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Earth Sciences Careers and Jobs

Select, Find and Prepare for Earth Sciences Careers and Jobs - all on one page

For science-minded people interested in the physical earth systems, from geology to climate to oceans. Use the tools below to see which earth sciences roles fit your background and goals.

This field spans geology, meteorology, and oceanography, and many advanced research roles require a master's degree or higher. Use the tools below to explore Earth Sciences-related job titles sorted by growth rate, salary, or required education. You can start with entry points like Field Technician, or look ahead to advanced roles such as Geologist or Hydrologist. Along the way, you will see specific certifications, such as Professional Geologist (PG) License, that can help you move up the career ladder.



4 Steps to Use This Page: 1-Explore Careers of Intrerest 2-See Job Listings Matched to Career 3-Prepare for the Career 4-See External Career Resources

Here is a short Helper Video External Link

This page will take you through 4 steps to (1) Select from Earth Sciences careers/jobs, (2) Find Earth Sciences job listings, (3) Prepare for Earth Sciences careers, and (4) Provide Earth Sciences career-specific resources.

Step 1: Select a Career/Job: This page starts with 4 ways for you to identify and select from listings of Earth Sciences careers/jobs:
A) Fastest Growing Earth Sciences Careers - 2023 to 2033 (est.)
These listings are based on job growth estimates and helps you to identify the fastest growing and evolving Earth Sciences careers. Some careers may not initially seem related to Earth Sciences, so relevant Earth Sciences jobs are listed alongside each listing. This can also help us to identify which careers (bottom of the listing) may have negative growth - perhaps due to automation or planned obsolescence.
B) Median Annual Salary U.S. Earth Sciences Careers
These listings are sorted (descending) by median annual salary in the U.S. This may help us to identify our ideal career. We may not qualify at this time for the desired career, but this listing and the results provided can help us to explore job details, as well as learn how to appropriately prepare for the career.
C) Earth Sciences Career Ladders (Educational Requirements)
These listings will help us to identify Earth Sciences careers sorted by educational requirements (with the most difficult to obtain listed first). This may help us to identify career ladders (as we scroll down the list), and help us to get jobs that we qualify for now.
D) Select From a Listing of 59 Earth Sciences Jobs.
The list may be quite long. There are two ways you might like to use this list:
1) Filter - As you enter a word, you will filter (limit) the list of job titles
2) Browse the list (Don't Filter) - You can simply explore the list of job titles. There may be many that you might never have considered to be of interest.
Once you have identified a job title of interest, simply click on it.

Step 2: Find a Job: After you have selected a career/job title above, you will see a form asking for your location. You will see several radio selection choices to utilize the job search site of your choice.

Step 3: Prepare For a Career: In this section you will gain access to detailed information to help you prepare for the chosen career. Information may include (not every career choice includes all of the elements below - updates occur quarterly):
Core Duties: Lists the primary worker-related tasks performed in this occupation
Supplemental Duties: Lists additional tasks that are performed but are secondary to the core duties
Work Activities: Summarizes the broad types of behaviors and actions related to this career
Specific Work Activities: Provides more granular day-to-day activities tied to the work performed
Essential Skills: Provides foundational skills that are core to performing this specific occupation
Transferable Skills: Provides career-portable skills that can be applied across multiple occupations and industries
Day-in-the-Life Summaries: Provides a snapshot of the key activities performed on a typical workday in this career
Knowledge Required: Provides the requirements regarding the acquisition of facts and principles
Software Skills: Lists software tools commonly used in this occupation, organized by category and priority
Preparation Required: Provides a summary of the required experience and education
Education Required: Detailed breakdown of the education required
Training and Experience Required: Detailed breakdown of the training and Training and Experience Required
Local Salary Information: Provides national and local salary ranges
Certifications: Provides appropriate government and private-sector certifications and/or credentials that may be required
Professional Associations: Provides professional associations that are related to the career selected
Job Listings: Provides links to active current job listings for the selected career, along with multiple similar job titles to explore. All information appears on this page without navigating away.
Related Careers to Consider: Lists up to 20 careers that might be of interest to you (related to your initial choice - what they do, what they know, and what they're called), ranked by best fit.

** If you clicked on a link from section D (as described in Step 1 above), you will see one or more links to an occupation that is usually a bit more general than your initial job selection - the link(s) is directly related to the specific job you identified through your prior selections.
*NOTE: It is possible that there may not be a career path identified for the specific job you selected in Step 1. If this is the case, scroll up the page and click on a different career/job.

Step 4: Career-Specific Resources (detailed and constantly updated): Continue to scroll down the page and you will find tabs that provide detailed (updated) links specific to the career you selected. This information includes:
Videos: Provides a listing of video links related to this career. A great way to get a quick overview of the occupation.
Resumes: Sources for resume materials and techniques. This can help to get you started.
Job Description: Sources that provide job descriptions, which are vital to resume and interview preparation.
Interviews: Provides links that can help you to prepare for and successfully complete the job interview. Can also assist with coffee chats.
Step by Step: Provides links to resources that can help to organize the career search process.
LinkedIn: One of the best professional social media sites that provides links, opportunities, and networking specifically for careers and career development.




