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Development and Production Geophysicist, Environmental Geophysicist, Geophysicist, Geoscientist, Geoscience Professional, Mining Geophysicist, Petroleum Exploration Geophysicist, Physical Scientist
In Canada, the federal government groups and organizes occupations based on a National Occupational Classification (NOC) system. This alis occupation may not reflect the entire NOC group it is part of. Data for the NOC group can apply across multiple occupations.
The NOC system is updated every 5 years to reflect changes in the labour market. Government forms and labour market data may group and refer to an occupation differently, depending on the system used.
Here is how this occupation has been classified over time.
2006 NOC
2006 NOC-S
2011 NOC
2016 NOC
2021 NOC
2023 OaSIS
Geophysicists study Earth’s interior by measuring responses to seismic and electromagnetic waves. They also study gravity and magnetic and electric fields. Their findings provide them with an image of what is below the ground, called the subsurface.
Energy exploration geophysicists study information on sediments, mineral and rock makeup, and geological structure. When searching for hydrocarbons, they determine where oil and gas accumulations are most likely to occur. To find sources of geothermal energy, they search for areas with higher underground temperatures. They collect data from seismic work. They also conduct gravity, magnetic, satellite, or LiDAR (light detecting and ranging) surveys.
Mineral exploration geophysicists search for ore deposits using electrical and electromagnetic techniques. If exploring for minerals dissolved in groundwater, they may use seismic data to understand geological structure.
Environmental geophysicists gauge ground water quality and assess hazards. In general, they conduct all aspects of collecting data and processing it. They use seismic, electrical, and electromagnetic techniques. They also use ground-penetrating radar.
Reservoir geophysicists develop oil and gas projects. They develop hydrocarbon properties or carbon sequestration projects. From above ground, they monitor the distribution of fluids under the surface. They use seismic, microseismic, electrical, and other techniques. They work closely with geologists and petroleum engineers.
Exploration geophysicists may focus on 1 or more of the following areas:
In data collection, they conduct field-based geophysical surveys for near and deep subsurface interpretation. They:
In data interpretation, exploration geophysicists:
In data processing, they use computer software or writing programs to process the data recorded during geophysical survey work.
Exploration geophysicists work with:
They may supervise a team of other professionals, technologists, and support staff.
Energy exploration geophysicists often work in an office. They compile and make sense of data collected in the field. Some may work in the field for part of the year directing the search for oil and gas deposits.
Mineral exploration and environmental geophysicists may spend a lot of time in the field. They sometimes work in remote locations. They may have to lift up to 20 kilograms.
In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2006 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups. If there are multiple related NOC groups, select a NOC heading to learn about each one.
Interest in synthesizing information to plan and direct field studies, drilling and testing programs, and seismic, electromagnetic, magnetic, gravimetric, radiometric, radar and other remote sensing programs to extend knowledge of the earth; in assessing deposits and geological age; and in determining characteristics and suitability of materials for use as concrete aggregates, road fill and other applications
Interest in precision working with instruments to identify deposits of construction materials; and in participating in remote sensing programs and in analyses of core samples, drill cuttings and rock samples to identify chemical, mineral, hydrocarbon and biological composition
Interest in consulting to recommend the acquisition of lands, exploration and mapping programs, and mine development; and in advising in areas such as waste management, route and site selection and the restoration of contaminated sites; may supervise and co-ordinate well drilling, completion and workovers, and mining activities
To identify or change your interest codes, complete the Interests Exercise in CAREERinsite.
The interest code helps you figure out if you’d like to work in a particular occupation.
It’s based on the Canadian Work Preference Inventory (CWPI), which measures 5 occupational interests: Directive, Innovative, Methodical, Objective, and Social.
Each set of 3 interest codes for this NOC group is listed in order of importance.
A code in capital letters means it’s a strong fit for the occupation.
A code in all lowercase letters means the fit is weaker.
To fill in or change the values for your abilities, complete the Abilities Exercise in CAREERinsite.
A Quick Guide
You are born with abilities that help you process certain types of information and turn it into action. These abilities influence which skills you can learn more easily.
The abilities or aptitudes shown for this NOC group come from the General Aptitude Test Battery (GATB). The GATB measures 9 aptitudes. It groups them into 3 categories: mental, visual, and physical.
The abilities scores range from 1 to 5, with 5 being stronger.
Exploration geophysicists need:
They should enjoy:
In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2016 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups. If there are multiple related NOC groups, select a NOC heading to learn about each one.
This chart shows which job skills are currently in highest demand for this occupational group. It was created using this occupation's 24 most recent Alberta job postings, collected between Dec 23, 2021 and Dec 20, 2024.
Review these skills to learn:
| Health benefits: Health care plan | 19 |
|---|---|
| Health benefits: Dental plan | 18 |
| Financial benefits: Bonus | 16 |
| Tasks: Plan, direct and participate in analyses of geological, geochemical and geophysical survey data, well logs and other test results, maps, notes and cross sections | 15 |
| Tasks: Identify and advise on anticipated natural risks | 15 |
| Construction Specialization: Flexibility | 14 |
| Construction Specialization: Team player | 14 |
| Work Setting: Consulting geology, geophysics or engineering firm | 13 |
| Health benefits: Vision care benefits | 13 |
| Tasks: Plan, direct and participate in geological, geochemical and geophysical field studies, drilling and geological testing programs | 13 |
Exploration geophysicists require a Bachelor of Science degree in geophysics or equivalent. It must include courses in:
For detailed information on acceptable educational programs, see Certification Requirements.
