Also called: Seismic Navigator, Marine Geophysical Technician
Runs the equipment that maps rock layers under the seafloor from survey ships.
On a seismic survey ship towing miles of cables, an observer monitors the sound sources and sensors, checks data quality, and works 12-hour shifts for five-week hitches.
Approximate: anchored on Bureau of Labor Statistics data for a broader job group.
Bachelor's degree (4-year), about 4 years after high school. Bachelor's in geophysics, geology, or electronics.
Ways in: 4-year college. Training cost: $15k – $60k.
Majors to look at: Geophysics, Geology, Electronics Technology.
Growing about average (about 3% over 10 years). BLS 2025-35 projection band for SOC 19-4043: Average (3% to 4%).
Medium risk for 10 years. Automated QC and fewer crew per survey ship are coming; offshore equipment and data checks still need people aboard.
Classes: Earth science, Physics, Computer applications.
Official data: O*NET occupation 19-4043.
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