Geophysicist
Definition
Geophysics is the use of physical properties of rocks and other materials to create an image and study
the subsurface. A Geophysicist studies the earth using gravity, magnetic, electrical, and seismic
methods. Geophysics can be divided into three major categories, Data Acquisition, Data Processing and
Interpretation.
Job Description/Work Activities
Job descriptions and job titles vary according to the area of employment. Geophysicists can
work in a variety of environments ranging from mountainous terrain to seismic vessels or the
safety of the office place or laboratory.
The majority of Geophysicists, approximately 95%, are employed in the Energy and Mineral industry.
Geophysicists in the Energy industry primarily work with seismic data as this is the major reconnaissance
tool for Hydrocarbon exploration. In these roles, they are typically responsible for interpretation of
seismic and generation of drilling location based on integration of various types of subsurface data.
Geophysicists also work to characterize reservoirs and sometimes generate 3D models of the subsurface
to reduce risk of drilling.
However, geophysicists may also be involved in providing environmental consultancy, e.g.
investigation of landfill sites, using geophysical techniques, or working within a research institute
to investigate. Geophysicists may also work in Renewable energy as well as disaster
preparedness and management. There are some specializations of Geophysics such as
Seismologist and Volcanologist who work with very specific environment.
Income
The U.S. Geological Survey estimates salaries of geophysicists at anywhere from $30,000 to
$100,000 (USD/year)
Chief geophysicists likely earned closer to $144,000 a year
Entry Requirements
Relevant degree subjects include physical, mathematical and applied sciences and engineering.
The following list of Degrees are among the most desired by companies seeking Geophysical
talent.
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geophysics;
physics;
geology;
mathematics
Geophysics relies heavily on a thorough understanding of physics and mathematics. Many
energy companies hire candidates with Physics degrees and offer the relevant training and
development in the areas of Geology and subsurface mapping etc. In the energy industry,
training is an integral part of your career development. Many companies offer extensive training
to build their employees skill sets in a particular area.
Joining professional societies, such as GSTT, SEG and EAGE, while you are a student with
allow you to keep up to date with developments in the field and also provide excellent
opportunities for networking.
Requirements for Tertiary Education may vary depending on your
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Europe/Canada
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USA
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CAPE/GCE A’level: Min. 3 A’Levels with at least A grades in
two from the following list:
Mathematics
Physics
Chemistry
Geology
Biology
Geography
CXC/ GCE O’level (inclusive of Advanced Mathematics &
Physics)
SATs (score requirements vary by school)
CAPE/GCE A’level (not a strict requirement for most US
school, but advantageous)
Other Information
Below are some links to other source of information about this field:
Society of Exploration Geophysicists
http://www.seg.org/seg
European Association of Geoscientists and Engineers
http://www.eage.org/