.

Senior Geologist (MS/PhD)

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$115 - $135/hr

Licensed professional Geologist (PG) or Geophysicist (PGP) in at least one state in at least one ... At the Associate and Senior Associate level, total compensation includes base salary, bi-weekly ...

Vector Atomic

Senior Rust Software Engineer

Pleasanton, CA

$136K - $179K/yr

... geophysical exploration, and telecommunications. Our team of engineers, scientists, software ... As a Senior Rust Software Engineer, you will serve as a technical leader within a rapidly growing ...

Vector Atomic

Senior Rust Software Engineer

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$136K - $179K/yr

... geophysical exploration, and telecommunications. Our team of engineers, scientists, software ... As a Senior Rust Software Engineer, you will serve as a technical leader within a rapidly growing ...

IONQ

Senior Rust Software Engineer

Pleasanton, CA · On-site

$136K - $179K/yr

... geophysical exploration, and telecommunications. Our team of engineers, scientists, software ... As a Senior Rust Software Engineer, you will serve as a technical leader within a rapidly growing ...

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All JobsGeophysicist JobsSenior Geophysicist JobsSenior Geophysicist Jobs in California

Senior Geophysicist information

See California salary details

$24.7K

$79.2K

$161.4K

How much do senior geophysicist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior geophysicist in California is $79,236.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,000.00 and $101,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a senior geophysicist?

Senior Geophysicists are experienced professionals who study the physical properties of the Earth to help locate natural resources, assess environmental hazards, and understand geological processes. They use advanced equipment and techniques, such as seismic, magnetic, and gravity surveys, to collect and analyze data. In addition to conducting research, Senior Geophysicists often lead teams, manage projects, and interpret complex datasets to provide crucial insights for industries like oil and gas, mining, and environmental consulting.

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

To thrive as a Senior Geophysicist, you need in-depth knowledge of geophysical principles, data interpretation, and a relevant degree (often a master's or PhD) in geophysics or a related field. Proficiency with industry-standard software such as Petrel, Kingdom, and seismic processing tools, as well as familiarity with data acquisition systems, is highly valued. Strong problem-solving, project management, and communication skills distinguish top performers who can collaborate effectively and lead multidisciplinary teams. These capabilities are essential for delivering accurate subsurface evaluations, optimizing exploration strategies, and ensuring project success.

How does a senior geophysicist typically collaborate with multidisciplinary teams during exploration projects?

As a Senior Geophysicist, you will frequently work alongside geologists, reservoir engineers, and drilling teams to integrate seismic and other geophysical data into exploration strategies. Collaboration often involves leading technical discussions, presenting interpretations, and ensuring data is accurately incorporated into models. This role also requires clear communication to translate complex geophysical findings into actionable insights for broader project teams. Effective teamwork is essential to optimize resource identification and minimize exploration risks.

What is the difference between Senior Geophysicist vs Geophysicist?

AspectSenior GeophysicistGeophysicist
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Geophysics, extensive experienceBachelor's or Master's in Geophysics or related field
Work EnvironmentLead projects, mentor junior staff, strategic planningData collection, analysis, fieldwork, reporting
Employer & Industry UsageOil & gas, mining, environmental firms, researchSimilar industries, entry to mid-level roles

The main difference between a Senior Geophysicist and a Geophysicist lies in experience, responsibilities, and leadership. Senior Geophysicists typically lead projects, mentor teams, and have more strategic roles, while Geophysicists focus on data analysis and fieldwork. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds, but the senior position demands more experience and expertise.

Are senior geophysicist jobs in demand?

Senior geophysicist jobs are in demand in the oil and gas, mineral exploration, and environmental sectors due to ongoing resource development and exploration activities. The role requires expertise in seismic data analysis, geophysical modeling, and often a master's or Ph.D. in geophysics or related fields. Employment opportunities are expected to grow with industry investments and technological advancements in geophysical methods.

Who hires senior geophysicists?

Senior geophysicists are typically hired by oil and gas exploration companies, energy firms, environmental consulting agencies, and geological service providers. They are employed to analyze subsurface data using seismic and geophysical tools to support resource exploration and development projects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Geophysicist jobs in California?

The most popular types of Geophysicist jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Senior Geophysicist jobs in California?

For Senior Geophysicist jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Senior Geophysicist jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Senior Geophysicist jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Senior Geophysicist jobs?

Cities in California with the most Senior Geophysicist job openings:

Senior Geophysicist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Geophysicist job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,236 per year, or $38.1 per hour.

Senior Geophysicist

TERRACON

Sacramento, CA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago

Terracon rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 119 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

49th of 72 rated business consultants

Job description

Oversee and provide near-surface geophysical (geophysics) technical expertise in the management of an experienced technical regional team. Provide direction and lead efforts to grow revenue, standardize policies, practices and procedures among our eight geophysical employees in the Northern California Region. Monitor the performance of teams and facilitate training, site visits, quality audits and safety incident investigation. Will participate in marketing activities and recruitment of new team members. This role can be based out of our Sacramento office.

Terracon is a 100 percent employee-owned multidiscipline consulting firm comprised of more than 8,000 curious minds focused on solving engineering and technical challenges from more than 200 locations nationwide. Since 1965, Terracon has evolved into a successful multi-discipline firm specializing in environmental, facilities, geotechnical, and materials services. Terracon's growth is due to our talented employee-owners exceeding expectations in client service and growing their careers with new and exciting opportunities in the marketplace. Terracon was recognized as the #1 firm in Asbestos and Lead Abatement.

Terracon's vision of "Together, we are best at people" is demonstrated through our excellent compensation and benefits package. Based on eligibility, role and job status, we offer many programs including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k) plan, paid time off and holidays, education reimbursement, and various bonus programs.
Terracon's geophysical services provide valuable information about the subsurface of our clients' project sites faster, safer, and more sustainably than traditional drilling with little or no site disturbance. With the most geophysical professionals and the largest fleet of near-surface equipment compared to competitors, our experts draw on a wide range of screening tools to provide our clients with necessary geophysical data for the exploration, planning, design, locating, and/or evaluation of a wide variety of sites to increase accuracy and manage project risk.
  • Bachelor's degree in technical discipline practiced by the Firm including Engineering, Environmental Science 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 designation based on state requirements.

Preferred Certification:

  • Terracon Authorized Project Reviewer status preferred.
  • Oversee, provide leadership and direction and ensure consistent operations and practices of regional teams for geophysics by providing training, inspections, and workforce/equipment utilization.
  • Partner with National Manager, Director of Regional Operations, and Operations Managers across region to grow revenue, and develop and deliver coordinated and consistent services.
  • Monitor the performance of regional team through site visits, safety incident investigation, quality audits and metrics.
  • Execute the initiatives of the geophysics business for the offices in the Northern California Region.
  • Monitor safety, quality, and production of regional teams and provide recommendations for improvement to National Manager and Director of Regional Operations.
  • Partner with regional marketing and oversee geophysical marketing activities for the Northern California Region including pricing and planning.
  • Lead, participate and provide input in the recruitment, interview and selection process for team members in the offices and Northern California Region.
  • Manage risk related to projects. Ensure contracts are signed and fully executed prior to commencing work. Monitor adherence to corporate risk policies and practices. Hold team accountable for mitigating or eliminating risk.
  • Communicates safety initiatives, rules and guidelines for Office or Region. Holds Managers and Employees accountable for following safety rules and guidelines.
  • Promote continuous quality monitoring and improvement on projects. Ensure best practices are being followed and hold Managers accountable for quality control standards.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

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