Geophysicist

Study the structure and form of zones beneath the earth’s surface by taking measurements using seismic, gravity, magnetic and electrical data collection methods.

Job opportunities

Jobs in SEEK right now

Job growth

5-year projection

Salary

Typical salary

Job satisfaction

Job opportunities

Jobs in SEEK right now

Salary

Typical salary

Job growth

5-year projection

Job satisfaction

What's it like to be a Geophysicist?

Some Geophysicists, such as Mining and Petroleum Geophysicists spend a lot of time outdoors investigating mineral deposits to evaluate whether they can be mined profitably, while others, such as Research Geophysicists spend most of their time in a lab studying samples and using computer models to make calculations.

Tasks and duties

Planning and conducting field tests.
Gathering, analysing and interpreting geophysical data.
Presenting geophysical data to stakeholders to help them make better decisions.
Forecasting weather, earthquakes, tsunamis, and other natural phenomena.
Sampling rocks for information on the composition of the surface of the earth.
Surveying specific locations for the presence of minerals, water, and petroleum.
Undertaking analysis and interpreting seismic data to locate and evaluate potential oil and gas targets.
Contributing to projects to assist in lowering the risks and costs associated with oil and gas exploration.
Submitting reports such as seismic interpretation reports to Joint Venture parties and government petroleum regulators.
Keeping up to date with advances in geophysical technologies and implementing the use of new and innovative technology.
Maintaining geophysical equipment.

The two main areas of geophysics are exploration geophysics, which deals with the search for the earth's resources, and global geophysics, which studies such phenomena as earthquakes and magnetic fields. Geophysicists often work in the mining and oil industries, playing an important role in the search for natural resources. Other Geophysicists work with environmental agencies to identify and mitigate threats to the environment.

How to become a Geophysicist

To become a Geophysicist you have to complete a bachelor degree and gain experience working in the field pf geophysics.

Complete a bachelor degree in science with a major in geophysics, geoscience or a combination of geology and physics.
Gain experience working in the field of geophysics at a mining or environmental organisation. While you could find a job without any experience, employers may prefer candidates with fieldwork experience, so look for opportunities to work while studying. An internship in the field in which you would like to work can be helpful for landing your first job. Alternatively, you might do volunteer work for an environmental organisation or you may gain experience working as an assistant to a geophysicist.