Geophysicist

Geophysicist / Sr. Geophysicist – Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS)

Search conducted by TriSearch on behalf of a confidential client

TriSearch is retained by a leading company in the geothermal energy sector to identify a Senior Geophysicist to support world-class exploration, development and operations of enhanced geothermal systems (EGS).

Position Summary

This position is responsible for geophysical evaluations to support world-class exploration, development and operations of enhanced geothermal systems (EGS). An individual in this role will work in a world-class collaborative and multi-disciplinary environment.

Essential Functions

• Maintains a safe work place and takes responsibility for safety with the goal of zero incidents
• Performs a variety of tasks with a capability to work independently or within a team environment. Completes work assignments with limited levels of supervision.
• Acts in a dependable manner and uses sound judgement in all activities.
• Prepares technical insights in a suitable communication method such as reports and presentations with accurate use of company tools, templates and standards
• Manages data and information in a manner that is consistent with company systems and processes
• Works independently on projects and leads activities to achieve timely, measurable and relevant outcomes for the company
• Conducts training internally or externally and acts as a coach or mentor to others in areas of specialized knowledge
• Participates in multi-disciplinary teams for work activities in addition to other periodic requirements such as due-diligence or joint ventures and can act as a primary contact person
• Able to identify, oversee, and evaluate consultants and consultant work products for implementation within the company's EGS development projects
• Actively works to innovate and improve company tools, systems and processes and ensures clear understanding of external best-practices
• Possesses a high willingness to apply novel analysis techniques to subsurface development, and engage with cutting-edge research to improve the company's EGS development program
• Develops conceptual models of geothermal systems in collaboration with geologists, geochemists, and reservoir engineers to support company goals for exploration, development, and operations.
• Responsible for geophysical recommendations aligned with department goals, contributing to the evaluation of geothermal prospects for acquisition, exploration, and operating asset optimization.
• Maintains knowledge of the latest technology and best practices in geothermal exploration and operations, with a focus on geophysical techniques.
• Works closely with geologists, reservoir engineers, and other disciplines to recommend subsurface targets for drilling campaigns based on world-class interpretations.
• Designs geophysical surveys, including but not limited to active seismic, passive seismic, magnetotellurics (MT), gravity, and magnetics, ensuring fit-for-purpose designs based on working hypotheses.
• Interprets both 2D and 3D seismic data, correlating wireline logs and other geological information to seismic data for integrated analysis.
• Monitors passive seismic data during EGS stimulation and operations for fracture characterization and compliance
• Manages geophysical acquisition through contractor and project management, working with procurement to secure the best services and ensure cost-effectiveness while maintaining quality.
• Responsible for pre-survey planning, including survey design, scouting, permitting, generation of maps, and organizing geospatial data sets.
• Conducts fieldwork as necessary for geophysical oversight, including performing in-house surveys periodically.
• Processes geophysical data, analyzes data quality, identifies noise sources, and maintains organized databases for efficient data handling.
• Performs numerous modeling techniques of geophysical datasets including: 2D and 3D Seismic Modeling, Passive Seismic event location, stimulation characterization, 2D MT modeling, inversions, gravity modeling, and integrated models of various geophysical datasets
• Conducts data mining, QA/QC of geophysical data, and performs equipment calibration and maintenance to ensure the accuracy and reliability of data.
• Prepares maps, cross sections, and other figures to represent geophysical interpretations and support the development of conceptual models.
• Other duties and projects as assigned by management

Education, Experience, and Skills Required

• Must possess Master of Science or Engineering in a relevant subject. A Doctorate degree in a relevant subject is advantageous.
• Must have a minimum of 5 years' experience in the industry or related fields, generally with 5 to 20 years of experience.
• Experience in geophysical surveys and analysis is required.
• Must have experience integrating active and passive seismic data and integrating seismic models with subsurface conceptual models and fault characterization.
• Must have experience analyzing downhole petrophysical and image logs and characterizing subsurface conditions and rock properties from these logs.
• Must have experience interpreting and modeling seismic, magnetotelluric, gravity, and magnetic surveys. Experience in other geophysical techniques is advantageous.
• Experience in geothermal exploration and development is advantageous.
• Experience characterizing subsurface stress distribution, orientation, and characteristics is advantageous.
• Experience monitoring hydraulic fracturing and stimulation programs is advantageous.
• Experience characterizing igneous and metamorphic geologic environments is advantageous.
• Experience in data science and quantitative analysis is advantageous.
• Experience in Project Management is preferred. Experience under the PMI project management framework is preferred, ideally holding either CAPM or PMP qualification.
• Must be able to use and acquire knowledge of a variety of computer software applications in word processing, spreadsheets, database and presentation. Must be proficient in MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint and use of the Internet.
• Proficiency in Matlab and Python programming is preferred.
• Proficiency in technical specialist applications including, but not limited to, ArcGIS, ENVI, Global Mapper, Petrel, Leapfrog, WellCAD and Surfer.
• Must have strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Must be able to read, write and speak English at a level which will permit the employee to accurately understand and communicate information to safely and efficiently perform the job duties.
• Ability to prioritize and plan work activities so time is used efficiently and effectively.
• Must demonstrate accuracy and thoroughness to ensure quality performance.
• Ability to identify and resolve problems in a timely manner.
• Must possess a valid driver's license with a driving record acceptable to the company's auto insurance carrier.

Physical Requirements

• The ability to work in an office environment and to work at a computer, and computer monitor, and use repetitive motion for long periods of time
• The ability to work in a power plant and wellfield near hot pipes, drilling rigs and heavy equipment
• The ability to navigate and work in remote field locations and work outdoors in difficult weather conditions
• The ability to walk, hike, and work on steep, rough terrain for extended periods of time
• The ability to safely operate 4WD light vehicles on highways and off-road safely
• The ability to wear appropriate personal protective equipment
• The ability to periodically lift up to 25 lbs
• The ability to travel up to 30% of the time, including internationally

Salary Range: $170,000 - $230,000

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