Step 1 of 4: Select a Career/Job

10 Earth Sciences careers are listed below (sorted by Percentage Change in Total Job Openings - 2023 to 2033 est.). Earth Sciences-related jobs specific to each career are also provided. This shows which careers are emerging and growing the fastest. Please Scroll and Select below:

Occupations U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033 (% change) Earth Sciences-Related Jobs

Engineering Teachers, Postsecondary 12.5% Geological Engineering Teacher
Occupation: Engineering Teachers, Postsecondary U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: 12.5% Earth Sciences-Related Jobs: Geological Engineering Teacher
Atmospheric and Space Scientists 8.3% Broadcast Meteorologist; Computer Meteorologist; Hydrometeorological Technician (Hydrometeorological Tech); Hydrometeorologist; Marine Meteorologist; Meteorological Engineer; Meteorological Technician (Meteorological Tech); Meteorologist; Morning Meteorologist; Oceanographic Meteorologist; Operational Meteorologist; Physical Meteorologist; Research Meteorologist; Synoptic Meteorologist; Warning Coordination Meteorologist
Occupation: Atmospheric and Space Scientists U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: 8.3% Earth Sciences-Related Jobs: Broadcast Meteorologist; Computer Meteorologist; Hydrometeorological Technician (Hydrometeorological Tech); Hydrometeorologist; Marine Meteorologist; Meteorological Engineer; Meteorological Technician (Meteorological Tech); Meteorologist; Morning Meteorologist; Oceanographic Meteorologist; Operational Meteorologist; Physical Meteorologist; Research Meteorologist; Synoptic Meteorologist; Warning Coordination Meteorologist
Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers 7% Consultant Geologist; Development Geologist; Engineering Geologist; Environmental Geologist; Environmental Protection Geologist; Exploration Geologist; Field Geologist; Geological Scout; Geological Specialist; Geologist; Marine Geologist; Mine Geologist; Mining Production Geologist; Oceanographer; Operations Geologist; Petroleum Geologist; Project Geologist; Research Geologist; Spectral Geologist; Wellsite Geologist
Occupation: Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: 7% Earth Sciences-Related Jobs: Consultant Geologist; Development Geologist; Engineering Geologist; Environmental Geologist; Environmental Protection Geologist; Exploration Geologist; Field Geologist; Geological Scout; Geological Specialist; Geologist; Marine Geologist; Mine Geologist; Mining Production Geologist; Oceanographer; Operations Geologist; Petroleum Geologist; Project Geologist; Research Geologist; Spectral Geologist; Wellsite Geologist
Atmospheric, Earth, Marine, and Space Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary 6.4% Geological Science Teacher; Geology Professor; Geology Teacher; Hydrometeorology Teacher; Meteorology Faculty Member; Meteorology Professor; Meteorology Teacher; Oceanography Professor; Oceanography Teacher
Occupation: Atmospheric, Earth, Marine, and Space Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: 6.4% Earth Sciences-Related Jobs: Geological Science Teacher; Geology Professor; Geology Teacher; Hydrometeorology Teacher; Meteorology Faculty Member; Meteorology Professor; Meteorology Teacher; Oceanography Professor; Oceanography Teacher
News Analysts, Reporters, and Journalists 6% Broadcast Meteorologist
Occupation: News Analysts, Reporters, and Journalists U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: 6% Earth Sciences-Related Jobs: Broadcast Meteorologist
Natural Sciences Managers 5.8% Geological Manager
Occupation: Natural Sciences Managers U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: 5.8% Earth Sciences-Related Jobs: Geological Manager
Hydrologists 5.6% Hydrogeologist; Project Hydrogeologist
Occupation: Hydrologists U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: 5.6% Earth Sciences-Related Jobs: Hydrogeologist; Project Hydrogeologist
Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment 4.5% Meteorological Equipment Repairer
Occupation: Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: 4.5% Earth Sciences-Related Jobs: Meteorological Equipment Repairer
Mining and Geological Engineers, Including Mining Safety Engineers 3.9% Geological Engineer
Occupation: Mining and Geological Engineers, Including Mining Safety Engineers U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: 3.9% Earth Sciences-Related Jobs: Geological Engineer
Architectural and Civil Drafters -0.9% Geological Drafter
Occupation: Architectural and Civil Drafters U.S. Job Openings 2023-2033: -0.9% Earth Sciences-Related Jobs: Geological Drafter

12 Earth Sciences careers are listed below (sorted by U.S. National Median Salary). Earth Sciences-related jobs specific to each occupation are also provided. Please Scroll and Select below::

