Geology is a fascinating field of study, but it doesn’t offer many entry-level jobs. If you have an interest in geology, here are some job options for you to consider:
Geophysical Technician
A geophysical technician spends most of their time in the field, taking measurements to help geologists study the earth’s interior. This job requires a bachelor’s degree with a focus on physical sciences and math. You may also need to complete an internship before being hired by a company.
Environmental Scientist
An environmental scientist studies how human activity affects the environment and what can be done to mitigate those effects. They may work for government agencies or private companies that deal with natural resources like water or landfills. Environmental scientists typically need a bachelor’s degree in environmental science or biology with an emphasis on soil science and chemistry. Many states require them to pass exams as part of licensure requirements as well; however, some states allow people who have worked as environmental scientists for several years without passing these exams to apply for certification through alternative pathways such as professional experience or education programs designed specifically for this purpose
Geology Entry Level Jobs
Geologists study the materials, processes, and history of the Earth. They investigate how rocks were formed and what has happened to them since their formation. There are subgroups of geologists as well, such as stratigraphers, who study stratified rock, and mineralogists, who study the structure and composition of minerals.
Education Required
Geoscientists typically need at least a bachelors degree for most entry-level positions. A geosciences degree is generally preferred by employers, although some geoscientists begin their careers with degrees in environmental science or engineering. Some geoscientist jobs require a masters degree.
Job Outlook
The projected percent change in employment from 2016 to 2026: 14% (Faster than average)
(The average growth rate for all occupations is 7 percent.)
Licenses/Certifications
Geologists are licensed in 31 states. Although a license is not required to work as a geologist in many cases, geologists that offer services to the public in these states must be licensed. Public services include activities such as those associated with civil engineering projects, environmental protection, and regulatory compliance. Applicants must meet minimum education and experience requirements and earn a passing score on an exam. All states that license geologists use the National Association of State Boards of Geology (ASBOG), Fundamentals of Geology Exam (FGE).
Median pay: How much do Geoscientists make?
$89,780 Annual Salary
$43.16 per hour
Careers for Geoscientists
Crystallographers
Development geologists
Environmental geologists
Exploration geologists
Geochemists
Geodesists
Geomagnetists
Geophysicists
Mine geologists
Mineralogists
Mining production geologists
Oceanographers
Oceanologists
Paleontologists
Petroleum geologists
Petrologists
Research geologists
Sedimentationists
Seismologists
Stratigraphers
Volcanologists
Similar Careers
Higher Paid
Atmospheric Scientists, Including Meteorologists
Mining and Geological Engineers
Natural Sciences Managers
Petroleum Engineers
Physicists and Astronomers
