1

Trainee Geophysicist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... trainee position. Minimum Qualification Requirements To qualify, applicants must meet all of the ... geophysics, geochemistry and hydrology. Such work generally must have involved making close ...

Trainee Geophysicist information

See salary details

$25.5K

$43.5K

$63.5K

How much do trainee geophysicist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for trainee geophysicist in the United States is $43,530.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33,000.00 and $51,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Trainee Geophysicist vs Geophysicist?

AspectTrainee GeophysicistGeophysicist
QualificationsBachelor's degree in geophysics or related fieldBachelor's or master's degree, often with professional experience
Work EnvironmentTraining programs, supervised field and office workIndependent project work, leadership roles in projects
ResponsibilitiesAssisting with data collection and analysisInterpreting geophysical data, making recommendations

The main difference is experience level: Trainee Geophysicists are in training, focusing on learning and assisting, while Geophysicists are experienced professionals responsible for analysis and decision-making in geophysical projects.

What are the typical responsibilities and learning opportunities for a Trainee Geophysicist during their first year?

As a Trainee Geophysicist, your first year often involves a mix of fieldwork, data processing, and learning to use specialized geophysical software under the guidance of experienced team members. You'll participate in site surveys, assist with equipment setup, and contribute to data collection and preliminary analysis. This hands-on experience is complemented by training sessions and mentorship, providing you with foundational skills in seismic interpretation, report writing, and safety procedures. The collaborative environment also allows you to interact with geologists, engineers, and other specialists, helping you build a broad understanding of the industry and paving the way for future advancement.

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

To thrive as a Trainee Geophysicist, you typically need a degree in geophysics, geology, or a related field with solid mathematical and analytical skills. Familiarity with geophysical survey equipment, data processing software (such as MATLAB, Petrel, or GIS tools), and sometimes safety certifications are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication help distinguish candidates in collaborative and field-based environments. These skills and qualifications are essential for accurately collecting, analyzing, and interpreting geophysical data that inform critical decisions in energy, environmental, or engineering projects.

What are trainee geophysicists?

Trainee geophysicists are entry-level professionals who assist in the study of the Earth's physical properties using methods such as seismic, magnetic, electrical, and gravitational measurements. They typically work under the supervision of experienced geophysicists, helping with data collection, analysis, and interpretation for projects related to natural resources, environmental assessments, or engineering. Trainees often work in the field as well as in laboratories and offices, learning to use specialized equipment and software. Over time, they gain the skills and experience necessary to advance to more senior geophysicist roles.
More about Trainee Geophysicist jobs
What cities are hiring for Trainee Geophysicist jobs? Cities with the most Trainee Geophysicist job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Geophysicist jobs? The most popular types of Geophysicist jobs are:
What states have the most Trainee Geophysicist jobs? States with the most job openings for Trainee Geophysicist jobs include:
Infographic showing various Trainee Geophysicist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,530 per year, or $20.9 per hour.
Assistant Geologist / Geologist Trainee - NY HELPS

Assistant Geologist / Geologist Trainee - NY HELPS

New York State

Long Island City, NY

$66K - $107K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


New York State rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 179 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 50 rated states


Job description

Duties Description Project manager position for various state-funded and privately-funded remedial program sites. Duties include management and oversight of investigation and cleanup projects in the State's Superfund, Brownfield Cleanup and Environmental Restoration programs. Duties will involve: interaction with remedial parties, property owners, the public and governmental agencies; oversight of remediation sites, remedial consultants and contractors; review of site conditions and data to assess the nature and extent of site contamination, and evaluation of remedial alternatives and remedy selection; design and implementation of selected remedies; and monitoring of remedy effectiveness.

