Most students aren’t aware that a geology degree is actually quite versatile and useful. Below introduces five unique careers that students can explore with a degree in geology.
Working in the field offers exciting opportunities for geologist. They are responsible to routinely collect data and samples for analysis. Once this is completed, they must draft technical sections of project updates, reports and communications. Therefore, they also assist in identifying technical issues and offer alternative approaches for evaluations. They must carefully document all project-related activities on paper and in software programs. They will spend the bulk of their time performing site evaluations and reconnaissance.
Sedimentary Lab Technician
Sedimentary lab techs coordinate, perform and document sediment textural examinations. This may involve geochemical sampling and geophysical surveys. This involves a wide range of complex lab analyses and procedures, such as suspended sediment concentration analyses. Sedimentary lab techs often use advanced software programs to determine distribution sizes, perform data entry and create complicated spreadsheets and databases. This is an excellent entry-level position for recent graduates.
The earth itself is one of the most important natural resources. Geologists have the opportunity to work for non-profits and the government as conservationists. Thus, they can directly help companies sustainably harvest and preserve natural resources. Conservation geologists can specialize in oil, underground water and natural gases or metals. For example, they may work for an oil company and help engineers carefully and safely extract oil through fracking.
Engineering consulting firms that specialize in geotechnical design and engineering use field technicians to collect field data that will be used for lab studies and experiments. Field technicians are on-call consultants who regularly visit construction sites to obtain soil and rock samples. They often manage their own schedule and work without supervision. They assist scientists and engineers with materials testing and geotechnical engineering projects.
Many environmental scientists focus on air, soil, water and climate conditions. However, certain environmental scientists are actually geologists. These professionals develop, implement and monitor programs for mining and petroleum companies. They continually assess the impacts of the company’s commercial activities on the earth. Thus, they must also interact with regulatory agencies, conduct environmental studies and performs in-depth geological calculations.
To review, there are many exciting careers awaiting students with a geology degree. Whether you want to work for mining and petroleum companies like Fusion Resources LLC or analyze lab tests, there are a variety of options available. Geologists may work in the field conducting assessments or collecting samples. However, they also work in offices using computers and in labs performing scientific experiments.