ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Senior Seismic Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

ARA

Senior Research Seismologist

Arlington, VA · On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Acquire, process, and analyze seismic data to detect, locate, and discriminate natural and ... The motto, "Engineering and Science for Fun and Profit" sums up the ARA experience. The company ...

Nalley Consulting

Nuclear Engineer - Mid and Sr

Reston, VA · On-site

$102K - $122K/yr

Mid and Sr Location: Reston, VA Required Clearance: TS/SCI or Q clearance. CI poly required; those ... Seismic / earthquake * Physics * Computational science * Fission reactor engineering. Other desired ...

Nalley Consulting

Nuclear Engineer - Mid and Sr

Reston, VA · On-site

$102K - $122K/yr

Mid and Sr Location: Reston, VA Required Clearance: TS/SCI or Q clearance. CI poly required; those ... Seismic / earthquake * Physics * Computational science * Fission reactor engineering. Other desired ...

BB&E

Senior Geotechnical Engineer

Norfolk, VA · On-site

BB&E is seeking a dynamic and detail-oriented Senior Geotechnical Engineer to join our team ... Due to the varied design and construction techniques, geotechnical criteria, seismic activity ...

BB&E

Senior Geotechnical Engineer

Norfolk, VA · On-site

BB&E is seeking a dynamic and detail-oriented Senior Geotechnical Engineer to join our team ... Due to the varied design and construction techniques, geotechnical criteria, seismic activity ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsSeismic Engineer JobsSenior Seismic Engineer JobsSenior Seismic Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Senior Seismic Engineer information

What is a senior seismic engineer?

Senior Seismic Engineers are highly experienced professionals who specialize in analyzing, designing, and overseeing structures to ensure they can withstand seismic activities like earthquakes. They use advanced engineering principles and seismic codes to assess risks, develop earthquake-resistant structures, and retrofit existing buildings. In addition to technical analysis, they often manage teams, coordinate with other engineering disciplines, and provide guidance on seismic safety standards for large-scale infrastructure projects.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a senior seismic engineer?

To thrive as a Senior Seismic Engineer, you need an in-depth understanding of structural engineering, seismic analysis, and building codes, typically supported by a civil engineering degree and a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Proficiency with seismic modeling software such as ETABS, SAP2000, and AutoCAD, as well as familiarity with relevant standards like ASCE 7, is essential. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and leadership skills help you manage complex projects and coordinate multidisciplinary teams. These competencies are crucial to ensuring the safety, compliance, and resilience of structures in earthquake-prone regions.

How does a senior seismic engineer collaborate with multidisciplinary teams during large infrastructure projects?

Senior Seismic Engineers often work closely with structural engineers, geotechnical experts, architects, and project managers to ensure that infrastructure designs meet seismic safety standards. They play a key role in reviewing site conditions, conducting seismic risk assessments, and recommending design modifications to enhance resilience. Regular coordination meetings, detailed reporting, and technical presentations are common, enabling all team members to stay aligned on project goals and regulatory requirements. This collaborative environment fosters professional growth and ensures that complex projects are delivered safely and efficiently.

What is the difference between Senior Seismic Engineer vs Geotechnical Engineer?

AspectSenior Seismic EngineerGeotechnical Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Civil/Structural Engineering, seismic certificationsBachelor's or Master's in Civil Engineering, geotechnical certifications
Work EnvironmentDesigning seismic-resistant structures, analyzing earthquake impactsSoil analysis, foundation design, site investigations
Industry UsageConstruction, infrastructure, earthquake-prone regionsConstruction, mining, environmental projects

While both roles require civil engineering backgrounds and related certifications, Senior Seismic Engineers focus on earthquake-resistant design and seismic analysis, whereas Geotechnical Engineers specialize in soil and foundation assessments. They often collaborate but serve distinct functions within construction and infrastructure projects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Seismic Engineer jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Seismic Engineer jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Senior Seismic Engineer jobs in Virginia?

