Image that illustrates Geophysicist

Geophysicist

47 800 kr

Geologists and geophysicists etc.

37 900 - 59 300 kr / month

Women earn 94% of what men do.

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What will be the salary after tax?

Salary progression Geophysicist

Average salary 47 800 kr
Males 48 800 kr
Females 45 900 kr

What does a geophysicist do? – Tasks and work environment

A geophysicist works on investigating the Earth's physical properties using advanced measurement instruments and analysis methods. Tasks include interpreting data from seismic, magnetic, or gravimetric surveys to map bedrock, mineral deposits, or groundwater reservoirs. Geophysicists often participate in research projects, environmental assessments, or exploration within the energy and mining industries. The work environment can range from fieldwork in challenging terrain to analytical office work involving advanced data processing and modeling.

Salary development over time

The salary for geophysicists has shown a steady upward trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 44,200 SEK per month, increasing to 46 400 in 2023 and further to 47,800 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 8.1% over the period. The growth reflects continued demand for expert skills in natural sciences and technical investigations, especially related to energy transition and environmental projects. Salary development is also influenced by competition for qualified personnel and a high level of education within the profession.

Geophysicist salary – complete overview

  • Average salary: 47,800 SEK/month
  • Lowest salary: 37,900 SEK/month (female, private sector employee, education < 3 years)
  • Highest salary: 59,300 SEK/month (male, private sector employee, data not available)
  • Hourly wage (average): 287 SEK/hour
  • Gender pay gap: Women earn 94% of what men do (men 48 800 SEK, women 45 900 SEK)
  • Regional differences: Data not available

Education and qualifications

To work as a geophysicist, a university or college degree in geoscience, physics, or related fields is usually required. The education includes both theoretical courses and practical components, often focusing on mathematics, physics, and data modeling. Many employers value experience from internships or research projects, especially within applied geophysics or environmental engineering.

  • Bachelor's or master's degree in geoscience, physics, or engineering (3–5 years)
  • Specialized courses in geophysics, geology, data modeling, and programming
  • Internships or trainee programs are common in the industry
  • Prerequisites in mathematics and science at high school level
  • Certifications may be required for international work or certain specialties

Geophysicists often work interdisciplinary and collaborate with experts in geology, environment, and engineering. The ability to communicate results to both technical and non-technical stakeholders is a key skill that distinguishes successful professionals from others.

– statsskuld.se

Common benefits and compensations

Geophysicists are often offered benefits such as pension schemes, extra vacation days, wellness allowances, and flexible working hours. Fieldwork may include per diems and travel allowances, while some employers provide further training and development opportunities within the company.

Competition and challenges

The job market for geophysicists is characterized by some specialization and competition for qualified positions. Since the profession is part of a broader group with geologists, competition may vary depending on economic conditions and current projects related to energy, environment, or infrastructure. Challenges include rapid technological changes, demands for advanced data analysis, and working in diverse environments, sometimes under tight deadlines. Limited data makes it difficult to provide precise forecasts for future job prospects, but the number of available positions indicates a relatively stable demand. To stand out, a combination of broad scientific knowledge and the ability to quickly adapt to new areas of work is often necessary.

Tips for aspiring geophysicists

To succeed as a geophysicist, it is beneficial to combine analytical skills with curiosity about natural science processes. Developing strong knowledge in mathematics and programming increases opportunities to work with advanced data analysis and modeling. Good teamwork skills are important, as the profession often involves interdisciplinary projects and contact with colleagues and external stakeholders. Being flexible and adaptable facilitates fieldwork and work in various environments. Communication skills are necessary to clearly convey results to both technical and non-technical audiences. Engagement and meticulousness are highly valued, especially in research-related tasks. Finally, being solution-oriented and proactive when new challenges arise is advantageous.

Key facts about geophysicists

  • Average salary: 47,800 SEK/month
  • Education level: Bachelor's or master's degree in geoscience or physics
  • Occupational group: Geologists and geophysicists, among others
  • Number of job openings: 143 positions within the profession
  • Gender pay gap: Women earn 94% of men's salaries

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a geophysicist, opportunities may open to take on greater responsibilities as project managers, specialists, or consultants within applied geophysics, environmental work, or energy. Further education or doctoral studies can lead to roles in academia or advanced research. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast, there is no specific assessment for geophysicists due to limited data, but the number of available positions suggests that demand remains relatively stable within the profession. Transitions within energy, environment, and technology sectors may influence future employment opportunities, and adaptability to new technologies and methods is highly valued.

Frequently asked questions about geophysicists

  • What is the average salary of a geophysicist?
    - A geophysicist has an average salary of 47,800 SEK per month.
  • What is required to become a geophysicist?
    - Typically, a bachelor's or master's degree in geoscience, physics, or engineering.
  • Are there salary differences between men and women?
    - Yes, women earn on average 94% of what men do in the profession.
  • What is the job market outlook for geophysicists?
    - There are 143 job openings, but no forecast is available due to limited data.
  • What are the tasks of a geophysicist?
    - Investigating Earth's physical properties, analyzing data, and participating in environmental, energy, and research projects.
  • What is the highest and lowest salary for a geophysicist?
    - The highest salary is 59,300 SEK and the lowest is 37,900 SEK per month.
  • Which personal qualities are important for a geophysicist?
    - Analytical skills, teamwork ability, flexibility, and communication skills are central qualities.

Who has the highest salary?
The highest salary for a Geophysicist is 59300 kr. This salary belongs to a man working in the Privately employed workers with a data missing. The highest salary for a woman in this profession is 47800 kr.
Who has the lowest salary?
The lowest salary for a Geophysicist is 37900 kr. This salary belongs to a woman also working in the Privately employed workers. The lowest salary for a man in this profession is 44800 kr.
Salary distributed by age and sector
Age Women's salary as a percentage of men's Base salary Monthly salary
25-34 96% 41300 kr 41800 kr
35-44 98% 47500 kr 47900 kr
45-54 51900 kr 52200 kr
55-64 54000 kr 54200 kr
Snitt 94% 47400 kr 47800 kr
Salary per sector
Salary based on education
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About the data

All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.

All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.

Profession Geophysicist has the SSYK code 2114, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.

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