Some employers prefer a master’s degree (M.Sc.). Research positions require a doctoral degree (PhD).
Many employers provide specialized training as well.
The following schools offer programs and courses that meet this occupation’s educational requirements. Other eligible programs and courses may be available.
The following schools offer programs or courses that are related to this occupation but are not required to enter the field.
To expand or narrow your program options, visit Post-Secondary Programs and start your search with:
Completing a program does not guarantee entrance into an occupation. Before enrolling in an education program, prospective students should look into various sources for education options and employment possibilities. For example, contact associations and employers in this field.
Prior to 2014, APEGA awarded the titles of professional geologist and professional geophysicist. These titles remain valid for those who hold them, but new applicants can only be given the title of professional geoscientist.
Certain professional titles or duties within this occupation are protected by provincial legislation. Requirements vary if you use these titles or perform these duties.
The related legislation is shown below. If there are multiple related legislations, select a certification heading to learn about each one.
Geologists examine rocks from Earth’s surface and subsurface to study the nature and history of the earth’s crust. Geophysicists study the water, surface, and internal composition of Earth.
Before 2014, APEGA awarded the titles of professional geologist and professional geophysicist. These titles remain valid for those who hold them. New applicants can only receive the title of professional geoscientist.
Under Alberta’s Engineering and Geoscience Professions Act [pdf] and Engineering and Geoscience Professions General Regulation [pdf], you must register as a member of the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta (APEGA) to practice as a Professional Geoscientist or engage in the practice of geoscience.
You do not have to register if you work under the direct supervision of a professional geoscientist and do not call yourself a Professional Geoscientist.
For information on what you need and other details, visit the certification profile Geoscientist.
Source: 2021-2025 Alberta Regional Occupational Demand Outlook
Exploration geophysicists work for:
Exploration geophysicists most often work for business and environmental projects.
Geophysicists often start their careers in junior positions. They advance to senior positions with training and experience.
Most job openings come from small to medium companies where good general knowledge is more important than specialization.
Experienced geophysicists may move into private consulting or advance to management positions.
This section shows the industries where the majority of people in this occupation work. The data is based on the 2016 Census.
In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2016 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups.
Geoscientists and oceanographers
2016 NOC: 2113
86.0% of people in this occupational group work in:
NOC groups often include several related occupations. Although there is labour market data for the larger NOC group, this occupation makes up only a part of that group. It means data for this occupation may be different than the data shown. For examples, see Note.
This section shows the short-term demand forecasted for this occupation in Alberta over a 3-year period. It also shows the number of people employed in the occupation.
In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2021 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups.
Source: 2023-2025 Alberta Short-Term Employment Forecast
NOC groups often include several related occupations. Although there is labour market data for the larger NOC group, this occupation makes up only a part of that group. It means data for this occupation may be different than the data shown. For examples, see Note.
To see data for all occupations, visit Occupations in Demand.
This section shows the employment outlook for this occupation in Alberta over a 5-year period.
Employment outlook is influenced by a wide variety of factors including:
In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2016 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups.
Source: 2021-2025 Alberta Regional Occupational Demand Outlook
Annual growth is from 2021 to 2025. New positions created each year are in addition to job openings created by employment turnover.
NOC groups often include several related occupations. Although there is labour market data for the larger NOC group, this occupation makes up only a part of that group. It means data for this occupation may be different than the data shown. For examples, see Note.
Employment turnover is expected to increase as members of the baby boom generation retire over the next few years.
In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2016 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups. If there are multiple related NOC groups, select a NOC heading to learn about each one.
Unless otherwise noted, the data shown here is for all industries and all regions in Alberta.
All wage estimates are hourly except where otherwise indicated. Wages and salaries do not include overtime hours, tips, benefits, profit shares, bonuses (unrelated to production), and other forms of compensation.
To see the full survey data for this NOC group, visit the wage profile.
Other wage sources
To make an informed wage and salary decision, research other wage sources [pdf] to supplement this data.
Good Reliability, represents a CV of between 6.01% and 15.00% and/or fewer than 30 survey observations and/or if survey observations represent less than 50% of all estimated employment for the occupation.
| Wages* | Low (5th percentile) | High (95th percentile) | Average | Median |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting | $24.04 | $79.82 | $53.75 | $52.05 |
| Overall | $37.44 | $84.13 | $65.53 | $62.82 |
| Top | $40.00 | $109.85 | $78.97 | $76.88 |
Swipe left and right to view all data. Scroll left and right to view all data.
* All wage estimates are hourly except where otherwise indicated. Wages and salaries do not include overtime hours, tips, benefits, profit shares, bonuses (unrelated to production) and other forms of compensation.
Pay brackets for hourly wages
| ALL INDUSTRIES | $130,597 |
|---|---|
| Oil & Gas Extraction | $153,869 |
| Professional, Scientific & Technical Services | $99,826 |
| Public Administration | $100,372 |
Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta (APEGA) website: www.apega.ca
Canadian Society of Exploration Geophysicists (CSEG) website: www.cseg.ca
Get information and referrals about career, education, and employment options from Alberta Supports.
Updated Mar 31, 2022. The information contained in this profile is current as of the dates shown. Salary, employment outlook, and educational program information may change without notice. It is advised that you confirm this information before making any career decisions.