Occupations National Median Salary Earth Sciences-Related Jobs

Natural Sciences Managers $ 157,740 Geological Manager
Occupation: Natural Sciences Managers National Median Salary: $ 157,740 Earth Sciences-Related Jobs: Geological Manager
Engineering Teachers, Postsecondary $ 106,910 Geological Engineering Teacher
Occupation: Engineering Teachers, Postsecondary National Median Salary: $ 106,910 Earth Sciences-Related Jobs: Geological Engineering Teacher
Atmospheric, Earth, Marine, and Space Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary $ 100,690 Geological Science Teacher; Geology Professor; Geology Teacher; Hydrometeorology Teacher; Meteorology Faculty Member; Meteorology Professor; Meteorology Teacher; Oceanography Professor; Oceanography Teacher
Occupation: Atmospheric, Earth, Marine, and Space Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary National Median Salary: $ 100,690 Earth Sciences-Related Jobs: Geological Science Teacher; Geology Professor; Geology Teacher; Hydrometeorology Teacher; Meteorology Faculty Member; Meteorology Professor; Meteorology Teacher; Oceanography Professor; Oceanography Teacher
Mining and Geological Engineers, Including Mining Safety Engineers $ 100,640 Geological Engineer
Occupation: Mining and Geological Engineers, Including Mining Safety Engineers National Median Salary: $ 100,640 Earth Sciences-Related Jobs: Geological Engineer
Atmospheric and Space Scientists $ 92,860 Broadcast Meteorologist; Computer Meteorologist; Hydrometeorological Technician (Hydrometeorological Tech); Hydrometeorologist; Marine Meteorologist; Meteorological Engineer; Meteorological Technician (Meteorological Tech); Meteorologist; Morning Meteorologist; Oceanographic Meteorologist; Operational Meteorologist; Physical Meteorologist; Research Meteorologist; Synoptic Meteorologist; Warning Coordination Meteorologist
Occupation: Atmospheric and Space Scientists National Median Salary: $ 92,860 Earth Sciences-Related Jobs: Broadcast Meteorologist; Computer Meteorologist; Hydrometeorological Technician (Hydrometeorological Tech); Hydrometeorologist; Marine Meteorologist; Meteorological Engineer; Meteorological Technician (Meteorological Tech); Meteorologist; Morning Meteorologist; Oceanographic Meteorologist; Operational Meteorologist; Physical Meteorologist; Research Meteorologist; Synoptic Meteorologist; Warning Coordination Meteorologist
Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers $ 92,580 Consultant Geologist; Development Geologist; Engineering Geologist; Environmental Geologist; Environmental Protection Geologist; Exploration Geologist; Field Geologist; Geological Scout; Geological Specialist; Geologist; Marine Geologist; Mine Geologist; Mining Production Geologist; Oceanographer; Operations Geologist; Petroleum Geologist; Project Geologist; Research Geologist; Spectral Geologist; Wellsite Geologist
Occupation: Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers National Median Salary: $ 92,580 Earth Sciences-Related Jobs: Consultant Geologist; Development Geologist; Engineering Geologist; Environmental Geologist; Environmental Protection Geologist; Exploration Geologist; Field Geologist; Geological Scout; Geological Specialist; Geologist; Marine Geologist; Mine Geologist; Mining Production Geologist; Oceanographer; Operations Geologist; Petroleum Geologist; Project Geologist; Research Geologist; Spectral Geologist; Wellsite Geologist
Hydrologists $ 88,770 Hydrogeologist; Project Hydrogeologist
Occupation: Hydrologists National Median Salary: $ 88,770 Earth Sciences-Related Jobs: Hydrogeologist; Project Hydrogeologist
Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment $ 66,680 Meteorological Equipment Repairer
Occupation: Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment National Median Salary: $ 66,680 Earth Sciences-Related Jobs: Meteorological Equipment Repairer
Architectural and Civil Drafters $ 61,820 Geological Drafter
Occupation: Architectural and Civil Drafters National Median Salary: $ 61,820 Earth Sciences-Related Jobs: Geological Drafter
Remote Sensing Technicians $ 58,350 Meteorologist Liaison
Occupation: Remote Sensing Technicians National Median Salary: $ 58,350 Earth Sciences-Related Jobs: Meteorologist Liaison
News Analysts, Reporters, and Journalists $ 57,500 Broadcast Meteorologist
Occupation: News Analysts, Reporters, and Journalists National Median Salary: $ 57,500 Earth Sciences-Related Jobs: Broadcast Meteorologist
Geological Technicians, Except Hydrologic Technicians $ 52,440 Geological Aide; Geological E-Logger; Geological Sample Tester; Geological Technician; Geologist; Geology Associate; Geology Technician
Occupation: Geological Technicians, Except Hydrologic Technicians National Median Salary: $ 52,440 Earth Sciences-Related Jobs: Geological Aide; Geological E-Logger; Geological Sample Tester; Geological Technician; Geologist; Geology Associate; Geology Technician

12 Earth Sciences careers are listed (sorted by Education/Preparation Requirements - descending) to provide career ladders. Earth Sciences-related jobs specific to each career are also provided.

Education/Preparation Categories:
5 = Usually requires graduate school (e.g., Master's degree, Ph.D., M.D., or J.D.)
4 = Usually requires a four-year Bachelor's degree
3 = Usually requires vocational training, related on-the-job experience, or Associate's degree
2 = Usually requires a high school diploma or GED, but not always
Please Scroll and Select below:
Occupations Education/Preparation Earth Sciences-Related Jobs

