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Senior Geophysicist

Chantilly, Virginia, United States

For more than 50 years, ENSCO has been providing leading-edge engineering, science and advanced technology solutions to governments and private industries worldwide.

ENSCO prides itself in creating and applying advanced technologies for mission success. We provide systems engineering, integration, and advanced technology services to transform the future safety, security, and resiliency of critical missions on the ground, in the air, in space, and in the information systems that connect these domains.

Learn more about ENSCO.

Position Description

ENSCO is seeking an experienced and highly skilled Senior Geophysicist to lead and support advanced geophysical initiatives in national security, underground facility characterization, and Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) vulnerability assessment. This role requires deep expertise in seismic, electromagnetic, and radar-based geophysical methods, as well as proficiency in cutting-edge modeling, algorithm development, and interdisciplinary collaboration. The ideal candidate will combine technical expertise with leadership capabilities to drive innovative solutions for complex challenges in support of Department of Defense (DoD) and Intelligence Community (IC) missions.

Key Responsibilities:

Geophysical Data Collection and Processing:
•    Lead the design, execution, and analysis of geophysical surveys using seismic reflection, refraction, electromagnetic methods, and ground-penetrating radar (GPR).
•    Oversee field operations, ensuring the integration of multi-sensor data for comprehensive subsurface assessments.
Modeling and Inversion:
•    Develop and apply advanced geophysical models, including synthetic aperture radar (SAR), 3D imaging, and matrix inversion techniques, for subsurface characterization.
•    Lead the creation of predictive models for vulnerability assessments and battle damage analysis of underground facilities (UGFs) and WMD-related systems.
Algorithm and Tool Development:
•    Design and implement algorithms for signal processing, data fusion, and machine learning-based geophysical analysis.
•    Develop tools to integrate geophysical datasets with physics-based models and simulation environments.
Technical Leadership and Innovation:
•    Provide technical oversight for large-scale geophysical projects, ensuring alignment with mission-critical objectives.
•    Mentor junior team members and contribute to the development of organizational expertise in geophysics and related disciplines.
Collaboration and Stakeholder Engagement:
•    Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including engineers, chemists, data scientists, and software developers, to deliver integrated solutions.
•    Engage with government sponsors to define requirements, provide technical briefings, and deliver actionable insights.
Research and Development:
•    Drive the innovation of novel geophysical methodologies, including radar polarimetry, tomographic imaging, and electromagnetic modeling.
•    Contribute to R&D efforts in sensor design, autonomous monitoring systems, and enhanced geophysical data processing.
Documentation and Reporting:
•    Author technical reports, research papers, and presentations for government stakeholders.

Qualifications Required (Skills)

  •  Bachelor's degree in Geophysics, Geological Sciences, or a related field.
    •    7 years of experience in geophysics, with a focus on advanced modeling, inversion, and signal processing techniques.
    •    Demonstrated expertise in seismic and electromagnetic geophysics, radar systems, and subsurface imaging.
    •    Proficiency in advanced data processing, modeling, and analysis techniques, including multivariate regression, tomographic imaging, and synthetic aperture radar (SAR).
    •    Experience with software tools such as MATLAB, Python, ArcGIS, and other geophysical processing software.
    •    Advanced programming skills in C, C++, and other relevant languages for geophysical applications.
    •    Ability to lift 50 lbs.
    •    Active Secret Clearance with the ability to obtain/maintain TS/SCI clearance required, FOR WHICH YOU MUST BE A U.S. CITIZEN. 

    Work Environment
    This position may require travel to field sites, including austere and international locations, to oversee data collection and collaborate with operational teams. The candidate must demonstrate resilience and adaptability to operate in dynamic mission environments.

Qualifications Desired

  •  Ph.D. in Geophysics, Geological Sciences, or a related field.
    •    Experience leading large-scale geophysical projects for the Department of Defense (DoD) or Intelligence Community (IC).
    •    Knowledge of multi-sensor data integration and autonomous monitoring systems.
    •    Strong understanding of machine learning applications for geophysical signal analysis and anomaly detection.
    •    Field experience in austere environments, including planning and executing complex surveys.
    •    Professional certifications or memberships (e.g., AGU, SEG).
    •    Excellent leadership, mentorship, and stakeholder communication skills. 
    •    Active TS/SCI clearance preferred.

Req ID

3872BR

Internal Position Title

Staff Scientist

Employment Status

Regular Full-time

U.S. Citizenship

Yes

Background Check Type

7 year Pre-employment

Drug Screen Type

None

Export Control and Licensing

None

Contract Award Contingency

No

Salary Range

$108,203.82 - $195,248.60 USD

Benefits

At ENSCO, a positive working environment and a competitive salary are only part of the reason for choosing a career here. We offer a comprehensive benefits package that creates a stimulating and supportive environment where you can thrive - visit ensco.com/careers/benefits to learn more.

Export Control and Licensing

This position may involve access to technology or technical data that is controlled under U.S. export control laws and regulations and the release of which to a non US person may require an export license from the U.S. Government.

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Your data privacy is important to ENSCO. Please click here to view our privacy policy. California residents can click here to view your California privacy rights.

EEO Statement

ENSCO, Inc. and its wholly owned U.S. subsidiaries are Equal Opportunity Employers– veterans, disability

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