The project manager is expected to manage multiple projects, while prioritizing workload and addressing all site engineering and administrative needs. Additional duties will be discussed during interviews. Minimum Qualifications Minimum Qualifications for candidates eligible for 55-b/55-c appointment, 70.4 transfer, or NY HELPS appointment: Geologist Trainee, NS: bachelor's degree or higher in earth science, engineering geology, environmental geology, environmental geosciences, geochemistry, geological engineering, geology, geological science, geophysics, or hydrogeology

Assistant Geologist, G-20: bachelor's degree or higher in, earth science, engineering geology, environmental geology, environmental geosciences, geochemistry, geological engineering, geology, geological science, geophysics, or hydrogeology, AND: Either 1. proof of passing the National Association of State Boards of Geology (ASBOG) Fundamentals of Geology (FG) examination, OR 2. a professional geologist licensure with current registration.

This position is also open to the following candidates: Reassignment Eligible - Those currently in the title and employed by DEC or Reinstatement Eligible - Those who have previously held the title on a permanent competitive basis. or Transfer Eligible - Those with one year of permanent competitive service in a title designated as appropriate for transfer in accordance with Section 70.1 of Civil Service Law. 55-b/55-c Candidates must meet the open competitive minimum qualifications (see above) and include with their resume or application, a copy of the letter from Civil Service which indicates approval for the 55- b/55-c program

Individuals appointed as a Geologist Trainee are required to complete a minimum of one year of successful performance as a Geologist Trainee and pass the National Association of State Boards of Geologist's Fundamentals of Geology (FG) examination. If you pass the FG by the end of the first year, you may be advanced to the Grade 20 Assistant Geologist title without further examination. If you do not pass the FG by the end of the second year of the traineeship, you will be terminated from your position.

NOTE: In accordance with Chapter 475 of the Laws of 2014, all professional geologists in New York State must obtain licensure under Title VIII of the Education Law; based on this, you will be required to obtain your professional geology license in order to be promoted in the future. Additional Comments *If appointment is at the Assistant Geologist, SG-20 level, the starting salary for this position is $87,693. This amount is comprised of the base salary of $74,193 with an additional geographic pay differential of $13,500 specific to this title and location.

The job rate for this position is $107,621. This amount is comprised of the base salary of $ 94,121 with an additional geographic pay differential of $13,500 specific to this title and location. Please note, this is not extended to any trainee titles.

If appointed at trainee level, you will receive the differential upon advancement to grade 20. Must have a valid driver's license or demonstrate the ability to meet the transportation needs of the position. Use of personal protection equipment, including a respirator, will be required.

Must be able to negotiate difficult terrain. Must be able to work in remote areas. Must be able to work in adverse weather conditions.

Travel may be required. Overtime may be required. Overnight travel may be required.

Must successfully complete (or have completed) the 40-hour OSHA 1910.120 training course and all other required training. Must complete an annual Health and Safety Program including medical monitoring, fit testing, and 40 (or 8) hour OSHA HAZWOPER certification. Telecommuting may be available up to 50% of work schedule, will be discussed at interview

We offer a work-life balance and a generous benefits package, worth 65% of salary, including: Holiday & Paid Time Off Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Pension from New York State Employees' Retirement System Shift & Geographic pay differentials Affordable Health Care options Family dental and vision benefits at no additional cost NYS Deferred Compensation plan Access to NY 529 and NY ABLE College Savings Programs, and U.S. Savings Bonds And many more... For new State employees appointed to graded positions, the annual salary is the hiring rate (beginning of the Salary Range) of the position

Promotion salaries are calculated by the NYS Office of the State Comptroller in accordance with NYS Civil Service Law, OSC Payroll rules and regulations and negotiated union contracts. The Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is committed to fostering a culture of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility. Our work would not be possible without the diverse backgrounds, experiences, ideas, and abilities of our employees.

DEC is committed to developing a workforce which represents the diverse population of New York State. DEC embraces a diverse and inclusive work environment by encouraging all individuals, including those with disabilities, to apply to open positions at the agency. Please be advised, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation does not use E-Verify, and we are unable to provide sponsorship for employment visa statuses (i.e

H-1B, Self-Sponsorship, STEM OPT). Some positions may require additional credentials or a background check to verify your identity.


What New York State employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom