Senior Subsurface Geophysicist (Remote)

Placements24; South Africa; Remote; ZAR 1,400,000 - 2,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Private medical insurance

Retirement contributions

Life assurance

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Subsurface Geophysicist to join a fully remote team focused on leading exploration efforts in the energy sector. The role emphasizes advanced seismic interpretation, multi-dataset integration, and quantitative analysis to evaluate hydrocarbon prospects.

The candidate will work across a global geoscience team, shaping exploration strategies, data workflows, and decision-making. A strong remote-working track record and rigorous data quality standards are essential.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Geophysics, Earth Sciences, or a related field.
• 7+ years of experience in exploration geophysics within the oil and gas industry.
• Proven expertise in seismic interpretation, data processing, and attribute analysis.
• Proficiency with major geophysical interpretation software packages.
• Strong understanding of geological principles and their relationship to geophysical data.
• Experience with well tie analysis and integration of well data.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Superior written and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fully remote setting.

Responsibilities

• Interpret 2D and 3D seismic data to identify subsurface structures and hydrocarbon prospects.
• Integrate seismic, gravity, and magnetic data to build subsurface models.
• Use seismic processing and interpretation software to enhance data quality.
• Perform amplitude variation with offset (AVO) analyses and related methods.
• Collaborate with geologists and reservoir engineers on integrated models.
• Provide recommendations for data acquisition, processing, and QC.
• Assess geological and geophysical risks for exploration targets.
• Prepare technical reports and prospect evaluations for management.
• Mentor junior geophysicists and contribute to team development.
• Stay updated on new geophysical technologies and methodologies.

Skills

Seismic interpretation

Data processing

Attribute analysis

Geophysical software

AVO analysis

Well tie analysis

Analytical thinking

Communication

Independent work

Education

Master's degree or PhD in Geophysics or Earth Sciences

Tools

OpendTect

Petrel

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a forward-thinking energy company at the forefront of exploration technology, is looking for a Senior Subsurface Geophysicist to join their esteemed fully remote team. This position is crucial for interpreting complex geophysical data, including seismic, gravity, and magnetic surveys, to identify and evaluate potential hydrocarbon reserves. You will play a key role in developing exploration strategies, assessing subsurface risks, and optimizing data acquisition and processing workflows. Working within a globally distributed team of geoscientists and engineers, you will utilize cutting-edge software and analytical techniques. This role demands a blend of deep technical expertise, strong analytical skills, and the ability to collaborate effectively in a virtual environment. We seek an individual who is passionate about subsurface imaging and its application in the energy sector, and who can thrive in a remote-first culture that emphasizes innovation and professional autonomy.

Key Responsibilities

• Interpret 2D and 3D seismic data to identify subsurface structures, stratigraphy, and potential hydrocarbon accumulations.
• Integrate various geophysical datasets (seismic, gravity, magnetic) to build comprehensive subsurface models.
• Utilize advanced seismic processing and interpretation software (e.g., OpendTect, Petrel) to enhance data quality and insights.
• Conduct amplitude variation with offset (AVO) analysis and other quantitative seismic methods.
• Work closely with geologists and reservoir engineers to build integrated subsurface models and evaluate prospects.
• Develop recommendations for data acquisition, processing, and quality control to improve imaging.
• Assess geological and geophysical risks associated with exploration targets.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, presentations, and prospect evaluations for management.
• Mentor junior geophysicists and contribute to the team's technical development.
• Stay current with emerging geophysical technologies and methodologies.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Geophysics, Earth Sciences, or a related field.
• A minimum of 7 years of experience in exploration geophysics within the oil and gas industry.
• Proven expertise in seismic interpretation, data processing, and attribute analysis.
• Proficiency with major geophysical interpretation software packages.
• Strong understanding of geological principles and their relationship to geophysical data.
• Experience with well tie analysis and integration of well data.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Superior written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fully remote setting.
• Strong commitment to data quality and technical rigor.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including private medical insurance, retirement contributions, and life assurance. As a fully remote position, we provide a flexible work schedule and support for setting up an optimal home office environment. Employees benefit from continuous professional development opportunities, including access to training, workshops, and industry conferences. You will be part of a globally recognized organization committed to innovation, sustainability, and fostering a supportive, collaborative culture. This role provides the chance to work on exciting projects with a talented international team and make a tangible impact on the future of energy exploration.