Geoscientists
Additional Information
Duties
Here is a typical list of geoscientists' tasks:
- Field researchers visit areas to collect samples and fill out questionnaires.
- These data sources include aerial photos, well logs (detailed records of geological formations revealed during drilling), rock samples, and other data sources.
- Analyze soil samples in the lab.
- Put together your geological data.
- Prepare written scientific articles.
- Clients, coworkers, and anybody else should be informed.
Geoscientists employ a variety of tools. EPR and chisel tools are used daily to collect rock samples to look for oil or minerals in the ground. Labs can utilize X-rays and electron microscopes to examine rock samples' chemical and physical makeup. They can also collect data using remote sensing and analyze it using GIS and modeling tools.
Geoscientists often supervise and coordinate work with other scientists in the field or lab.
Many geoscientists are interested in oil and gas exploration and production. Many others work to protect the environment, clean up pollution, and restore land. Oceanographers, for example, study the seas.
Some examples of geoscientists are:
Earth's composition, processes, and history. Their research focuses on the evolution of rocks and how they evolved over time. Stratigraphers study stratified rock, and mineralogists analyze minerals' structure and composition.
A geochemist studies the elements in the earth's crust and groundwater, such as wells or aquifers.
Geophysicists use physics to explore Earth's surface and interior. They also study the ionosphere, magnetosphere, and gravitational field.
Oceanographers are experts in determining how ocean water composition affects coastal areas, climate, and weather.
Paleontologists study fossils to learn about Earth's past geology and the evolution of plants and animals.
Petroleum geologists look for oil and gas in the Earth. A geologist locates possible exploring opportunities. Petroleum is found in rock and sediment samples taken by drilling and other means. They also estimate oil and gas deposits and the sites where they can be extracted.
Seismologists are scientists who study earthquakes and tsunamis. Seismographs and other equipment are used to collect data on these occurrences.
Education
A bachelor's degree in geology or a related discipline, such as physical science or natural resources, is often required for geoscientists to practice. Employers may prefer individuals with a master's degree versus those without one.
Mineralogy, petrology, and structural geology are all part of a geoscience degree. Coursework in mathematics, engineering, computer science, and other fields may also be required for certain programs.
It is not uncommon for geology schools to involve fieldwork, which offers students with hands-on experience in the field.
Important Characteristics
The ability to communicate effectively. Researchers in the geosciences write reports and articles. Others in the field, as well as non-geoscientist clients or colleagues, must be capable of understanding what they've learned and be able to communicate it effectively.
Analytical abilities. Based on rigorous observation and analysis, geoscientists draw their conclusions.
The ability to do well in the great outdoors. There's a good chance geoscientists spend a lot of time in the field. Fieldwork requires a familiarity with camping and trekking as well as a general sense of ease in the outdoors.
Stamina of the body. When doing fieldwork, geoscientists may be required to carry testing and sampling equipment over long distances on their backs.
Ability to think beyond the box. Geoscientists take on difficult and time-consuming tasks. Problem-solving skills are required for analyzing data and other information in order to make decisions that will influence the behavior of other employees.
Certificates, Permits, and Permit Numbers
Thirty-one states require a license to practice as a geologist. Despite the fact that a license is not necessary to practice as a geologist in many circumstances, in certain states, geologists who provide services to the public must be licensed. Civil engineering projects, environmental preservation, and regulatory compliance all fall under the umbrella of public services. Applicants must fulfill minimal educational and experience criteria and pass a test in order to be considered for employment. In order to become a licensed geologist in any state, a candidate must pass the ASBOG Fundamentals of Geology Exam (FGE).
Pay
For geoscientists, the typical yearly salary was $93,580 in May of 2020. It is the salary at which half the workers in an occupation earned more than that amount, and half earned less. 10 percent of those who worked earned less than $51,890, while the top 10 percent of earners took in more than $201,150 per year.
Job Projections
An increase in the number of geoscientists is expected from 2020 to 2030 of around 7%, which is approximately average for all occupations.