Atmospheric, Earth, Marine, and Space Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary 5 Geological Science Teacher; Geology Professor; Geology Teacher; Hydrometeorology Teacher; Meteorology Faculty Member; Meteorology Professor; Meteorology Teacher; Oceanography Professor; Oceanography Teacher
Occupation: Atmospheric, Earth, Marine, and Space Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary Education/Preparation: 5 Earth Sciences-Related Jobs: Geological Science Teacher; Geology Professor; Geology Teacher; Hydrometeorology Teacher; Meteorology Faculty Member; Meteorology Professor; Meteorology Teacher; Oceanography Professor; Oceanography Teacher
Engineering Teachers, Postsecondary 5 Geological Engineering Teacher
Occupation: Engineering Teachers, Postsecondary Education/Preparation: 5 Earth Sciences-Related Jobs: Geological Engineering Teacher
Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers 5 Consultant Geologist; Development Geologist; Engineering Geologist; Environmental Geologist; Environmental Protection Geologist; Exploration Geologist; Field Geologist; Geological Scout; Geological Specialist; Geologist; Marine Geologist; Mine Geologist; Mining Production Geologist; Oceanographer; Operations Geologist; Petroleum Geologist; Project Geologist; Research Geologist; Spectral Geologist; Wellsite Geologist
Occupation: Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers Education/Preparation: 5 Earth Sciences-Related Jobs: Consultant Geologist; Development Geologist; Engineering Geologist; Environmental Geologist; Environmental Protection Geologist; Exploration Geologist; Field Geologist; Geological Scout; Geological Specialist; Geologist; Marine Geologist; Mine Geologist; Mining Production Geologist; Oceanographer; Operations Geologist; Petroleum Geologist; Project Geologist; Research Geologist; Spectral Geologist; Wellsite Geologist
Hydrologists 5 Hydrogeologist; Project Hydrogeologist
Occupation: Hydrologists Education/Preparation: 5 Earth Sciences-Related Jobs: Hydrogeologist; Project Hydrogeologist
Natural Sciences Managers 5 Geological Manager
Occupation: Natural Sciences Managers Education/Preparation: 5 Earth Sciences-Related Jobs: Geological Manager
Atmospheric and Space Scientists 4 Broadcast Meteorologist; Computer Meteorologist; Hydrometeorological Technician (Hydrometeorological Tech); Hydrometeorologist; Marine Meteorologist; Meteorological Engineer; Meteorological Technician (Meteorological Tech); Meteorologist; Morning Meteorologist; Oceanographic Meteorologist; Operational Meteorologist; Physical Meteorologist; Research Meteorologist; Synoptic Meteorologist; Warning Coordination Meteorologist
Occupation: Atmospheric and Space Scientists Education/Preparation: 4 Earth Sciences-Related Jobs: Broadcast Meteorologist; Computer Meteorologist; Hydrometeorological Technician (Hydrometeorological Tech); Hydrometeorologist; Marine Meteorologist; Meteorological Engineer; Meteorological Technician (Meteorological Tech); Meteorologist; Morning Meteorologist; Oceanographic Meteorologist; Operational Meteorologist; Physical Meteorologist; Research Meteorologist; Synoptic Meteorologist; Warning Coordination Meteorologist
Geological Technicians, Except Hydrologic Technicians 4 Geological Aide; Geological E-Logger; Geological Sample Tester; Geological Technician; Geologist; Geology Associate; Geology Technician
Occupation: Geological Technicians, Except Hydrologic Technicians Education/Preparation: 4 Earth Sciences-Related Jobs: Geological Aide; Geological E-Logger; Geological Sample Tester; Geological Technician; Geologist; Geology Associate; Geology Technician
Mining and Geological Engineers, Including Mining Safety Engineers 4 Geological Engineer
Occupation: Mining and Geological Engineers, Including Mining Safety Engineers Education/Preparation: 4 Earth Sciences-Related Jobs: Geological Engineer
News Analysts, Reporters, and Journalists 4 Broadcast Meteorologist
Occupation: News Analysts, Reporters, and Journalists Education/Preparation: 4 Earth Sciences-Related Jobs: Broadcast Meteorologist
Remote Sensing Technicians 4 Meteorologist Liaison
Occupation: Remote Sensing Technicians Education/Preparation: 4 Earth Sciences-Related Jobs: Meteorologist Liaison
Architectural and Civil Drafters 3 Geological Drafter
Occupation: Architectural and Civil Drafters Education/Preparation: 3 Earth Sciences-Related Jobs: Geological Drafter
Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment 3 Meteorological Equipment Repairer
Occupation: Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment Education/Preparation: 3 Earth Sciences-Related Jobs: Meteorological Equipment Repairer

Scroll through the picklist (below). There are 59 specific Earth Sciences job titles listed. Select those that may be of interest - you will get active job listing links, along with detailed resources to help you prepare for a career related to that job.
You can use this form two ways:

hidden filler

Filter - As you enter a keyword, you will filter (limit) the list of job titles below

Browse the list (Don't Filter) - You can simply explore the list of job titles. There may be many that you might never have considered to be of interest.

Enter a Keyword (filter the list below)
OR - leave blank and scroll through the choices:



Select a Job Title (Scroll and Select) :

Step 2 of 4: Find a Job

Find Job Listings: Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers.


Search results will open in a new tab.

Note: Job search results work best for U.S.-based locations. For international searches, try searching for "[job title] in [city, country]" directly on the selected job board, or visit their country-specific website.

Step 3 of 4: Prepare For a Career





Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers

Description: Study the composition, structure, and other physical aspects of the Earth. May use geological, physics, and mathematics knowledge in exploration for oil, gas, minerals, or underground water; or in waste disposal, land reclamation, or other environmental problems. May study the Earth's internal composition, atmospheres, and oceans, and its magnetic, electrical, and gravitational forces. Includes mineralogists, paleontologists, stratigraphers, geodesists, and seismologists.

