How to Become a Geophysicist

Step 1: Understand the job description and responsibilities of a Geophysicist

What does a Geophysicist do?

A Geophysicist applies geophysical principals to identify and evaluate the value of underground deposits. Aids in the design, planning, and execution of geophysical investigations and projects including data collection, processing, analyzing, and reporting. Being a Geophysicist requires a bachelor's/master's degree. Relies on limited experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals to perform a variety of tasks. Additionally, Geophysicist typically reports to a supervisor or manager. To be a Geophysicist typically requires 2 to 4 years of related experience. Gains exposure to some of the complex tasks within the job function. Occasionally directed in several aspects of the work.

People's Opinions on Geophysicist responsibilities

A geophysicist can work in the field, collecting data, making observations, and calibrating equipment.

12/25/2019: Providence, RI

Geophysicists are also found in the lab performing controlled experiments and conducting analysis of samples, in the classroom teaching students, and in the employ of government agencies and private organizations interested in topics within geophysics.

12/10/2019: Indianapolis, IN

Anyone who has a deep interest in the physical properties of the Earth might be interested in a career as a geophysicist.

12/20/2019: Topeka, KS

Geophysicists can also work for government agencies, monitoring the activities of companies which exploit natural resources, enforcing boundaries between resource claims, and studying the way in which resource extraction impacts the environment.

10/18/2019: Harrisburg, PA

Geophysicists take readings and measurements of features and anomalies and finds at various elevations in order to create a 3D map for use by researchers and decision makers.

11/11/2019: Austin, TX
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Step 2: Learn best tips to become a Geophysicist

Best tips for those who want to become a Geophysicist

Here are some tips to become a Geophysicist.

Step 3: View best colleges and universities for Geophysicist

Best colleges and universities for Geophysicist

  • Butler University
  • Carroll College
  • High Point University
  • Princeton University
  • Providence College
  • Rollins College

Step 4: Think about whether is it worth to be a Geophysicist

Is being a Geophysicist Worth it?

People's Opinions on lifestyles

Many consider the position of chief geophysicist to be the ultimate achievement since you are typically promoted to this level only after you have distinguished yourself in the field.

10/15/2019: Lancaster, PA

Generally, chief geophysicists compensated at the bottom of the range work for smaller colleges and laboratories, or have been recently promoted to their positions.

11/10/2019: Bismarck, ND

Geophysicist and keen photographer, Martin Kennedy, took and edited the sensational picture after driving north from his home in Durris.

11/25/2019: Louisville, KY

Geologists and geophysicists, often called geoscientists, study the Earth's interior and exterior formations throughout time.

12/30/2019: Anderson, IN

While geologists focus on rock formation and physical properties of the Earth's crust that change throughout history, geophysicists use scientific and mathematical principles to study the interior of the Earth as well, the atmosphere, and magnetic and electrical forces, and bodies of water.

11/28/2019: Boulder, CO
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Step 5: Prepare relevant skills for being a Geophysicist

What skills do you need to be a Geophysicist?

This is not a management position, but still requires important skills in order to fully execute the role.  A keen understanding of the following is necessary for the role: Groundwater Modeling, Physical Sciences, Physics, Statistical Analysis, Sample Collection, Scientific Testing, Test Monitoring.  These skills are certainly important to the role, but keep in mind, fit into a company culture and environment is often just as important.

People's Opinions on Geophysicist skills

Geophysicists apply physics concepts and techniques to study the gravitational, magnetic and electric fields of the earth and further scientists’ knowledge of both the planet’s interior and surface.

10/04/2019: Santa Barbara, CA

Obviously, skills taught in the classroom are very important for aspiring geophysicists.

11/19/2019: Everett, WA

If you have these abilities and want to learn more about the concepts of physics and the study of the earth, there’s a good chance you will be happy working as a geophysicist.

11/22/2019: Pascagoula, MS

Either way, geophysicists need to be able to interpret the data that they produce.

11/22/2019: Green Bay, WI

Therefore, those who use the skills of geophysicists find it a safe, fast, effective and cheap research method.

12/17/2019: Jackson, MS
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Step 6: View average salary for Geophysicist

How much does a Geophysicist make?

The average salary range for a Geophysicist is from $92,093 to $131,780. The salary will change depending on your location, job level, experience, education, and skills.

Salary range for a Geophysicist
$92,093 to $131,780

Step 7: Find relevant Geophysicist jobs, and apply.

Looking for Geophysicist jobs?

Here are some Geophysicist jobs in the United States.

Search Geophysicist Jobs in the United States

Step 8: Explore Career Path of Geophysicist