Geophysicist/field seismologist : Employers and vacancy sources

A large proportion of geophysicists/field seismologists are employed by oil companies in their exploration divisions.

This work is increasingly contracted out, so consultancies provide another source of employment. Consultancy firms vary in size, from very small, economically precarious companies to large multinationals. Some consultancies are quite specialised in using particular geophysical techniques or working in particular locations, while others offer a more diverse range of services to their customers.

Environmental consultancy is a growing area of employment, as many landfill site owners require geophysicists to help them ensure compliance with strict requirements related to the construction, operation and closure of landfill sites. Extraction of gas from landfill sites is likely to become another area where geophysicists may be required in the future.

Exploration companies may also undertake work for construction firms, water companies, mining companies and environmental agencies, so geophysicists/field seismologists may be employed in any of these settings.

Other employers include:

• universities and research institutes;
• geological surveys;
• government bodies and agencies.

Sources of vacancies

• Search graduate jobs on this site.
• Earthworks Jobs  
• New Scientist Jobs   
• Oil & Gas Journal  
• Oil and Gas Job Search   
• Oil Careers   
• British Geophysical Association   
• Rigzone  

The Geological Society  runs careers events at universities around the country.

Resources such as Oil and Gas  and the Oil Directory  list oil and gas companies you could approach with speculative applications. The Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC)  identifies specialist agencies that handle vacancies.

Finally, you can always check at your university’s jobs board for entry-level positions advertised as well as relevant recruitment events.

Get tips on job hunting, CVs and covering letters and interviews.