Senior Geophysicist

Zetica; Eynsham; On-site; GBP 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading geophysical firm is seeking a Senior Geophysicist to lead and manage complex geophysical projects in Eynsham. The ideal candidate will have a postgraduate degree in geophysics and at least 7 years of experience in high-resolution geophysical investigations. Responsibilities include oversight of geophysical surveys, data quality assurance, and mentorship of junior staff. This is a full-time, permanent position offering various benefits, including private medical insurance and a cycle to work scheme.

Benefits

Casual dress

Company events

Company pension

Cycle to work scheme

On-site parking

Private medical insurance

Profit sharing

Qualifications

• At least 7 years of relevant hands-on experience in high-resolution, near-surface geophysical investigations.
• Proven track record of managing complex, large-scale projects from planning through to delivery.
• Strong leadership capabilities with excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and planning of geophysical surveys.
• Oversee data quality and ensure technical integrity during fieldwork.
• Provide leadership in project processing, interpretation, and reporting.

Skills

Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR)

Electromagnetics (EM)

Magnetometry

Microgravity

Electrical methods (e.g., resistivity, induced polarisations)

Seismic methods (e.g., P- and S-wave seismic refraction, surface wave analysis)

Python coding

GIS and mapping tools (AutoCAD, MicroStation, ArcGIS, QGIS)

Education

Postgraduate degree in geophysics or a related field

Tools

Oasis Montaj

GeoGiga

SurfSeis

Res2Dinv

Zonde

Aarhus Workbench

Job description

Summary

We are seeking a Senior Geophysicist who is highly motivated, inquisitive, and thorough, capable of leading and managing complex geophysical projects. This individual will have in-depth knowledge of geophysical investigations, a strategic mindset, and a passion for mentoring and sharing knowledge within our growing team.

Responsibilities

• Technical Leadership: Lead the design and planning of geophysical surveys, providing input on complex technical solutions at the proposal stage, and refining these during project execution. As a senior member of the team, oversee the application of advanced geophysical techniques to meet client needs.
• Fieldwork Oversight: Oversee data quality and ensure technical integrity throughout fieldwork stages, conducting site visits as required. Ensure field teams are fully supported, while also leading technically demanding fieldwork when necessary.
• Advanced Data Analysis: Provide leadership in the processing, interpretation, and reporting stages of projects, taking full responsibility for complex and high‑value projects. Review outputs and ensure data‑driven insights are delivered clearly to clients and internal teams.
• Quality and Innovation: Maintain and enhance Zetica's high standards of quality assurance, ensuring that projects are delivered on time and within budget, while incorporating innovative techniques and solutions where applicable.
• Cross‑Sector Expertise: Lead projects across Zetica's core departments, including transport infrastructure, engineering/geotechnical, geological/environmental geophysical surveys, unexploded ordnance detection, and utility service detection. Drive excellence in a variety of sectors, applying advanced geophysical methodologies and instrumentation.
• Mentorship and Development: Mentor junior staff and provide technical guidance to colleagues, helping to develop the skills and expertise of the wider team.
• Occasional Fieldwork: While the role will be predominantly office‑based, undertake occasional fieldwork, mostly in the UK but potentially involving international travel depending on project requirements.

Requirements

• Academic Qualifications: A postgraduate degree in geophysics or a related field.
• Experience: At least 7 years of relevant hands‑on experience in high‑resolution, near‑surface geophysical investigations, with a proven track record of managing complex, large‑scale projects from planning through to delivery. Significant experience leading teams and overseeing high‑value projects.
• Technical Expertise: Proficiency in a wide range of geophysical methods, including:
  • Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR)
  • Electromagnetics (EM)
  • Magnetometry
  • Microgravity
  • Electrical methods (e.g., resistivity, induced polarisations)
  • Seismic methods (e.g., P‑ and S‑wave seismic refraction, surface wave analysis)
• Software Proficiency: Expertise in geophysical data processing and interpretation software such as Oasis Montaj, GeoGiga, SurfSeis, Res2Dinv, Zonde, Aarhus Workbench, or similar. Experience with Python coding for custom data processing and automation is highly desirable, along with proficiency with GIS and mapping tools like AutoCAD, MicroStation, ArcGIS, and QGIS.
• Leadership and Communication: Strong leadership capabilities, with excellent written and verbal communication skills. Ability to present complex technical findings to both technical and non‑technical stakeholders.
• Strategic Thinking: Forward‑thinking individual who can identify opportunities for innovation and is adept at driving research and development within the geophysics discipline.
• Work Eligibility: Must already have the right to work in the UK; we do not sponsor visas.

Job Details

• Job Type: Full‑time, Permanent
• Location: Eynsham (preferred)
• Work Location: In person
• Willingness to Travel: 25% (preferred)
• Driving Licence: Full clean manual driving licence (required)

Benefits

• Casual dress
• Company events
• Company pension
• Cycle to work scheme
• On‑site parking
• Private medical insurance
• Profit sharing