U.S. Total Employment (2023):
29,000
U.S. Total Employment (2033 est.):
31,000
Employment Change (2023-2033 est.):
2,000 (7%)
Average Annual Job Openings (2023-2033 est.):
3,100
Please click on a section below to expand and see detailed occupational information related to "Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers":

Core Duties

Important Core Job Duties (in order of importance)
For the Top 5 most important - How can you build experience and skill doing these? This will help now, to begin preparing for this type of occupation.
Importance (%) Description
Importance: 100 (%) Description: Communicate geological findings by writing research papers, participating in conferences, or teaching geological science at universities.
Importance: 97 (%) Description: Analyze and interpret geological data, using computer software.
Importance: 97 (%) Description: Analyze and interpret geological, geochemical, or geophysical information from sources, such as survey data, well logs, bore holes, or aerial photos.
Importance: 94 (%) Description: Plan or conduct geological, geochemical, or geophysical field studies or surveys, sample collection, or drilling and testing programs used to collect data for research or application.
Importance: 94 (%) Description: Locate and review research articles or environmental, historical, or technical reports.
Importance: 91 (%) Description: Investigate the composition, structure, or history of the Earth's crust through the collection, examination, measurement, or classification of soils, minerals, rocks, or fossil remains.
Importance: 78 (%) Description: Review environmental, historical, or technical reports and publications for accuracy.
Importance: 78 (%) Description: Prepare geological maps, cross-sectional diagrams, charts, or reports concerning mineral extraction, land use, or resource management, using results of fieldwork or laboratory research.
Importance: 75 (%) Description: Locate and estimate probable natural gas, oil, or mineral ore deposits or underground water resources, using aerial photographs, charts, or research or survey results.
Importance: 74 (%) Description: Conduct geological or geophysical studies to provide information for use in regional development, site selection, or development of public works projects.
Importance: 72 (%) Description: Identify risks for natural disasters, such as mudslides, earthquakes, or volcanic eruptions.
Importance: 69 (%) Description: Measure characteristics of the Earth, such as gravity or magnetic fields, using equipment such as seismographs, gravimeters, torsion balances, or magnetometers.
Importance: 68 (%) Description: Advise construction firms or government agencies on dam or road construction, foundation design, land use, or resource management.
Supplemental Duties
Important Supplemental Job Duties (in order of importance)
For the Top 5 most important - How can you build experience and skill doing these? This will help now, to begin preparing for this type of occupation.
Importance (%) Description
Importance: 59 (%) Description: Develop applied software for the analysis and interpretation of geological data.
Importance: 59 (%) Description: Develop strategies for more environmentally friendly resource extraction and reclamation.
Importance: 56 (%) Description: Locate potential sources of geothermal energy.
Importance: 56 (%) Description: Identify deposits of construction materials suitable for use as concrete aggregates, road fill, or other applications.
Importance: 56 (%) Description: Study historical climate change indicators found in locations, such as ice sheets or rock formations to develop climate change models.
Importance: 56 (%) Description: Test industrial diamonds or abrasives, soil, or rocks to determine their geological characteristics, using optical, x-ray, heat, acid, or precision instruments.
Importance: 56 (%) Description: Assess ground or surface water movement to provide advice on issues, such as waste management, route and site selection, or the restoration of contaminated sites.
Importance: 50 (%) Description: Review work plans to determine the effectiveness of activities for mitigating soil or groundwater contamination.
Importance: 47 (%) Description: Identify possible sites for carbon sequestration projects.
Importance: 42 (%) Description: Determine ways to mitigate the negative consequences of mineral dust dispersion.
Importance: 41 (%) Description: Design geological mine maps, monitor mine structural integrity, or advise and monitor mining crews.
Importance: 41 (%) Description: Provide advice on the safe siting of new nuclear reactor projects or methods of nuclear waste management.
Importance: 39 (%) Description: Collaborate with medical or health researchers to address health problems related to geological materials or processes.
Importance: 39 (%) Description: Research geomechanical or geochemical processes to be used in carbon sequestration projects.
Importance: 38 (%) Description: Identify new sources of platinum group elements for industrial applications, such as automotive fuel cells or pollution abatement systems.
Importance: 34 (%) Description: Determine methods to incorporate geomethane or methane hydrates into global energy production or evaluate the potential environmental impacts of such incorporation.
Importance: 31 (%) Description: Research ways to reduce the ecological footprint of increasingly prevalent megacities.
Importance: 31 (%) Description: Develop ways to capture or use gases burned off as waste during oil production processes.
Importance: 28 (%) Description: Inspect construction projects to analyze engineering problems, using test equipment or drilling machinery.
Work Activities

Important General Work Activities (in order of importance)
For the Top 5 most important - How can you build experience and skill doing these? This will help now, to begin preparing for this type of occupation.
Importance (%) Description
Importance: 94 (%) Description: Getting Information: Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
Importance: 94 (%) Description: Analyzing Data or Information: Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
Importance: 89 (%) Description: Working with Computers: Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
Importance: 88 (%) Description: Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates: Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
Importance: 88 (%) Description: Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events: Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
Importance: 87 (%) Description: Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge: Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
Importance: 86 (%) Description: Processing Information: Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
Importance: 85 (%) Description: Thinking Creatively: Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
Importance: 84 (%) Description: Making Decisions and Solving Problems: Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
Importance: 81 (%) Description: Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others: Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
Importance: 81 (%) Description: Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work: Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
Importance: 81 (%) Description: Documenting/Recording Information: Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
Importance: 80 (%) Description: Communicating with People Outside the Organization: Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.
Importance: 78 (%) Description: Training and Teaching Others: Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.
Importance: 78 (%) Description: Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships: Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
Importance: 74 (%) Description: Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings: Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
Importance: 72 (%) Description: Developing Objectives and Strategies: Establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to achieve them.
Importance: 72 (%) Description: Providing Consultation and Advice to Others: Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems-, or process-related topics.
Importance: 69 (%) Description: Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others: Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
Importance: 68 (%) Description: Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information: Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity.
Importance: 66 (%) Description: Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates: Providing guidance and direction to subordinates, including setting performance standards and monitoring performance.
Importance: 66 (%) Description: Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards: Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
Importance: 65 (%) Description: Scheduling Work and Activities: Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
Importance: 65 (%) Description: Coaching and Developing Others: Identifying the developmental needs of others and coaching, mentoring, or otherwise helping others to improve their knowledge or skills.
Importance: 65 (%) Description: Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People: Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.
Importance: 64 (%) Description: Developing and Building Teams: Encouraging and building mutual trust, respect, and cooperation among team members.
Specific Work Activities

