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Job Duties 

Geophysicists may:

Investigate and measure seismic (earthquake), gravitational, electrical, thermal, and magnetic forces affecting the earth

Analyze data obtained to determine the shape of the earth, estimate the composition and structure of the earth's interior, determine the flow patterns of ocean currents and tides, study the atmosphere, and help locate petroleum and mineral deposits

Study the origin and activity of glaciers, volcanoes, & earthquakes

Compile data to prepare navigational charts and maps, predict atmospheric conditions, prepare environmental reports, and establish water supply and flood-control programs

The tools, equipment, and materials used may include:

• Drafting tools

• Seismographs

• Explosives

• Maps, charts, and computers (with Internet access)

• Electrical and electromagnetic instruments

• Magnetometer (measures variations in earth's magnetic fields)

• Rockets, satellites, space probes

• Transits and theodolites (surveying and geodetic instruments)

• Temperature and radiation measuring instruments

• Airplanes, specialized swamp buggies, boats, hovercraft, & helicopters

• Global Positioning Systems (GPS)

• Geographic Information Systems (GIS)

OCCUPATIONAL SPECIALTIES

Geophysicists may specialize in these areas:

024.061-030 GEOPHYSICISTS usually specialize in one of three general areas of geophysics - solid earth, fluid earth, and upper atmosphere. Solid earth Geophysicists who use seismic prospecting or other geophysical techniques to locate oil and mineral deposits, are also known as exploration Geophysicists. In addition, they may map the earth's surface and study earthquakes. An example of a solid earth Geophysicists is:

024.061-050 SEISMOLOGISTS study the earth's interior and vibrations caused by earthquakes and human-made explosions. They explore for oil and minerals, develop methods to detect underground nuclear explosions, and study ground conditions for building, bridge, and dam construction.

024.061-034 HYDROLOGISTS study the distribution and development of underground and surface waters. They may also study rainfall, including the speed with which it soaks into the soil and the method of return to the sea. Some study water supplies, irrigation, flood control, and soil erosion. This is an example of a fluid earth Geophysicist.

024.061-030 PHYSICAL OCEANOGRAPHERS study the physical aspect of the oceans such as density, temperature, and ability to transmit light waves and sound. They also study the seas' movements, such as waves, tides, currents, and the relationship between the seas and the atmosphere. Physical Oceanographers are seeking to understand the interface, the boundary between sea and air, which may lead to future weather control.

Other specialized Geophysicists include: geomagneticians, who study the earth's magnetic field; paleomagneticians, who learn about past magnetic fields from rocks or lava flows; planetologists, who study the composition and atmosphere of the moon, planets, and other bodies in the solar system; and volcanologists, who study volcanoes.

In addition to learning about these specialties, you may also find it helpful to explore the following MOIScripts:

WORKING CONDITIONS AND REQUIREMENTS

Geophysicists often work as part of a field party or laboratory research team, although they may sometimes work alone. They may supervise technicians or other workers.

Working conditions vary with the specialty of the Geophysicists and the type of activity performed. Many Geophysicists work outdoors in all kinds if weather. Some work at research stations in remote areas or aboard ships and aircraft equipped with sophisticated equipment. When not in the field, Geophysicists work in modern, well equipped, well lighted offices and laboratories.

Hours vary with the type of work performed. Geophysicists involved in field studies often work irregular hours because of weather conditions or the nature of the phenomena they are studying, such as earthquakes or other seismic activity. Hours tend to be much more regular for those working in offices or laboratories. In addition to their regular work hours, they may spend many hours reading and studying to keep up with current developments in the field.

Depending on the particular job, Geophysicists may have to travel to different parts of the country or to foreign countries for varying lengths of time. They may have to travel long distances by airplane, car, truck, helicopter, boat, or on foot, depending on the particular destination.

Geophysicists may join professional associations, such as the American Geophysical Union; or the Society of Exploration Geophysicists. Members must pay periodic dues.

You Should Prefer:

• Scientific and technical work

• Work involving the use of special machines, processes, or methods

• Both indoor and outdoor work

You Should Have:

• Above-average intelligence

• Above-average mathematical ability

• Scientific curiosity and imagination

You Should Be Able To:

• Perform a variety of duties which may change often

• Direct, control, and plan a project or the activities of others

• Evaluate information using personal judgment

• Evaluate information using standards that can be measured or checked

• Work within precise limits or standards of accuracy

• Communicate well, both orally and in writing

• Visualize how flat drawings/pictures would look as solid objects

Math Problem You Should Be Able to Solve:

What are the magnitude and direction of the gravitational force that acts on a man who weighs himself at 700 degrees North at the surface of the earth?

