Job Description Form

ACTS-HR-FM-03_Geophysist Rev.0

Name of Employee
Job Code Geophysicist
Job Title Geophysicist
Reporting To Head of Geotechnical Division, Site Manager, Senior Geophysicist

• Geophysicists are key members of a geoscience team. They apply their knowledge of
earth sciences and expertise in physical measurements of the earth’s properties to enhance
geological interpretations. Responsibilities vary with level of expertise, but in general
they include planning, acquisition, processing, and interpretation of Geophysical and
other geophysical data. These include both surface and borehole data, such as check shot
surveys, VSPs, surface Geophysical and cross well geophysical data, and single-well
imaging.
• Successful Geophysicists communicate well at all levels, convey information fluently and
confidently, and are comfortable with client interactions.

Assignment

• A geophysicist/field seismologist studies physical aspects of the earth and uses complex
equipment to collect data on earthquakes and Geophysical waves, which move through
Job Summary and around the earth.

• Their main responsibilities are controlling the quality of the Geophysical data collected
and interpreting it in order to create maps of the buildup of hydrocarbons. They also
examine the physical properties of rocks, as well as gathering and evaluating well data in
order to build reservoir models.

• Job descriptions and job titles vary according to the area of employment. The role
generally involves undertaking Geophysical exploration and producing controlled source
Geophysical data for an oil company or consultancy. However, geophysicists/field
seismologists may also be involved in providing environmental consultancy, e.g.
investigation of landfill sites, using geophysical techniques, or working within a research
institute to investigate seismological structures and provide seismological information to
the public and government.

Supervising • Technicians, Labor

• pre-planning projects before going on site;

• designing data acquisition plans;
• deciding on suitable Geophysical measurement and data-processing techniques;
• taking equipment out to various locations around the world and deploying seismometers;
• observing the reaction of recording equipment to detect irregularities;
• using computers for data management, quality control and communication between the
Main Responsibilities
office and field locations;
• interpreting and mapping of 2D and 3D Geophysical data;
• reporting on collected Geophysical data to the team, clients, senior managers or partners
at meetings and presentations;
• measuring reservoir volumes;
• assessing potential oil and gas yield;
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ACTS-HR-FM-03_Geophysist Rev.0

• thinking quickly and independently to solve problems, often with limited resources in
remote locations;
• designing, testing, modifying and repairing Geophysical equipment;
• adapting data collection procedures;
• working closely with a small team of scientists and other staff who may be away in the
field or offshore for several weeks at a time;
• compiling charts and reports;
• writing documentation and work logs;
• providing a wide range of geophysical support and technical advice/guidance;
• keeping abreast of new and emerging technologies;
• improving existing techniques in data acquisition and mathematical processing, as well as
seeking to develop new techniques and methods;
• Working within budget, resource and time constraints
• Participate hands-on in project activity to gain familiarity with geologic and geophysical
objectives as well as risks for client.
• Foster technical solutions enhance project execution efficiency, ensure effective team
participation.
• Perform quality control, monitoring, and interpretation of geophysical data.
• Update client on technical matters and help manage expectations.
• Support Field Engineers in recommending ways to acquire the best dataset.
• Ability to function independently and in a team

Education

• Bachelors or master’s degree, or PhD in geophysics or related geoscience discipline.

• A master’s degree (either through a four-year first degree program or via a postgraduate
course in geophysics or geosciences) or a PhD is often considered desirable. Holders of
Masters or PhD qualifications may be offered higher starting salaries than graduates, and
PhD or MSc study may also provide opportunities to make useful contacts through
projects within industry or attendance at conferences. It is sometimes possible to get
freelance work through meeting appropriate contacts.

• Practical work experience is extremely valuable. Many of the large multinationals offer
paid internships. Various companies offer summer vacation work on projects of
operational significance. Employers are also interested in experience gained through
Requirements / Skills
fieldwork or research trips. As well as providing valuable hands-on experience, these give
an insight into work in the industry.

Math Ability

• Ability to work with mathematical concepts such as Probability and statistical inference,
and Fundamentals of plane and solid geometry and Trigonometry. Ability to apply
concepts such as Fractions, percentages, ratios, and proportions to practical situations.

Additional Requirements

• Good color vision is also needed as the work may involve interpreting geological maps
and differentiating between various rocks and minerals.

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ACTS-HR-FM-03_Geophysist Rev.0

• Physical fitness and good health are important - the work may take place in remote areas
with difficult terrain. For overseas work, a second language is an advantage, as well as
cultural awareness and communication skills.

• good IT skills to process data and produce three-dimensional models of geophysical

features;
• numerical skills;
• project management skills;
• analytical and problem-solving skills;
• flexibility and adaptability;
• attention to detail and the ability to record information accurately;
• the ability to express ideas and findings clearly, both orally and in writing to produce
reports and make presentations;
• team working skills;
• the ability to work to deadlines and under pressure;
• a desire to travel - worldwide travel is a key feature of this career;
• Commitment to continual learning.

Computer Skills

• Word processing, Spreadsheets, Internet, E-mail, Database software.

Cooperation and • With the Head of the Geotechnical Division, Site Engineers and Senior Geophysicist from
Contact the company. With representatives from the clients and consultants and all companies and
firms associated with the geotechnical investigation project.

Language Ability
Languages
• Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance
instructions, and procedure manuals. Ability to write routine reports and correspondence.
Ability to speak effectively before groups of customers or employees of organization.

Protect the company’s brand image and follow confidentiality

• Responsibility to keep the company’s good brand image, irrespective of where they are
working (at the site or office) by wearing proper attire as per the procedure of ACTS, be
presentable at the workplace and keep their workplace neat and tidy. Responsible to
follow the confidentiality and impartiality procedure of ACTS.

Personal Attributes
Working Environment

• While performing the duties of this job the Geophysicist is frequently exposed to
wet and/or humid conditions; moving mechanical parts; precarious places; fumes
or airborne particles; outside weather conditions extreme cold; extreme heat; risk
of electrical shock; explosives; risk of vibration.

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ACTS-HR-FM-03_Geophysist Rev.0

• The noise level in the environment is moderate to loud.

Physical Demand

• While performing the duties of this job the Geophysicist is regularly required to
talk or hear. The Geophysicist is frequently required to stand; walk; use hands to
finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop; kneel,
crouch, or crawl and taste or smell. He is occasionally required to sit. The
Geophysicist is frequently required to lift up to 10 Kilograms and occasionally up
to 30 kilograms. The vision requirements include: close vision, distance vision,
peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.

Employee Acknowledgement

Name Signature Date

HR Acknowledgement

Name Signature Date

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