As of November 01, 2025, the average salary for a Chief Geophysicist in the United States is $192,100 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $92.
However, a Chief Geophysicist's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Chief Geophysicist's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location, education and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Chief Geophysicist's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here’s how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Levels | Salary |
|---|---|
| Entry Level Chief Geophysicist | $190,872 |
| Intermediate Level Chief Geophysicist | $191,081 |
| Senior Level Chief Geophysicist | $191,290 |
| Specialist Level Chief Geophysicist | $191,582 |
| Expert Level Chief Geophysicist | $192,672 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Chief Geophysicists. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Your level of education can impact your salary potential. While many Chief Geophysicists enter the field with a Master's Degree or MBA degree, higher education can lead to more specialized and higher-paying roles.
According to our 100% employer-reported salary data, the median salary for a Chief Geophysicist with a Master's Degree or MBA is between $186,552 and $192,239.
Chief Geophysicist Salaries by Degree Level
| Degree Level | % of user with this level of education |
|---|---|
| Bachelors | 12.5% |
| Masters | 40.6% |
| Doctorate | 46.9% |
Understanding how a Chief Geophysicist's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on November 01, 2025Salaries for a Chief Geophysicist can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $166,173 in 2023 to around $140,291 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Chief Geophysicist salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
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|
| 2023 | $166,173 |
| 2024 | $150,274 |
| 2025 | $140,291 |
| 2026 |
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|
| Median | % of Total | |
|---|---|---|
| Base Salary | $192,100 | 44.9% |
| Bonus | $142,400 | 33.2% |
| Median | % of Total | |
|---|---|---|
| Social Security | $15,303 | 3.6% |
| 401K/403B | $10,000 | 2.3% |
| Disability | $3,345 | 0.8% |
| Healthcare | $7,986 | 1.9% |
| Pension | $16,000 | 3.7% |
| Time Off | $41,169 | 9.6% |
| Total Compensation | $428,304 | 100% |
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Characters like Meredith Grey and Cristina Yang have impressive careers, but as Chief Geophysicist, salaries range from $181,300 to $201,900 annually, with a mid-salary of $191,900. This reflects the high level of expertise and responsibility in their roles, showcasing the financial rewards in specialized fields.
The highest-paid doctor in the U.S. is a neurosurgeon, specializing in surgeries of the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves. They undergo a rigorous seven-year residency. While the average annual compensation for neurosurgeons is $763,908, the salary data for a Chief Geophysicist shows a range from $181,300 to $201,900, highlighting the significant earnings in specialized fields.
The highest paid job in mining is the Chief Geophysicist, with a salary range from $181,300 to $201,900. This role is crucial for understanding subsurface conditions and guiding exploration efforts. Other high-paying positions include Project Director, Mining Engineer, and Mine Manager, but the Chief Geophysicist stands out with competitive compensation.
The highest salary for a Chief Geophysicist is $201,900 annually. In comparison, the average salary for a Geophysicist in California is significantly lower, with top earners making around $134,712. The salary range for Chief Geophysicists reflects their specialized expertise and responsibilities in the field.
Yes, NASA does hire geophysicists. They may work for various employers, including companies focused on natural resource exploration, engineering firms, universities, data management firms, and government agencies. The salary for a Chief Geophysicist typically ranges from $181,300 to $201,900, with a mid-salary of $191,900.
While ZipRecruiter reports that Mining Geologist salaries can range from $36,000 to $124,500, Chief Geophysicists earn significantly more, with salaries starting at $181,300, a mid-range of $191,900, and a maximum of $201,900 annually in the United States. This reflects the higher level of expertise and responsibility associated with the role.
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