Important Specific Work Activities
How can you begin to build experience and skill doing these? This will help now, to begin preparing for this type of occupation. Specific Work Activities appear below:
Advise others about environmental management or conservation.
Advise others on management of emergencies or hazardous situations or materials.
Analyze environmental data.
Analyze geological or geographical data.
Analyze geological samples.
Collect data about project sites.
Communicate results of environmental research.
Conduct research to gain information about products or processes.
Coordinate cross-disciplinary research programs.
Design research studies to obtain scientific information.
Determine methods to minimize environmental impact of activities.
Develop plans to manage natural or renewable resources.
Develop software or applications for scientific or technical use.
Develop sustainable industrial or development methods.
Inspect facilities or sites to determine if they meet specifications or standards.
Inspect work sites to identify potential environmental or safety hazards.
Instruct college students in physical or life sciences.
Interpret research or operational data.
Locate natural resources using geospatial or other environmental data.
Measure environmental characteristics.
Monitor construction operations.
Prepare maps.
Prepare scientific or technical reports or presentations.
Proofread documents, records, or other files to ensure accuracy.
Research geological features or processes.
Research hydrologic features or processes.
Research impacts of environmental conservation initiatives.
Review plans or proposals for environmental conservation.
Review professional literature to maintain professional knowledge.
Knowledge Required

Knowledge Required (in order of importance)
For the Top 5 most important - How can you build experience and skill doing these? This will help now, to begin preparing for this type of occupation.
Importance (%) Description
Importance: 78 (%) Description: Geography: Knowledge of principles and methods for describing the features of land, sea, and air masses, including their physical characteristics, locations, interrelationships, and distribution of plant, animal, and human life.
Importance: 75 (%) Description: Mathematics: Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.
Importance: 75 (%) Description: English Language: Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, and rules of composition and grammar.
Importance: 74 (%) Description: Chemistry: Knowledge of the chemical composition, structure, and properties of substances and of the chemical processes and transformations that they undergo. This includes uses of chemicals and their interactions, danger signs, production techniques, and disposal methods.
Importance: 72 (%) Description: Physics: Knowledge and prediction of physical principles, laws, their interrelationships, and applications to understanding fluid, material, and atmospheric dynamics, and mechanical, electrical, atomic and sub-atomic structures and processes.
Importance: 70 (%) Description: Computers and Electronics: Knowledge of circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software, including applications and programming.
Importance: 63 (%) Description: Engineering and Technology: Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.
Importance: 63 (%) Description: Education and Training: Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects.
Essential Skills

Essential Skills (in order of importance)
These are the foundational skills most central to success in this occupation. For the Top 5 most important, how can you begin building experience and confidence using these skills now?
Importance (%) Description
Importance: 68 (%) Description: Reading Comprehension: Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.
Importance: 66 (%) Description: Speaking: Talking to others to convey information effectively.
Importance: 66 (%) Description: Science: Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
Importance: 66 (%) Description: Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
Importance: 64 (%) Description: Active Listening: Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.
Importance: 64 (%) Description: Writing: Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Importance: 56 (%) Description: Mathematics: Using mathematics to solve problems.
Importance: 54 (%) Description: Active Learning: Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
Importance: 52 (%) Description: Learning Strategies: Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.
Importance: 52 (%) Description: Monitoring: Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
Transferable Skills

Transferable Skills (in order of importance)
These are skills that can transfer across occupations and industries. For the Top 5 most important, how can you strengthen these skills now so they support both this career and future career flexibility?
Importance (%) Description
Importance: 64 (%) Description: Complex Problem Solving: Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
Importance: 64 (%) Description: Judgment and Decision Making: Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.
Importance: 54 (%) Description: Systems Analysis: Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.
Importance: 54 (%) Description: Systems Evaluation: Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed to improve or correct performance, relative to the goals of the system.
Importance: 52 (%) Description: Coordination: Adjusting actions in relation to others' actions.
Day-in-the-Life Summaries

