Most commonly reported Work Activities

•   Getting Information Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
•   Analysing Data or Information Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
•   Interacting With Computers Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
•   Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
•   Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events Identifying information by categorising, estimating, recognising differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
•   Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
•   Processing Information Compiling, coding, categorising, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
•   Thinking Creatively Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
•   Making Decisions and Solving Problems Analysing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
•   Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.

Working Life

Geophysicists study the physical structure of the Earth. They find out about the Earth's origins and development by analysing fossils, sediments and previously molten rock, for example.  
 
Geophysicists understand how resources like oil, coal, gas and uranium are formed, and where they are likely to be found. They travel to areas where they think resources are, and take rock, soil and other samples to confirm their predictions. They control data quality and compile charts and reports.  
 
In oil exploration, geophysicists must be very confident that the right area has been found before drilling begins. They need to know what type of structure is being drilled, and how stable it is. This information may be obtained by taking rock samples, or drilling boreholes into sea and rock beds. Most oil companies have research laboratories, where new discovery techniques are developed.  
 
Other geophysicists find and manage water beneath the Earth's surface. This work is especially important in very hot countries, where water may exist mostly below ground. At the other extreme, geophysicists study and observe glaciers, tracing their origins and noting how they are affected by global climate change.  
 
Some geophysicists monitor the behaviour of earthquakes and volcanoes. They study fault lines, caused by the movement of the Earth's rock plates, to predict earthquakes. They may be able to predict volcanic eruptions by studying the distribution of ash and lava deposits. Exploration geophysicists must know if an area they are working in is prone to earthquakes, and what effects an earthquake might have on the rocks, soil, water and building materials they are working with.  
 
In seismic surveying, equipment is used to simulate vibrations from earthquakes. Vibrations are sent into the ground or sea, and the energy they produce eventually returns to the surface. Geophysicists are able to identify the type and shape of rocks and deposits beneath the surface by the different effects they have on the path of the energy. Geophysicists may advise on environmental issues, for example, the suitability of a proposed landfill site, methods to stop polluted water leaking from old mines, and the prevention of landslides.  
 
Some geophysicists work as researchers or teachers in universities.

Most commonly reported Work Tasks

• Plan or conduct geological, geochemical, or geophysical field studies or surveys, sample collection, or drilling and testing programmes used to collect data for research or application.
• Analyse and interpret geological data, using computer software.
• Investigate the composition, structure, or history of the Earth's crust through the collection, examination, measurement, or classification of soils, minerals, rocks, or fossil remains.
• Analyse and interpret geological, geochemical, or geophysical information from sources, such as survey data, well logs, bore holes, or aerial photos.
• Identify risks for natural disasters, such as mudslides, earthquakes, or volcanic eruptions.
• Prepare geological maps, cross-sectional diagrams, charts, or reports concerning mineral extraction, land use, or resource management, using results of fieldwork or laboratory research.
• Communicate geological findings by writing research papers, participating in conferences, or teaching geological science at universities.
• Locate and estimate probable natural gas, oil, or mineral ore deposits or underground water resources, using aerial photographs, charts, or research or survey results.
• Advise construction firms or government agencies on dam or road construction, foundation design, land use, or resource management.
• Measure characteristics of the Earth, such as gravity or magnetic fields, using equipment such as seismographs, gravimeters, torsion balances, or magnetometers.

Further Information

• Geophysicist- from: Institute of Physics in Ireland
• Geoscientist- from: N.C.S. [UK]
• Geoscientist- from: GradIreland

This occupation is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests:

 Investigative

The Investigative person will usually find a particular area of science to be of interest. They are inclined toward intellectual and analytical activities and enjoy observation and theory. They may prefer thought to action, and enjoy the challenge of solving problems with sophiscticated technology. These types prefer mentally stimulating environments and often pay close attention to developments in their chosen field.

 Realist

Realists are usually interested in 'things' - such as buildings, mechanics, equipment, tools, electronics etc. Their primary focus is dealing with these - as in building, fixing, operating or designing them. Involvement in these areas leads to high manual skills, or a fine aptitude for practical design - as found in the various forms of engineering.

Realists like to find practical solutions to problems using tools, technology and skilled work. Realists usually prefer to be active in their work environment, often do most of their work alone, and enjoy taking decisive action with a minimum amount of discussion and paperwork.

Most professional geophysicists are graduates. A combined degree in geology and physics, or a degree containing significant amounts of geology, maths and physics, may be acceptable. Many posts will require a good second class honours degree. It is often desirable but not essential to obtain higher degrees, e.g. Master's Degree in Geophysics.

