This article will provide you with information about the salary range of geophysicists, along with the job description and educational qualifications required for this profession.
Geophysicists work in a team and study the physical characteristics of the earth and its environment in space. This systematic study of the Earth and its interiors is done with the help of computers and numerical technology. Geophysicists are professionals who enjoy good salaries and advancement opportunities. Due to growing demand for their skills, their average salary has seen a growing trend over the past few years. According to job market analysts, many jobs will be created in this field giving employment to several young graduates and post graduates.
Job Description
Geophysicists perform the task of finding and studying the deposits and remains of various minerals and petroleum products. They also study the ore deposits, sediment and composition of different rocks found on Earth. Some also direct search operations in which natural gas and oil deposits are to be discovered by working in close association with petroleum engineers. They also make use of seismic and electrical techniques to discover the possible environmental hazards and dangers like earthquakes. They have the option of working for private organizations as well as federal and state governments. Most of them work in oil and natural gas sectors, which are very important for the economy of any country. A highly experienced one with a good knowledge of earth science, can work as a lecturer or professor in renowned colleges and universities, as a full-time or visiting faculty.
It is a complicated job meant for experts in the field. So, possessing the right kind of qualifications to suit the job profile is extremely essential. Students who have completed graduation in the field of geology and engineering can think of becoming geophysicists. In order to grab the senior management jobs, a master’s or doctorate is required. Problem solving abilities, reasoning skills, ability to work in a team, good communication and interpersonal skills, expertise in subjects like physics and mathematics and a positive attitude are the skills needed to become a successful one.
Salary Details
The salary largely depends on the educational qualifications, number of years of practical experience, location of job, kind of employer, and skills of the candidate. The median salary is around USD 80,000 per year. The salary for those who have just entered this lucrative field can be in the range of USD 50,000 to USD 58,000 per year, depending on the institute they have completed their education from. The average salary for experienced geophysicists was found to be around USD 90,000 per year, as per major salary surveys.
Generally, the salaries for people working in the private sector are high as compared to those received by people working in the government sector. However, in case of geophysicists, this is not true. Surveys have pegged the average salary in the government sector to be around USD 100,000 per year. It can be in the range of USD 70,000 to USD 90,000 per year for those having an experience of around five to seven years. With more than fifteen years of experience, you an earn in excess of USD 100,000 per year. The surveys also indicate that geophysicists employed in Texas earn the best salary in this field.
Considering the competition for getting admission for this course, you should start your preparations right from high school. Best of luck and work hard!