What do Seismic Operators do?

Seismic Operators are responsible for four key phases of seismic operations:

Surveying: Operators use GPS and conventional survey equipment to create maps and design the routes where the seismic survey will take place.

Line Clearing: Operators clear trails in the bush using chainsaws, "cats" and mulchers.

Seismic Drilling: Operators drill holes using truck-mounted, track or heli-portable drills at prescribed locations. They place charges that will be detonated to create seismic waves underground.

Data Acquisition and Recording: Operators create shock waves by using explosives or vibrating equipment. They record characteristics of the underground rock structures from the recordings obtained from these waves.

The Seismic Operator occupation is made up of many specialized jobs, including the following:

Chainer: Measures, maps and finds drilling locations.

GPS Surveyor/Rover: Collects and processes survey readings.

Utilities Locator: Locates all buried utilities.

Chainsaw Bucker/Faller: Clears survey lines as per GPS readings.

Seismic Driller: Drills holes and places explosive charges.

Shooter/Blaster: Prepares equipment and detonates explosives.

Seismic Observer: Digitally records all seismic readings.

Field Equipment Coordinator: Coordinates movement of vehicles and equipment.

Troubleshooter: Repairs all seismic equipment.

Vibrating Equipment Operator: Operates vibrating equipment that generates shock waves.