Sample Education and Training Pathways
A number of courses are available throughout the country that focus on learning and skills that may be useful for this career. The examples and links below may guide you in your research. 

Further Education (FET)
Further Education & Training (FET) Courses are delivered by local ETBs, ranging in duration from several weeks up to 20 months. Courses are designed to meet the labour market needs and often include a large element of work experience.

Example search terms include: applied sciences, general engineering.

Search for FET Courses

PLC Courses (FET)
PLC courses are full-time courses, one or two years duration, with awards at Level 5 and 6 on the NFQ. They are offered nationally in Schools and Colleges of Further Education.

Example search terms include: applied sciences, general engineering.

Search for PLC Courses

Apprenticeships: 
Apprenticeships are structured work-based training programs that combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction. They run from 2 – 4 years and are open to individuals of all ages, including school leavers, those seeking a career change, and existing employees who wish to upskill.

Examples: Engineering, Geo-Driller.

Search for Apprenticeships

Higher Education CAO (Undergraduate) 
Higher Education courses at Levels 6 to 8 on the NFQ, delivered in Universities and Technological Universities & Institutes. Courses run from 2 – 5 years and places are allocated on a points-based system, processed by the Central Application Office.

Example search terms include: geography and geoscience, biological, earth and environmental sciences, science, mathematical, physical and geological sciences, sustainable energy engineering, geographic science .

Search for CAO Courses

Higher Education (Postgraduate)
Postgraduate courses are courses at Levels 9 and 10 on the NFQ and usually last 1 – 2 years full time, or longer if a PhD or part time. Entrants typically require an undergraduate award (Level 8).

Example search terms include: geoinformatics for environmental geology, geology, applied environmental geology, offshore, environmental geology, earth sciences, research, geology exploration, field geology.

Search for Postgraduate Courses

Professional Development 

Professional development (CPD) courses are specialised training, formal education, or advanced professional learning that improves skills, professional knowledge, competency, and overall effectiveness in the professional world.

Geological Society of Ireland

Check the Useful Contacts tab on this page to see if there are any professional bodies listed who may provide training related to this career.

Salary Range (thousands per year)* €30k - €68k

Salaries vary by employer, experience, duties, role, and location.

Data Source(s):
Morgan McKinley / CPL / Indeed

Last Updated: July, 2024

Note: The following information relates to occupations that include: Chemical scientists; Biological scientists; Biochemists; Physical scientists; Social and humanities scientists; Natural and social science professionals n.e.c.; Conservation professionals; Environment professionals; Research and development managers.  

This information has been derived from the Solas National Skills Bulletin (2023).

The annual employment growth rate over the five-year period was above average for this occupation, with employment increasing by almost 2,000 persons between 2021 and 2022. Almost a third of employment was in industry with the remainder spread across many sectors. The number of new employment permits issued grew from 164 to 506 between 2021 and 2022, with two fifths of permits issued for roles in the manufacturing of chemicals/pharma sub-sector for scientists and analysts (e.g. quality control, chemists); other roles include medical scientists/technologists, microbiologists, process development and R&D scientists.

In June 2022, medical scientists were moved to the Critical Skills Employment Permit List due to issues with sourcing suitable candidates; in Summer 2023, the Government announced plans to expand the number of training places for medical scientists by 20 places. The Recruitment Agency Survey identified difficult-to-fill vacancy mentions for analytical and process scientists. Online job adverts for this occupation grew slightly in 2022, almost all related to posts for R&D managers.

This was the most frequently occurring occupation in online job adverts in 2022. With employment levels increasing and demand still evident, shortages are expected to persist for this occupation, particularly in the chemical/pharmaceutical manufacturing sector, for those with experience and/or in niche areas. The recent decline in the value of pharmaceutical exports in Ireland is unlikely to have a significant impact on the demand for skills as, in addition to being in strong demand in the pharma & biopharma processing industry, they are much sought after elsewhere in both the life sciences sector (e.g. medical devices) and other manufacturing (e.g. food & beverage); in addition, Government focus (and investment) on research and innovation will also sustain the already strong demand for these skills. Shortages of analytical, process and medical scientists are likely to continue.

• Irish Association For Economic Geology

  • See contact form on website
  • Click Here

• Geological Survey of Ireland

  • Beggars Bush, Haddington Rd., Dublin 4
  • (01) 678 2896
  • Click Here

• Tyndall National Institute

  • Lee Maltings Complex, Dyke Parade, Cork City, Ireland
  • 021 2346177
  • [email protected]
  • Click Here

• Wind Energy Ireland

  • Sycamore House Millennium Park Osberstown Naas Co Kildare W91 D627
  • 045 899341
  • [email protected]
  • Click Here