Geologist
Job Snapshot |
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| Location: | Worldwide |
| Employee Type: | Full-Time |
| Industry: | Coal, Geothermal, Petroleum |
| Manages Others: | No |
| Job Type: | Earth Science |
| Education: | Bachelor’s degree in geology (minimum) |
| Travel: | Yes: work is split between the field, lab and office |
Summary
Geologists study the structure and history of the Earth by examining rocks, soil, fossils, mountains, and earthquakes. They identify and examine rocks, study information collected by remote sensing instruments in satellites, conduct geological surveys, construct field maps, analyze information collected through seismic studies, and use instruments to measure the earth’s gravity and magnetic field.They work in a variety of settings which include: natural resource companies, environmental consulting companies, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and universities. Geologists often work in conjunction with engineers, who use geologists’ interpretations to aid in design and construction of safe structures, pipelines, and buildings.
In the office, geologists consolidate field and laboratory data and prepare reports that include maps and diagrams to illustrate the results of their findings. Such maps may pinpoint the possible occurrence of ores, coal, oil, natural gas, or water resources.
In the petroleum industry, geologists search for oil and gas by studying rock formations and using microscopes to examine rocks fragments (cuttings) from wells that are being drilled. They develop surface and subsurface maps to locate the resources. Geologists locate rock layers cropping out on the surface of the ground and use data from existing wells to make subsurface maps of the reservoir rocks. By matching rock layers between wells, they can draw cross sections to find petroleum traps.
Education
Pre-college students who are interested in becoming a geologist should take college preparatory courses in earth science, biology, chemistry, physics and math. Courses related to writing, environmental science, computers, geography and mapping are also valuable.
Scholarships
Geology Scholarships and Grants - AEG for Students