For Senior Seismic Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Senior Seismic Engineer jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Senior Seismic Engineer jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Senior Seismic Engineer jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Senior Seismic Engineer job openings:

Senior Seismic Engineer jobs near you

Senior Research Seismologist

Arlington, VA • On-site

ARA
See more jobs at ARAexternal

$120K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA) is seeking an accomplished Senior Research Seismologist to join the Applied Algorithms, Modeling, and Assessment (AMA) Division. In this role, you will work within the Geophysical Models, Signatures, and Systems (GEMSS) Group, a team that conducts cutting-edge research in support of U.S. nuclear monitoring missions and other critical national security objectives.
We are looking for a candidate with a strong record of leading advanced seismic research and a deep understanding of computational geophysics, sophisticated signal analysis, and numerical modeling. The ideal individual is motivated by applying geophysics to detect, locate, characterize, and discriminate underground nuclear explosions and other events of national security interest. You will collaborate with a diverse set of scientists and engineers while contributing both hands-on technical excellence and leadership in developing innovative solutions.
Salary Range: $120K-$160K
Key Responsibilities
  • Lead and execute advanced scientific research addressing complex geophysical challenges relevant to nuclear test monitoring and other defense missions.
  • Acquire, process, and analyze seismic data to detect, locate, and discriminate natural and anthropogenic signals.
  • Perform sophisticated time-series and spectral-domain analyses using advanced statistical and computational approaches.
  • Design research studies and develop innovative algorithms, tools, and workflows for data processing, signal detection, and event characterization.
  • Conduct numerical modeling and simulation of seismic wavefields (e.g., finite/spectral element methods, FK analysis, 3D ray tracing).
  • Produce high-quality technical reports, publications, proposals, and presentations for scientific, programmatic, and sponsor audiences.
  • Stay current on emerging techniques, technologies, and scientific advances in geophysics, monitoring systems, and signal analysis.
  • Engage directly with clients to understand technical requirements and deliver effective solutions, including through proposal development.

Required Qualifications
  • B.S. in Geophysics/Seismology, or a closely related field, and at least 8-10 years of direct experience in earthquake or explosion seismology.
  • Proven experience leading basic and applied research and development (R&D) projects to solve complex scientific problems in seismology funded by U.S. Government agencies, commercial firms, or other organizations.
  • Recognized as an emerging expert in nuclear monitoring seismology with the ability to perform advanced data analyses independently.
  • Exceptional analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex data and generate compelling visualizations that support scientific conclusions.
  • Demonstrated proficiency with modern numerical modeling tools and the pre-/post-processing of seismic floating-point data (e.g., Python and scientific libraries, MATLAB, Linux shell scripting, C/C++/Fortran/Julia or other high-performance computing languages).
  • Experience working with Linux-based high-performance computing systems.
  • Highly self-motivated with a demonstrated ability to work independently on complex, high-impact projects.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills, including the ability to collaborate effectively and present complex concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences.
  • U.S. Citizenship Required.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. national security clearance.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • M.S. in Geophysics/Seismology, or a closely related field, and at least 6-8 years of direct experience in earthquake or explosion seismology.
  • Ph.D. in Geophysics/Seismology, or a closely related field, and at least 3-5 years of direct experience in earthquake or explosion seismology.
  • Field experience with geophysical instrumentation and data acquisition, including DAS.
  • Experience mentoring junior scientists.

About Us:
Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA) is an employee-owned international research and engineering company known for providing technically superior solutions to complex and challenging problems in the physical sciences. We were founded in Albuquerque, NM, in 1979 and currently employ over 2,240 staff members in ARA offices throughout the U.S. and Canada. We provide our clients with broad and expanding technical expertise in defense, civil, and health technologies, computer software, and simulation, systems analysis, environmental technologies, and testing and measurement.
ARA also takes pride in its culture, which values innovation & experimentation. At ARA, employees are our greatest assets, and we give our employees the tools, training, and opportunities to take active roles as owners. The motto, "Engineering and Science for Fun and Profit" sums up the ARA experience. The company recognizes that employee-ownership spurs greater creativity and initiative along with higher performance and client satisfaction levels.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

Apply