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Geophysical Data Technician

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Life As a Geophysical Data Technician

Example of Geophysical Data Technician Job 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.

Daily Life Of a Geophysical Data Technician

  • Prepare notes, sketches, geological maps, or cross-sections.
  • Operate or adjust equipment or apparatus used to obtain geological data.
  • Interview individuals, and research public databases in order to obtain information.
  • Measure geological characteristics used in prospecting for oil or gas, using measuring instruments.
  • Collect geological data from potential geothermal energy plant sites.
  • Set up or direct set-up of instruments used to collect geological data.

Geophysical Data Technician Needed Skills

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.

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

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.

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.

  • Geoscience Specialist
  • Seismograph Chief
  • Magnetometer Operator
  • Geophysicist
  • Field Scout

Job Demand for Geophysical Data Technicians

There were about 15,000 jobs for Geophysical Data Technician in 2016 (in the United States). 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. The BLS estimates 1,900 yearly job openings in this field.

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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.

Salary for a Geophysical Data Technician

The average yearly salary of a Geophysical Data Technician ranges 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 & Technology 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
  • Clark Labs IDRISI Andes
  • Seismic Micro-Technology KINGDOM
  • Parallel Geoscience SPW

How to Become 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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Geophysical Data Technicians Sector

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The table below shows some of the most common industries where those employed in this career field work.

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You May Also Be Interested In…

Those interested in being a Geophysical Data Technician may also be interested in:

Career changers with experience as a Geophysical Data Technician sometimes find work in one of the following fields:

References:

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

More about our data sources and methodologies.

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