Resistivity Survey

Term from Exploration industry explained for recruiters

A Resistivity Survey is a common method used in exploration to find what's hidden underground without digging. It's like taking an X-ray of the earth by sending small electrical currents into the ground and measuring how different materials respond. This helps exploration companies find valuable resources, understand groundwater locations, or check ground conditions before construction. Companies use this method because it's cost-effective and doesn't disturb the environment. You might also hear it called "electrical resistivity testing" or "electrical resistivity tomography (ERT)." It's one of several geophysical methods that exploration companies regularly use to make smart decisions about where to focus their detailed exploration work.

Examples in Resumes

Conducted Resistivity Survey, Electrical Resistivity, and ERT investigations across 5,000-acre exploration site

Led team of technicians performing Resistivity Survey operations to identify mineral deposits

Analyzed and interpreted Electrical Resistivity data for major mining exploration project

Typical job title: "Geophysical Surveyors"

Also try searching for:

Geophysicist Exploration Geophysicist Geophysical Technician Field Geophysicist Exploration Surveyor Geoscientist Geological Surveyor

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you plan a large-scale resistivity survey project?

Expected Answer: A senior candidate should discuss project planning aspects like survey design, equipment selection, team coordination, safety protocols, and data quality control. They should mention budget considerations and timeline management.

Q: What challenges have you faced interpreting resistivity data and how did you overcome them?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate problem-solving ability with real examples of dealing with noisy data, complex geology, or difficult terrain conditions, and explain how they ensured reliable results.

Mid Level Questions

Q: Can you explain how you ensure quality data collection during a resistivity survey?

Expected Answer: Should discuss practical field procedures, equipment calibration, proper electrode placement, and basic troubleshooting methods. Should mention weather conditions impact and data checking procedures.

Q: What software do you use for processing resistivity data and why?

Expected Answer: Should be familiar with common processing software and explain basic data processing steps, quality control, and presentation of results in a way that non-technical clients can understand.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What basic equipment is needed for a resistivity survey?

Expected Answer: Should be able to list basic equipment like resistivity meter, electrodes, cables, and basic safety gear. Should understand basic setup procedures.

Q: What safety considerations are important during resistivity surveys?

Expected Answer: Should mention basic field safety protocols, electrical safety, weather considerations, and communication procedures when working in remote areas.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic field setup and data collection
  • Equipment handling and maintenance
  • Basic safety procedures
  • Simple data recording and reporting

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Survey planning and execution
  • Data processing and interpretation
  • Project coordination
  • Client communication

Senior (5+ years)

  • Advanced project management
  • Complex data interpretation
  • Team leadership
  • Technical report writing and presentation

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No field experience with geophysical equipment
  • Lack of safety awareness or certification
  • Unable to explain basic principles of electrical resistivity
  • No experience with data collection and quality control