Seismic interpreter: Job description

Seismic interpreters work from surveys which involve sending pulses of sound energy down through layers of rock beneath the earth's surface. The energy that bounces back is recorded. Seismic reflections come back in different strengths, according to whether the subsurface material is sand, shells, water, oil, etc. Acquired data is then processed by seismic data processors and sent to seismic interpreters for analysis.

Seismic interpreters combine the use of 2D, 3D and 4D models with their geological knowledge to calculate the depth and outline of underground formations in order to make estimates of mineral or carbon deposits. These are used by energy or minerals extraction companies or to inform environmental assessments or geological research if working in other settings.

Typical work activities

Tasks typically involve:

• interpreting data of seismic sections (3D and 2D sections of the earth's crust) from surveys, satellites and acoustic measurements;
• using data to generate maps and cross sections of the earth's structure to locate oil-bearing strata, etc.;
• analysing and generating scientific and numerical data;
• working with reservoir engineers to evaluate hydrocarbon prospects - looking at how much oil and gas there is, how easy it is to get to, and what difficulties and hazards might be encountered;
• predicting any changes, movements and flow in the rock structures where the hydrocarbons are present;
• conducting detailed analyses of current exploration fields for data that may have a bearing on new wells, looking at how productive they are likely to be and whether there may be any structural problems to consider;
• using a combination of well and seismic data to convert map structures from time to depth in order to know how deep drilling needs to be;
• using seismic data to collect information about rock quality and volume in order to measure how much oil or gas is likely to be in a given structure;
• analysing seismic data for sub-surface engineering applications;
• interpreting seismic data for environmental assessments and geological research;
• writing scientific reports;
• delivering technical presentations to clients at the end of a project;
• using specialised equipment to assess the physical properties of rock;
• using a variety of highly sophisticated computer systems;
• using computer modelling to simulate hydrocarbon generation and seismic responses of specific structures;
• occasionally working on the development of specialised interpretation software;
• using information from one oil basin (area of oil deposit) to locate potential in others;
• advising and consulting with clients and colleagues;
• supervising and training staff in the techniques listed above;
• sharing information within a multidisciplinary team.