Day-in-the-Life Summaries
These summaries show the main types of activities you are likely to perform on a regular basis in this occupation. How can you imagine your typical workday — using these examples to see if this type of work fits you?
Activity: Advise others on environmental sustainability or green practices.
Activity: Advise others on workplace health or safety issues.
Activity: Analyze data to improve operations.
Activity: Analyze environmental or geospatial data.
Activity: Communicate environmental or sustainability information.
Activity: Create visual designs or displays.
Activity: Design computer or information systems or applications.
Activity: Determine operational methods or procedures.
Activity: Develop plans for managing or preserving natural resources.
Activity: Develop research plans or methodologies.
Activity: Develop sustainable organizational or business policies or practices.
Activity: Direct scientific or technical activities.
Activity: Examine materials or documentation for accuracy or compliance.
Activity: Gather data about operational or development activities.
Activity: Inspect facilities or equipment.
Activity: Investigate the environmental impact of industrial or development activities.
Activity: Maintain current knowledge in area of expertise.
Activity: Monitor environmental conditions.
Activity: Monitor operations to ensure adequate performance.
Activity: Present research or technical information.
Activity: Research issues related to earth sciences.
Activity: Research technology designs or applications.
Activity: Teach academic or vocational subjects.
Software Skills

Software Skills
These are examples of software tools commonly used in this occupation, organized from most to least important for your career preparation. How can you start learning or practicing the highest-priority tools so that you feel confident using them on the job?
High-Priority Tech Skills
Computer aided design CAD software:
Autodesk AutoCAD
Electronic mail software:
Microsoft Outlook
File versioning software:
Git
Geographic information system:
ESRI ArcGIS software
Object or component oriented development software:
Python
Office suite software:
Microsoft Office software
Presentation software:
Microsoft PowerPoint
Spreadsheet software:
Microsoft Excel
Word processing software:
Microsoft Word
Widely Used Tech Skills
Geographic information system:
Geographic information system GIS systems
Emerging Tech Skills
Analytical or scientific software:
SAS
The MathWorks MATLAB
Data base user interface and query software:
Microsoft Access
MySQL
Document management software:
Adobe Acrobat
Graphics or photo imaging software:
Adobe Photoshop
Project management software:
Microsoft Project
Web platform development software:
Microsoft Active Server Pages ASP
General Software Tools
Analytical or scientific software (scroll table below):
Alara CRystalView
Aquifer test software
Bentley Systems gINT
Bilko
ChemStat
Clover Technology GALENA
Compass software
CrystalMaker
Data logger software
Data mining software
EarthWorks Downhole Explorer
Earthworks MaxiPit
EasySolve Software SizePerm
Enigma software
EPIC GIS
Field data recorder software
Gemcom GEMS
Gemcom Surpac
Geo-Logic Systems LithoTect Interpreter
GeoModel
Geostatistical modeling GSTAT software
Geostatistics software GS+
Gresens 92
Groundwater modeling system GMS
Groundwater Vistas
Hydrogeology Basin2
HydroSOLVE AQTESOLV
IHS Energy PowerTools
Interpex IXID
IRIS Seismic Processing Workshop
Laboratory information management system LIMS
Landmark Graphics GeoGraphix
Landmark VIP
Maptek Vulcan
MIT OASES
Multivariate statistical program MVSP software
National Geophysical Data Center GEODAS
OriginLab Origin
PaleoMag
Paleontological Statistics PAST
PaleoTax
Parameter Estimation PEST
PolyMap
Red Rock DeltaGraph
RockWare ChemFlux
Rockware CrossLog
RockWare DepthCon2000
RockWare Erupt
RockWare FIRSTPIX
RockWare Geochemist's Workbench GWB
RockWare GeoTrig
RockWare GRADIX
RockWare Grav2Dc
RockWare Jlog
RockWare MicroMODEL
RockWare Plan
RockWare Potent
RockWare QuickSyn
RockWare RockPack III
RockWare VEGO
RockWare Visual STUNT
RockWare WinSism
RSI ENVI
RSI interactive data language IDL software
Scientific Software Group FEFLOW
Scientific Software Group Infinite Extent
Scientific Software Group SVHeat
SeeByte SeeTrack
Seismic interpretation software
Seismic Micro-Technology KINGDOM
Seismic visualization software
Shape software
Socorro Scientific Software Refract2K
Solvcalv
Starpint Software Super Slug
StrainSim
Systat Software SigmaStat
TECHBASE
Triton Elics International SeaClass
Waterloo Hydrogeologic AquaChem
Waterloo Hydrogeologic FlowPath II
Well logging software
Computer aided design CAD software (scroll table below):
Atoll GeoCAD
Evolution Computing EasyCAD
Evolution Computing FastCAD
Midland Valley 3DMove
MineSight
Paradigm SKUA-GOCAD
PowerCAD
Schlumberger Inside Reality
Trimble Terramodel
Upperspace DesignCAD
Upperspace ModelCAD
Data base user interface and query software (scroll table below):
EarthSoft EQuIS Geology
GeoPLUS Petra
Geosoft DAP server
MJ Systems Logsleuth
RockWare Stratbugs
Data conversion software:
BOSS Didger
Document management software:
MHC Document Express
Electronic mail software:
Email software
Geographic information system (scroll table below):
ESRI ArcIMS
ESRI ArcInfo
ESRI ArcView
Geographic information system GIS software
RockWare RockWorks
Graphics or photo imaging software:
ACD Systems Canvas
Map creation software (scroll table below):
ERDAS ER Mapper
Geographic resources analysis support system GRASS
Geomechanical design analysis GDA software
Geosoft Oasis montaj
Geospatial data abstraction library GDAL
Golden Software Surfer
Intergraph ImageStation Stereo Softcopy Kit SSK
Leica Geosystems ERDAS IMAGINE
MapInfo Professional
Mapping software
MICRODEM
MineGeo software
SACLANTCEN
Terrain surface mapping software
Office suite software:
OpenOffice.org
Preparation Required
Preparation Required - How much preparation is needed to obtain this type of job?
Job Zone Five: Extensive Preparation Needed

Extensive skill, knowledge, and experience are needed for these occupations. Many require more than five years of experience. For example, surgeons must complete four years of college and an additional five to seven years of specialized medical training to be able to do their job.

