CFChooseField
Science

Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers

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.

Visual summary of pay, outlook, skills, interests, and preparation for Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers
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Median pay

$99,240
Median annual pay for Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024
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10-year growth

3.2%
Projected employment growth from 2024 to 2034.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024–2034 projections
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Annual openings

2,000
Projected annual openings, including growth and replacement demand.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024–2034 projections
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Employment

25,100
Estimated U.S. employment for Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers in 2024.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024
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Jobs added or lost

+800
Projected numeric employment change from 2024 to 2034.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024–2034 projections
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Entry preparation

Bachelor's degree
Typical education needed to enter Geoscientists, Except Hydrologists and Geographers.
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · 2024 profile
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O*NET occupation profile

What the work involves

Strongest O*NET signals first.

Essential skills

  1. 1Reading Comprehension
  2. 2Critical Thinking
  3. 3Science
  4. 4Speaking
  5. 5Active Listening
  6. 6Writing

Knowledge areas

  1. 1Geography
  2. 2English Language
  3. 3Mathematics
  4. 4Chemistry
  5. 5Physics
  6. 6Computers and Electronics

Abilities

  1. 1Inductive Reasoning
  2. 2Written Comprehension
  3. 3Category Flexibility
  4. 4Deductive Reasoning
  5. 5Oral Comprehension
  6. 6Oral Expression

Career interests

  1. 1Investigative
  2. 2Realistic
  3. 3Conventional
  4. 4Artistic
  5. 5Social
  6. 6Enterprising

Work styles

  1. 1Intellectual Curiosity
  2. 2Attention to Detail
  3. 3Innovation
  4. 4Dependability
  5. 5Achievement Orientation
  6. 6Tolerance for Ambiguity

Work activities

  1. 1Getting Information
  2. 2Analyzing Data or Information
  3. 3Working with Computers
  4. 4Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates
  5. 5Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events
  6. 6Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge

Work context

  1. 1E-Mail
  2. 2Face-to-Face Discussions with Individuals and Within Teams
  3. 3Freedom to Make Decisions
  4. 4Determine Tasks, Priorities and Goals
  5. 5Telephone Conversations
  6. 6Work With or Contribute to a Work Group or Team

Representative tasks

  • 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.
  • Analyze and interpret geological data, using computer software.
  • 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.
  • Analyze and interpret geological, geochemical, or geophysical information from sources, such as survey data, well logs, bore holes, or aerial photos.
  • Identify risks for natural disasters, such as mudslides, earthquakes, or volcanic eruptions.
  • Prepare geological maps, cross-sectional diagrams, charts, or reports concerning mineral extraction, land use, or resource management, using results of fieldwork or laboratory research.
  • Communicate geological findings by writing research papers, participating in conferences, or teaching geological science at universities.
  • Locate and estimate probable natural gas, oil, or mineral ore deposits or underground water resources, using aerial photographs, charts, or research or survey results.

Software and tools

Microsoft Outlook · in demandESRI ArcGIS software · in demandGit · in demandMicrosoft Word · in demandPython · in demandAutodesk AutoCAD · in demandMicrosoft PowerPoint · in demandMicrosoft Excel · in demandMicrosoft Office software · in demandGeographic information system GIS systems · in demandMicrosoft Active Server Pages ASP · hot technologyMicrosoft Access · hot technology

Sources

BLS provides national pay, employment, and projections. O*NET provides skills, interests, preparation, tasks, work context, and tools.

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