Geophysicists

According to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), geoscientists (which includes geophysicists) earned an average annual salary of $92,580 in May 2023. The lowest paid 10 percent earned less than $52,500 per year, while the highest paid 10 percent earned more than $172,600 annually. The average salary for a geophysicist working for state government agencies was $82,370. Hydrologists earned salaries that ranged from less than $57,120 to $141,790 or more. 

Earth science professors earned a median annual salary of $100,690 in May 2023, according to the DOL. Salaries depend on experience, education, and professional rank. Faculty members may teach in summer school for additional compensation and also engage in writing, consulting, and research for government, industry, or business.

Additional compensation is awarded to geophysicists who are required to live outside the United States.

Both the federal government and private industry provide additional benefits, including vacations, retirement pensions, health and life insurance, and sick leave benefits.