Most of these occupations require graduate school. For example, they may require a master's degree, and some require a Ph.D., M.D., or J.D. (law degree).

Employees may need some on-the-job training, but most of these occupations assume that the person will already have the required skills, knowledge, work-related experience, and/or training.

These occupations often involve coordinating, training, supervising, or managing the activities of others to accomplish goals. Very advanced communication and organizational skills are required. Examples include pharmacists, lawyers, astronomers, biologists, clergy, physician assistants, and veterinarians.
Education Required

Education Required - by frequency of educational attainment
This shows you details about the level of education most commonly held by workers in this occupation. How can you begin planning the educational pathway that will prepare you best for this type of work?
Frequency of Attainment (%) Level of Education
Frequency of Attainment: 43.8 (%) Level of Education: Master's Degree
Frequency of Attainment: 37.5 (%) Level of Education: Bachelor's Degree
Frequency of Attainment: 9.4 (%) Level of Education: Doctoral Degree
Frequency of Attainment: 6.3 (%) Level of Education: Post-Doctoral Training
Frequency of Attainment: 3.1 (%) Level of Education: Post-Baccalaureate Certificate - awarded for completion of an organized program of study; designed for people who have completed a Baccalaureate degree but do not meet the requirements of academic degrees carrying the title of Master.
Training and Experience Required

Training and Experience Required - by frequency of training and work experience attainment
This section shows you how often different types of training and work experience are required for this occupation. How can you start gaining the kinds of experience and training that are most common for this type of work?
Frequency of Attainment (%) Level of Training and Work Experience
Frequency of Attainment: 21.9 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 6 months, up to and including 1 year
Frequency of Attainment: 18.8 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: None
Frequency of Attainment: 15.6 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 1 year, up to and including 2 years
Frequency of Attainment: 15.6 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 2 years, up to and including 4 years
Frequency of Attainment: 6.3 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 1 month, up to and including 3 months
Frequency of Attainment: 6.3 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 3 months, up to and including 6 months
Frequency of Attainment: 6.3 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 4 years, up to and including 6 years
Frequency of Attainment: 6.3 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 10 years
Frequency of Attainment: 3.1 (%) Level of Training and Work Experience: Over 6 years, up to and including 8 years
Certifications
Certifications
These are examples of certifications that may be important for this occupation. How can you begin exploring which certifications fit your goals and what steps you would need to take to earn them?
Certified Coal Geologist External Link
Certified Petroleum Geologist External Link
Certified Petroleum Geophysicist External Link
Enterprise Administration Professional 2201 External Link
Related Careers to Consider
Related Careers to Consider
This lists up to 20 careers that might be of interest to you (related to what "Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers" do, what they know, and what they're called), ranked by best fit. How do these related occupations align with your interests, skills, and goals?
1 - Hydrologists
2 - Industrial Ecologists
3 - Conservation Scientists
4 - Soil and Plant Scientists
5 - Geographers
6 - Mining and Geological Engineers, Including Mining Safety Engineers
7 - Biologists
8 - Data Scientists
9 - Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health
10 - Atmospheric and Space Scientists
11 - Geological Technicians, Except Hydrologic Technicians
12 - Hydrologic Technicians
13 - Geodetic Surveyors
14 - Surveying and Mapping Technicians
15 - Petroleum Engineers
16 - Environmental Restoration Planners
17 - Environmental Science and Protection Technicians, Including Health
18 - Water Resource Specialists
19 - Surveyors
20 - Astronomers


Step 4 of 4: Career-Specific Resources

This section contains detailed external resources appropriate to "Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers". Explore these resources to start learning more. Links are constantly updated, so bookmark this page.

Videos

Here is a listing of videos related to this career. A great way to get a quick overview of the occupation.


Resumes

Here are resources that allow you to see example resumes for this occupation. It may be helpful to see examples from others who have this type of experience.


Job Description

Here are resources that provide job descriptions, which are vital for resume and interview preparation.


Interviews

There are many great resources that can help guide you through the interview process. These links provide help in preparing and performing an effective interview, specific to this occupation.


Salary Data

Here are links to help you identify salary ranges for this occupation. These data are necessary prior to effective salary negotiations.


Raises

Here are resources that help you to prepare to ask for a raise. These links will help you to prepare for the salary negotiation process.


Jobs

Here are resources that lead to links for actual jobs related to "Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers". Use these links to find a job.


Jobs

Here are resources that lead to links for actual jobs related to "Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers". Use these links to find a job.


Classifieds

There are various sources for job classified ads. These links should help get you started to find a job for this occupation.


Step-by-Step

Here are links to help guide you, step-by-step, to become a(n): Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers


Career Change

Here are resources to help you prepare for a career change. It is helpful to look carefully at the information provided in Section 3: Career Change (detailed previously on this page) prior to using these links. There is much to learn ...


LinkedIn®

Here are links to various posts and groups from LinkedIn ® that relate to this occupation. Great way to start building professional contacts in the field that might be most appropriate for you.


Career Path

Here are links to various resources to help you explore the career path related to the "Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers" occupation.






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