Geology
Within Geology jobs you will interpret and forecast volcanic eruptions to better understand and predict the timing and impact of volcanic hazards. Carry out geologic field work on earthquakes to inform active fault studies and use geologic knowledge to evaluate applications to conduct drilling, resource leasing, and minerals exploration on public lands. You may expand to learn, understand, explain and use in depth knowledge of geology and related specialized areas such as minerals management or seismology to identify and analyze problems, and make logical decisions and develop solutions within the field of geology.
Industry Insights
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Estimated employment nationwide in 2024
Projected change in employment through 2034
Mid-career annual salary (nationwide median)
How the work is typically performed
Peak demand and work cadence
Career Pathways & Progression
Position Responsibilities
New graduates assist senior geologists by collecting samples, conducting laboratory analyses and compiling data. They may work as field or lab technicians for environmental firms, mining companies or government agencies.
Job Types & Titles
- Geological technician
- Field assistant
- Lab technician
Qualifications Snapshot
Education
Bachelor’s degree in geology or earth science with coursework in mineralogy, petrology, sedimentology, structural geology and supporting math and sciences.
Certifications
None required; students may sit for the ASBOG Fundamentals of Geology (FG) exam toward future licensure.
Experience
0-2 years of field or laboratory experience.
Position Responsibilities
Technicians support professional geologists by operating field instruments, logging core samples, monitoring drilling programs and preparing technical reports. Many roles are with environmental consulting or exploration companies.
Job Types & Titles
- Geological/Geotechnical technician
- Environmental field technician
- Drilling technician
Qualifications Snapshot
Education
Associate or bachelor’s degree in geoscience or related discipline; specialized training in field instrumentation.
Certifications
Optional certifications in GIS or environmental sampling.
Experience
1-4 years hands‑on field or lab experience.
Position Responsibilities
Professional geologists plan and execute field studies, analyze geologic data, prepare maps and reports and provide technical advice on resource development, environmental remediation and hazard mitigation. Many states require licensure.
Job Types & Titles
- Environmental geologist
- Hydrogeologist
- Engineering geologist
- Petroleum geologist
- Mining geologist
Qualifications Snapshot
Education
Bachelor’s degree in geology; many positions prefer a master’s degree for research or specialized roles.
Certifications
Professional Geologist (PG) license obtained by passing the ASBOG Fundamentals and Practice of Geology exams and meeting experience requirements.
Experience
3-7 years of professional geoscience experience and completion of state licensure requirements.
Position Responsibilities
Managers oversee geologic programs, lead multidisciplinary teams and make strategic decisions for exploration, environmental compliance or research. They may supervise projects, prepare budgets and interact with clients or regulators.
Job Types & Titles
- Senior geologist
- Principal geologist
- Project manager
- Geoscience program leader
Qualifications Snapshot
Education
Master’s or doctoral degree in geology or geoscience; leadership training.
Certifications
Professional Geologist (PG) license and potentially a Certified Professional Geologist (CPG) credential from AIPG.
Experience
7-15 years of progressively responsible geoscience experience including supervisory roles.
Who Hires Geology Professionals?
Explore leading organizations in this field and discover career opportunities.
U.S. Geological Survey (USGS)
Bureau of Land Management (U.S. Department of the Interior)
Association of American State Geologists (AASG)
California Department of Conservation - CalGEM
WSP USA
AECOM
ExxonMobil - Geoscience
Chevron Corporation
Education & Certification
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Jobs in Geology
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