Geophysicist (Research Scientist) (Arizona Geological Survey)

Posting Number req26943

Department Arizona Geological Survey

Department Website Link https://azgs.arizona.edu/

Location Tucson Campus Address Tucson, AZ USA

Position Highlights

The Arizona Geological Survey at the University of Arizona invites you to apply to the role of Geophysicist (Researcher/Scientist III). This role is ideal for a field-oriented researcher with expertise in collecting and analyzing magnetotelluric (MT), controlled-source audio magnetotelluric (CSAMT), gravity, aeromagnetic, and/or seismic data with applications to subsurface energy resource characterization.

The Geophysicist will design, implement, and actively participate in field-based geophysical data collection campaigns; process raw datasets; and integrate multiple large datasets to develop 2D and 3D subsurface models. The Arizona Geological Survey (AZGS) provides trusted geologic information that enhances public understanding of Arizona's geology, natural hazards, landscapes, and mineral resources. Working closely with state, tribal, local, and industry partners, AZGS delivers technical expertise and guidance to support informed decision-making and responsible land and resource management. Through its mission, AZGS helps advance public safety, sustainable development, and the effective stewardship of Arizona's geologic resources.

Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more! The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs. For more information about working at the University of Arizona and relocations services, please click here.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Design, permit, and manage field-based geophysical data collection campaigns in challenging Arizona terrain, with emphasis on MT data and or CSAMT collection.
• Perform quality control and troubleshoot geophysical equipment.
• Conduct fieldwork individually and as part of a team to accomplish scientific tasks in support of the Geophysics and Energy Geology Groups.
• Process geophysical datasets, with specific emphasis in MT, and generate 2D/3D inversion models.
• Create and manage large geologic and geophysical datasets in multiple, often simultaneous, projects related to energy resources and subsurface geology in Arizona.
• Aid in field deployments for passive seismic systems and help maintain the AZGS broadband seismic network.
• Participate in writing proposals for external funding from federal and state agencies and private partners.
• May lead or co-lead development of proposals.
• Will co-author geologic maps, models, technical reports, and peer-reviewed scientific papers and will give public and scientific presentations.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Expert knowledge of geophysical data collection methods, with an emphasis on magnetotellurics.
• Expertise in field deployment and management of field operations.
• Good technical writing skills.
• Good communication skills; able to effectively present results to people unfamiliar with MT.

This job posting reflects the general nature and level of work expected of the selected candidate(s). It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The institution reserves the right to amend or update this description as organizational priorities and institutional needs evolve.

Minimum Qualifications

Master's degree in Geology or a related field, AND a minimum of three years of relevant work experience is required. Ability to drive according to the University Fleet Safety Policy.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with data analysis in Python.
• Experience processing S-EGY, mSEED, or other time-series geophysical datasets.
• Experience post-processing magnetotelluric datasets.
• Experience interpreting MT datasets.

FLSA

Exempt

Full Time/Part Time

Full Time

Number of Hours Worked per Week

40

Job FTE

1.0

Work Calendar

Fiscal

Job Category

Research

Benefits Eligible

Yes - Full Benefits

Rate of Pay

$59,404 - $74,254

Compensation Type

salary at 1.0 full-time equivalency (FTE)

Grade

8

Compensation Guidance

The Rate of Pay Field represents the University of Arizona’s good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. The University considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, education/training, key skills, and internal equity. The Grade Range represents a full range of career compensation growth over time. The university offers compensation growth opportunities within its career architecture. To learn more about compensation, please review our Applicant Compensation Guide and our Total Rewards Calculator.

Career Stream and Level

PC3

Job Family

Researchers & Scientists

Job Function

Research

Type of criminal background check required

Name-based criminal background check (non-security sensitive)

Number of Vacancies

1

Target Hire Date

10/12/2026

Expected End Date

null

Contact Information for Candidates

Jeri Young Ben-Horin, Ph.D. Chief of Geophysics jeribenhorin@arizona.edu

Open Date

9/2/2026

Open Until Filled

Yes

Documents Needed to Apply

Resume and Cover Letter

Special Instructions to Applicant

Notice of Availability of the Annual Security and Fire Safety Report In compliance with the Jeanne Clery Campus Safety Act (Clery Act), each year the University of Arizona releases an Annual Security Report (ASR) for each of the University’s campuses. These reports disclose information including Clery crime statistics for the previous three calendar years and policies, procedures, and programs the University uses to keep students and employees safe, including how to report crimes or other emergencies and resources for crime victims. As a campus with residential housing facilities, the Main Campus ASR also includes a combined Annual Fire Safety report with information on fire statistics and fire safety systems, policies, and procedures. Paper copies of the Reports can be obtained by contacting the University Compliance Office at cleryact@arizona.edu.