Geophysicist

UES, Inc.; St. Louis (MO); On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

UES, Inc. is seeking a hands-on Geophysicist for our St. Louis team to support diverse subsurface investigations. You will plan and execute geophysical surveys, interpret data, and communicate results to clients and project teams.

The ideal candidate has field experience, ability to manage small teams, and a drive to develop technical and project management skills within an established geophysical practice.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in geophysics, geology, or related geoscience.
• Valid Driver's License and clean driving record.
• Ability to pass background check screening per state requirements.
• Ability to obtain Geologist-in-Training (GIT) and/or Professional Geologist (PG) licensure.
• Ability to read & write and communicate technical information clearly.
• Willingness to learn Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR).
• Math and analytical skills for unit conversions and data interpretation.
• Ability to follow written, verbal, and diagram instructions.

Responsibilities

• Support and lead geophysical investigations using near-surface methods.
• Conduct field data collection, equipment setup, calibration, and QC.
• Process, analyze, and interpret geophysical datasets.
• Prepare figures and technical client deliverables.
• Collaborate with engineers, geologists, and project teams.
• Assist with proposal preparation and project planning.
• Support client communications and project execution.
• Travel up to 50–70% to regional projects.

Skills

Reading & writing

Communication

Team collaboration

Technical reporting

Education

Bachelor's degree in geophysics, geology, or related geoscience

Master's degree in Geophysics or related field preferred

Tools

Seismic Refraction

MASW

Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR)

Electrical Resistivity Imaging (ERI)

Electromagnetic (EM) Methods

Microgravity

SUE / Subsurface Utility Engineering

Job description

Overview

At UES, we're a team of more than 4,000 engineers, scientists, geologists, inspectors, technicians, and drillers united by a shared purpose—to make a meaningful impact in the communities we serve. As a national leader in geotechnical engineering, environmental consulting, and materials testing and inspection, we collaborate on transformative projects across transportation, energy, water, healthcare, and more. Learn more about the benefits of joining Team UES and our core values at careers.teamues.com.

Position Overview

UES is seeking a Geophysicist to join our growing geophysical services team in St. Louis. This position will support a variety of engineering, infrastructure, environmental, and subsurface investigation projects throughout the Midwest and surrounding regions.

We are looking for a hands-on geophysicist with practical field experience who enjoys solving complex subsurface challenges and working alongside engineers, geologists, and project teams. The ideal candidate has experience planning and executing geophysical surveys, interpreting data, and communicating results to clients and project stakeholders.

This role offers the opportunity to work with an established geophysical practice while continuing to develop technical expertise and project management skills.

Responsibilities

• Support and lead geophysical investigations using a variety of near-surface geophysical methods.
• Perform field data collection, equipment setup, calibration, and quality control.
• Process, analyze, and interpret geophysical datasets.
• Prepare technical reports, figures, and client deliverables.
• Collaborate with geotechnical engineers, environmental scientists, and geologists on multidisciplinary projects.
• Assist with proposal preparation and project planning activities.
• Support client communications and project execution.
• Travel as needed to support regional projects.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree (B.S.) in geophysics, geology, or related geoscience
• Valid Driver's License with an acceptable driving record (in accordance with our Driver's License and Motor Vehicle Record Check Criteria)
• Ability to pass a background check screening in accordance with Florida's Jessica Lunsford Act (or equivalent state classification)
• Ability to obtain Geologist-in-Training (GIT) and/or Professional Geologist (PG) licensure
• Ability to read & write, including interpreting documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals, as well as the ability to write routine reports and correspondence and speak effectively with colleagues, supervisors, and customers/clients
• Ability to learn how to use Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR)
• Mathematical skills sufficient to add, subtract, multiply, and divide into all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals
• Reasoning ability and understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, verbal, and diagram form

Preferred Qualifications

• 3-8 years of professional geophysical consulting or applied geophysics experience.
• Experience supporting engineering, transportation, infrastructure, environmental, or construction-related projects.
• Proficiency with geophysical methods such as:
• Seismic Refraction
• Multichannel Analysis of Surface Waves (MASW)
• Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR)
• Electrical Resistivity Imaging (ERI)
• Electromagnetic (EM) Methods
• Microgravity Surveys
• Utility Mapping and Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE)
• Experience planning and executing field investigations, including equipment setup, troubleshooting, data acquisition, and quality control.
• Familiarity with geophysical data processing and interpretation software.
• Experience preparing technical reports, figures, and client deliverables.
• Ability to communicate technical findings to engineers, geologists, clients, and project stakeholders.
• Experience leading small field crews or coordinating field activities.
• Working knowledge of geotechnical engineering, geology, environmental consulting, or subsurface investigations.
• OSHA 40-Hour HAZWOPER certification or ability to obtain.
• Experience supporting proposal development, project planning, or client-facing activities.
• Master's degree in Geophysics, Geology, Earth Sciences, Engineering, or a related discipline preferred but not required.
• Professional registration such as Professional Geologist (PG) or certification through the Society of Exploration Geophysicists is a plus.
• Demonstrated hands-on experience performing geophysical field investigations, data acquisition, processing, and interpretation.

Travel Requirements

This position requires moderate travel, approximately up to 50% to 70% of the time, in support of business objectives and client engagements. Travel may be both scheduled and on short notice, depending on project needs. Destinations typically include job sites, field locations, or regional offices, where work may be conducted in outdoor or operational environments. Adherence to all company safety protocols and use of PPE is required during travel and on-site work.

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Physical Demands & Work Environment

• This position primarily operates in a professional office environment, requiring the ability to work at a desk for extended periods while using a computer, phone, and standard office equipment.
• The position involves sitting for extended periods, performing data entry, and engaging in frequent communication via email, phone, and in-person interactions.
• The role involves regular communication with team members, clients, and stakeholders, both in person and through virtual platforms.
• The physical demands of the job may include occasional standing, walking, bending, and lifting of office materials up to 15 pounds

EEO Statement

UES is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is proud to recruit the most qualified candidates. Please see our full EEO Statement at the bottom of the page here.