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Geophysical Data Technician

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All About Geophysical Data Technicians

Geophysical Data Technician Definition Measure, record, or evaluate geological data, using sonic, electronic, electrical, seismic, or gravity-measuring instruments to prospect for oil or gas. May collect or evaluate core samples or cuttings.

Geophysical Data Technician Responsibilities

  • Interview individuals, and research public databases in order to obtain information.
  • Collect geological data from potential geothermal energy plant sites.
  • Collect data on underground areas, such as reservoirs, that could be used in carbon sequestration operations.
  • Conduct geophysical surveys of potential sites for wind farms or solar installations to determine their suitability.
  • Collect samples or cuttings, using equipment or hand tools.
  • Develop and design packing materials and handling procedures for shipping of objects.

What Every Geophysical Data Technician Should Know

When polled, Geophysical Data Technicians say the following skills are most frequently used in their jobs:

Reading Comprehension: Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.

Active Listening: Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.

Speaking: Talking to others to convey information effectively.

Writing: Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.

Time Management: Managing one’s own time and the time of others.

  • Gravity Prospecting Operator
  • Electric Well Logging Operator
  • Hydrographer
  • Seismograph Observer
  • Seismic Observer

Are There Job Opportunities for Geophysical Data Technicians?

In 2016, there was an estimated number of 15,000 jobs in the United States for Geophysical Data Technician. New jobs are being produced at a rate of 16% which is above the national average. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 2,400 new jobs for Geophysical Data Technician by 2026. Due to new job openings and attrition, there will be an average of 1,900 job openings in this field each year.

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The states with the most job growth for Geophysical Data Technician are Wyoming, North Carolina, and Utah. Watch out if you plan on working in Kentucky, West Virginia, or New Hampshire. These states have the worst job growth for this type of profession.

How Much Does a Geophysical Data Technician Make?

The typical yearly salary for Geophysical Data Technicians is somewhere between $28,020 and $108,110.

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Geophysical Data Technicians who work in New Mexico, Alaska, or Kentucky, make the highest salaries.

How much do Geophysical Data Technicians make in different U.S. states?

State Annual Mean Salary
Alabama $52,180
Alaska $76,650
Arizona $45,350
Arkansas $45,670
California $52,900
Florida $39,930
Georgia $64,110
Idaho $40,750
Illinois $39,500
Indiana $60,210
Kansas $48,530
Kentucky $64,540
Louisiana $64,640
Maryland $50,230
Massachusetts $62,840
Michigan $50,010
Minnesota $55,610
Mississippi $52,570
Missouri $49,620
Montana $61,730
Nebraska $66,470
Nevada $56,330
New Mexico $90,010
New York $54,920
North Dakota $60,050
Ohio $49,660
Oklahoma $55,580
Pennsylvania $49,190
South Carolina $51,610
Tennessee $54,600
Texas $66,760
Utah $51,400
Virginia $46,460
Washington $53,840
West Virginia $57,350
Wyoming $59,410

What Tools do Geophysical Data Technicians Use?

Below is a list of the types of tools and technologies that Geophysical Data Technicians may use on a daily basis:

  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft Word
  • Microsoft Office
  • Microsoft PowerPoint
  • Microsoft Access
  • Autodesk AutoCAD
  • Database software
  • Adobe Systems Adobe Illustrator
  • Geographic information system GIS software
  • Corel CorelDraw Graphics Suite
  • SAP BusinessObjects Crystal Reports
  • Leica Geosystems ERDAS IMAGINE
  • ESRI ArcGIS software
  • Golden Software Surfer
  • Geographic resources analysis support system GRASS
  • Landmark GeoGraphix
  • IHS PETRA
  • Seismic Micro-Technology KINGDOM
  • Clark Labs IDRISI Andes
  • Midland Valley 2DMove

Becoming a Geophysical Data Technician

What kind of Geophysical Data Technician requirements are there?

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How many years of work experience do I need?

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Who Employs Geophysical Data Technicians?

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Geophysical Data Technicians work in the following industries:

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Those thinking about becoming a Geophysical Data Technician might also be interested in the following careers:

Those who work as a Geophysical Data Technician sometimes switch careers to one of these choices:

References:

Image Credit: Jeffrey Beall via Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License

More about our data sources and methodologies.

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