Reading Example You Should Be Able to Read and Comprehend:

The squares of the times of revolutions of the planets are proportional to the cubes of their average distances from the sun.

Writing Example You Should Be Able to Produce:

Write an article about the magnitude of the gravitational field at the center of the earth for a professional journal.

Thinking Skill You Should Be Able to Demonstrate:

You should be able to investigate and analyze data regarding the many different forces affecting the earth.

Geophysicists need at least a bachelor's degree for beginning jobs. Geophysicists doing research or supervising exploration activities should have graduate training in geophysics or a related science. Those planning to teach in colleges or do basic research should obtain a Ph.D. degree.

EDUCATION AND PREPARATION OPPORTUNITIES

NOTE: A Bachelor's Degree (four years of study beyond High School) or a Master's Degree (five to six years of study beyond High School) or a Professional Degree or Doctorate (seven to ten years of study beyond high school) may qualify a person for this occupation.

The following education and preparation opportunities are helpful in preparing for occupations in the MOIScript:

***SCHOOL SUBJECTS***

0700 CAREERS , 0900 COMMUNICATIONS , 1000 COMPUTERS , 2200 MATH , 2900 SCIENCE , 3300 TECHNOLOGY

***VOCATIONAL EDUCATION PROGRAMS***

There are no Vocational Education Programs related to this MOIScript

***POSTSECONDARY PROGRAMS***

072 GEOPHYSICS

Programs in Geophysics provide opportunities to gain the knowledge and skills needed for employment which involves dealing with the physical, electrical, magnetic, and gravitational fields of the earth. Geophysicists work in research, exploration, industry, or college teaching.

Courses vary from school to school but may include:

Search for a College and/or Instructional Program

***APPRENTICESHIP OPPORTUNITIES***

There are no Apprenticeships related to this MOIScript

***MILITARY TRAINING PROGRAMS***

Please check the military website at http://www.myfuture.com

OCEANOGRAPHERS

The military needs navigational charts and maps to safely travel the oceans. Accurate oceanographic and weather forecasts are also needed to plan military operations. Oceanographers study ocean tides, currents, weather, and the physical features of the ocean floor.

What They Do

Oceanographers in the military perform some or all of the following duties:

• Direct personnel who collect oceanographic data

• Conduct research on the effects of water and atmosphere on military warning and weapon systems

• Direct the preparation of ocean, sea, and waterway charts, maps, and publications

• Oversee the preparation of oceanographic and weather forecasts

• Collect information on ice conditions in ocean shipping lanes

• Collect information about ocean currents for support of military operational planning

• Advise commanders about ocean and sea conditions to assist in search and rescue missions

Special Requirements

A 4-year college degree is normally required to enter this occupation.

Helpful Attributes

Helpful fields of study include oceanography, geology, marine engineering, and hydrology. Helpful attributes include:

• Preference for doing scientific work

• Interest in sailing and being at sea

• Interest in conducting research or analytical studies

Training Provided

No initial job training is provided to officers in this occupation.

Civilian Counterparts

Civilian oceanographers usually work for colleges and universities, where they are primarily involved in research. Some work for federal government agencies, such as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and for state and local governments that border on the ocean. Civilian oceanographers perform duties similar to those performed in the military.

Work Environment

Oceanographers work outdoors in all climates while collecting oceanographic information. They work in offices while preparing oceanographic publications and charts.

Opportunities

The services have about 100 oceanographers. On average, they need 10 new oceanographers each year. Newly commissioned oceanographers work in their specialty areas, usually with a senior officer. With experience, they work more independently. In time, they may advance to senior management or command positions.  

E-Learning Courses and Programs  

OPPORTUNITIES FOR EXPERIENCE AND METHODS OF ENTRY

High school students may begin to study aspects of this field in science classes. Postsecondary education programs in geophysics may offer co-op opportunities. A number of federal agencies, such as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, participate in the cooperative education program, offering the chance to gain work or experience and an income while going to college. Some colleges have student chapters of professional associations, such as the Society of Exploration Geophysicists. A student could learn more about the field and possibly gain some actual experience by participating in chapter activities. Military service may offer opportunities for experience also.

