CAREER

Geological Technicians, Except Hydrologic Technicians

Overview

Salary Median (2020)

$50,630

Projected Job Growth (2019-2029)

+5.5% (as fast as the average)

Career

What Geological Technicians, Except Hydrologic Technicians Do

Assist scientists or engineers in the use of electronic, sonic, or nuclear measuring instruments in laboratory, exploration, and production activities to obtain data indicating resources such as metallic ore, minerals, gas, coal, or petroleum. Analyze mud and drill cuttings. Chart pressure, temperature, and other characteristics of wells or bore holes.

Other Job Titles Geological Technicians, Except Hydrologic Technicians May Have

Core Inspector, Environmental Field Services Technician, Environmental Sampling Technician, Geological E-Logger, Geological Technician, Geoscience Technician, Geotechnician, Materials Technician, Physical Science Technician, Soils Technician

How Leaders Describe a Typical Day at Work

Chief Field Engineer ,

U.S. Geological Survey's Hawaiian Volcano Observatory (HVO)

As the chief field engineer, my day consists of making sure that all 240 remote sites are well maintained, running efficiently, and that data is coming in for scientists to analyze. Some sites are only accessible via helicopter, so sometimes travel to work can be interesting.


Tasks & Responsibilities May Include

  • Test and analyze samples to determine their content and characteristics, using laboratory apparatus or testing equipment.
  • Collect or prepare solid or fluid samples for analysis.
  • Compile, log, or record testing or operational data for review and further analysis.
  • Prepare notes, sketches, geological maps, or cross-sections.
  • Participate in geological, geophysical, geochemical, hydrographic, or oceanographic surveys, prospecting field trips, exploratory drilling, well logging, or underground mine survey programs.

This page includes information from theO*NET 26.1 Databaseby the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under theCC BY 4.0license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.