As of May 18, 2021, the average salary for a Geophysicist III in the United States is $141,171 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $68.
However, a Geophysicist III's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Geophysicist III's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location, education and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Geophysicist III's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Geophysicist I | 0-2 years | $98,657 |
| Geophysicist II | 2-4 years | $104,308 |
| Geophysicist III | 4-7 years | $141,171 |
| Geophysicist IV | 7+ years | $156,184 |
| Geophysicist V | 7-10 years | $192,016 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Geophysicist IIIs. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Analysis | 27.59% |
| Data Management | 2.59% |
| Geographic Information System | 2.04% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Leadership
|
$146,818 |
4%
|
|
Data Processing
|
$142,583 |
1%
|
|
Consulting
|
$142,583 |
1%
|
Your level of education can impact your salary potential. While many Geophysicist IIIs enter the field with a Master's Degree or MBA degree, higher education can lead to more specialized and higher-paying roles.
According to our 100% employer-reported salary data, the median salary for a Geophysicist III with a Master's Degree or MBA is between $130,412 and $145,183).
Geophysicist III Salaries by Degree Level
| Degree Level | % of user with this level of education |
|---|---|
| No Diploma | 21.7% |
| High School | 52.2% |
| Associates | 26.1% |
| Bachelors | 21.7% |
| Masters | 52.2% |
| Doctorate | 26.1% |
Understanding how a Geophysicist III's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on May 18, 2021Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As a Geophysicist III, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.
| Next Step Role | Estimate Salary | Projected Raise |
|---|---|---|
| Biologist IV | $120,734 | -14% |
| Geologist IV | $109,460 | -22% |
| Geophysicist IV | $156,184 | 11% |
| Microbiologist IV | $93,591 | -34% |
Salaries for a Geophysicist III can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $115,354 in 2023 to around $99,369 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Geophysicist III salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
View More
|
| 2023 | $115,354 |
| 2024 | $106,356 |
| 2025 | $99,369 |
| 2026 |
View More
|
| 2027 |
View More
|
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A Geophysicist III's earning potential can vary widely depending on several factors, including location, industry, experience, education, and the specific employer. According to the latest salary data by Salary.com, a Geophysicist III earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of a Geophysicist III is $178,059.
The highest pay for Geophysicist III is $183,422.
The lowest pay for Geophysicist III is $104,909.
Designs, coordinates, and conducts geophysical surveys using seismic, magnetic, gravity, electrical, and electromagnetic methods and technologies. Collects, processes, and interprets site data to develop maps and models to identify subsurface features. Communicates with engineers, geologists, and other environmental scientists to collaborate on research, exploration, and development projects. Monitors tectonic movements, magnetic fields, and seismic patterns to evaluate their impact on the organization's projects or infrastructure. Requires a bachelor's degree. Typically reports to a manager. Work is generally independent and collaborative in nature. Contributes to moderately complex aspects of a project. Typically requires 4-7 years of related experience.
Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.
We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)
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