School-to-Work opportunities include:

informal apprenticeships

mentorships

job shadowing experiences

touring a local Geophysicist employer

internships

volunteer work with a Geophysicist employer

community service work with an agency

Direct application to employers is the most common method of entry. For government positions, apply at federal or state civil service offices. Assistantships or fellowships in higher education may provide referrals for beginning Geophysicists. Assistance in getting a job is available at college placement offices. Professional associations often maintain lists of firms employing Geophysicists. Some professional journals contain advertisements of positions. In addition, you should access and search the Internet's on-line employment services sites such as:

Federal Job Openings ( http://www.usajobs.opm.gov/ ) 

Michigan Jobs & Career Portal

Michigan Talent Bank

Yahoo! Careers

MONSTER.COM  

JobOptions  

You should also enter an electronic resume on these on-line services.

EARNINGS AND ADVANCEMENT

Geophysicists' earnings depend on their position, occupational specialty, amount of experience, level of education, degree of responsibility, and type of employer. Starting salaries for graduating Geophysicists are among the highest of all earnings paid to scientists.

According to a national study, the 1997-98 graduates with bachelor of science degrees in physical and earth sciences, which includes Geophysics, were offered starting salaries averaging $25,705 per year. Master's degree candidates in geology and related geophysical sciences received offers averaging $44,970 per year.

In the federal government, beginning annual salaries for inexperienced Geophysicists, depending on their college records were (1999):

The salaries of these federal government workers may be higher in some urban areas.

Many Geophysicists with experience and advanced degrees can earn over $70,000 per year. A few top Geophysicists earn more than $100,000 per year. They may receive additional income from writing, consulting, and conducting private research.

Most Geophysicists receive life, health, and hospitalization insurance; retirement plans; and paid vacations and holidays. Some participate in profit sharing, savings, or stock investment plans. Those who teach in colleges and universities may also receive paid sabbatical leave.

Most Geophysicists start out doing field mapping or exploration. Those who perform research or fieldwork may advance to senior Geophysicists, project leader, or administrator. Those who teach in a college or university may advance to full professor.

EMPLOYMENT AND OUTLOOK

There were an estimated 12,400 Geophysicists employed nationally in 1996. Almost one seventh of the Geophysicists in various specialties worked for federal government agencies, mainly the U.S. Geological Survey, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and the Defense Department.

Employment of Geophysicists is expected to increase about as fast as the average for all occupations through the year 2006. Both government and private industry are hiring well-qualified workers, although some hiring in government has been slowed by budget cuts and hiring freezes.

Recently, a growing worldwide demand for oil and gas, and new exploration and recovery techniques, have returned stability to the petroleum industry and increased the demand for Geophysicists. Because of the lower number of degrees awarded in geoscience recently and significant number of Geophysicists who left the industry during earlier periods of downsizing, job opportunities in the petroleum and related industries are expected to be good. Employment prospects will be best for jobseekers who hold a master's degree and are familiar with advanced technologies, such as computer modeling and the Global Positioning System (GPS), which are increasingly used to locate new oil and gas fields or pinpoint hidden deposits in existing fields. Because of the cyclical nature of the oil and gas industry, hiring on a contractual basis is common.

Despite the generally poor job prospects encountered by Geophysicists in the 1980's and early 1990's in the petroleum industry, the demand for these scientists in environmental protection and reclamation has been growing steadily. Geophysicists will be needed to help clean up contaminated sites in the United States, and to help private companies and government comply with more numerous and complex regulations.

It is estimated that about 200 Geophysicists were employed in Michigan. Many worked in the Detroit and Lansing areas and in the northern part of the state. Geophysicists may work for petroleum and natural gas companies, mining companies, exploration and consulting firms, research institutes, colleges and universities, and governmental agencies.

Employment of Geophysicists in Michigan is expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations through the year 2005. Exploration for petroleum and other minerals will create few additional openings for Geophysicists. Those who can use sophisticated electronic equipment to find less accessible fuel and mineral deposits will be in highest demand. Oil exploration may resume in the late 1990's. The number of jobs available may fluctuate from year to year depending on the funding available for research and development in the fields of energy, natural resources, and environmental protection.

MICHIGAN'S EMPLOYMENT OUTLOOK TO 2005

SOURCES OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Printed Occupational information is available upon written request from sources below.

SUMMARY PROFILE

MOISCRIPTS are Copyright 2003, Michigan Department of Career Development