What Do Geophysical Data Technicians Do?
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.
Life as a Geophysical Data Technician: What Do They Do?
- Operate or adjust equipment or apparatus used to obtain geological data.
- Collect geological data from potential geothermal energy plant sites.
- Plan and direct activities of workers who operate equipment to collect data.
- Conduct geophysical surveys of potential sites for wind farms or solar installations to determine their suitability.
- Assemble, maintain, or distribute information for library or record systems.
- Create photographic recordings of information, using equipment.
Things a Geophysical Data Technician Should Know How to Do
Below is a list of the skills most Geophysical Data Technicians say are important on the job.
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.
Related Job Titles for this Occupation:
- Geological E-Logger
- Sensitometrist
- Locator
- Electrical Logger
- Section Plotter Operator
Job Outlook for Geophysical Data Technicians
In 2016, there was an estimated number of 15,000 jobs in the United States for Geological and Petroleum Technicians.
New jobs are being produced at a rate of 16.4% which is lower than average. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 2,500 new jobs for Geophysical Data Technicians by 2026. Due to new job openings and attrition, there will be an average of 1,900 job openings in this field each year.
The states with the most job growth for Geological and Petroleum Technicians are Texas, Oklahoma, and California.
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.
Average Geophysical Data Technician Salary
Geological and Petroleum Technicians Make between $28,020 and $108,110 a year. A Geophysical Data Technician median salary is $53,300.
How much do Geological and Petroleum Technicians make in each U.S. state?
| State | Annual Mean Salary |
|---|---|
|
New Mexico |
$90,010 |
|
Alaska |
$76,650 |
|
Texas |
$66,760 |
|
Nebraska |
$66,470 |
|
Louisiana |
$64,640 |
|
Kentucky |
$64,540 |
|
Georgia |
$64,110 |
|
Massachusetts |
$62,840 |
|
Montana |
$61,730 |
|
Indiana |
$60,210 |
|
North Dakota |
$60,050 |
|
Wyoming |
$59,410 |
|
West Virginia |
$57,350 |
|
Nevada |
$56,330 |
|
Minnesota |
$55,610 |
|
Oklahoma |
$55,580 |
|
New York |
$54,920 |
|
Tennessee |
$54,600 |
|
Washington |
$53,840 |
|
California |
$52,900 |
|
Mississippi |
$52,570 |
|
Alabama |
$52,180 |
|
South Carolina |
$51,610 |
|
Utah |
$51,400 |
|
Maryland |
$50,230 |
|
Michigan |
$50,010 |
|
Ohio |
$49,660 |
|
Missouri |
$49,620 |
|
Pennsylvania |
$49,190 |
|
Kansas |
$48,530 |
|
Virginia |
$46,460 |
|
Arkansas |
$45,670 |
|
Arizona |
$45,350 |
|
Idaho |
$40,750 |
|
Florida |
$39,930 |
|
Illinois |
$39,500 |
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 Access
- Autodesk AutoCAD
- ESRI ArcGIS software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Geographic information system GIS software
- Adobe Systems Adobe Illustrator
- Dynamic Graphics EarthVision
- Microsoft Excel
- Midland Valley 2DMove
- Microsoft Word
How do I Become a Geophysical Data Technician?
Learn what Geophysical Data Technician education requirements there are.
How many years of work experience do I need?
Where Geophysical Data Technicians Are Employed
Other Jobs You May be Interested In
Those interested in being a Geophysical Data Technician may also be interested in:
- Precision Agriculture Technicians
- Environmental Compliance Inspectors
Those who work as Geophysical Data Technicians sometimes switch careers to one of these choices:
- Forensic Science Technicians
- Agricultural Technicians
References
Image Credit: Via Wikimedia Commons
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