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Geologist

Also known as Geoscientist.

Geologists study the nature, composition and structure of the earth to locate materials and minerals, and to increase scientific knowledge.

They also advise on the extraction of minerals, as well as on environmental protection, the rehabilitation of land after mining and on civil engineering projects.

Geologists work in laboratories, offices and in the field.

They may work independently or as members of a mixed team of professional and non-professional staff.

They may have contact with the public, especially if needing permission to go onto private land.

Fieldwork can involve spending time in remote desert, tropical or Antarctic/Arctic regions.

The hours of work can be irregular and it may be necessary to spend long periods away from home.

TASKS

Geologists may perform the following tasks:

explore specific areas of the earth to determine its structure and the types of rocks or minerals that are present
study rock cores, cuttings and samples
study geostatistics and sampling theory
study fossilised life forms and date rock strata
study the nature and effects of natural events such as erosion, sedimentation, glaciation, earthquakes and volcanic hazards
locate and manage groundwater resources, investigate groundwater contamination and land salinity
undertake geochemical sampling of stream sediment and soils
undertake ground or airborne magnetic, gravity and other geophysical surveys
examine geological specimens in laboratories using optical and electron microscopes, X-ray diffraction and other electronic, chemical and mechanical techniques
advise on determining the economic viability of extracting earth resources
advise on the geological suitability of sites for structures such as tunnels, roads, coastal installations, bridges and water supply schemes
contribute information about land use, planning and rehabilitation, and the effects of pollution on seabeds to environmental assessments
use computers to integrate and interpret data sets of geological information
prepare geological models to describe processes and predict future situations
prepare geological reports and maps

PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS

enjoy technical and scientific activities
willing to adhere to safety requirements
able to work independently or as part of a team
able to prepare accurate records and reports
able to cope with the physical demands of the job
prepared to work outdoors in a range of environments and on irregular schedules

Interest Area

SPECIALISATIONS

Database Geologist - maintains and updates the database of drilling and assay results acquired during exploration and mining. This involves receiving incoming new data, uploading it, and constantly ensuring that data is correct and up to date.

Engineering Geologist - works with engineers to carry out detailed geological mapping before major construction work, assesses the qualities of building stone and quarry rocks used for building and road construction, and assesses geological structures for open-cut and underground mine stability and safety, and foundations for building.

Environmental Geologist - studies the nature of ground and surface waters, soil movement, erosion and degradation, salinisation and coastal erosion; the effects of pollution and human activity on rivers and seas; and the environmental effects of mining, nuclear energy and waste disposal.

Field/Exploration Geologist - carries out surveys to determine the geological structure, distribution and age of rocks and investigate where particular natural resources are likely to be found.

Geochemist/Mineralogist/Petrologist - studies the mineral and chemical composition of rocks using equipment such as optical and electron microscopes, X-ray diffraction, atomic absorption and mass spectrometry. They may also be involved in examining the transport of pollutants through rock masses.

Geomorphologist - studies the evolution and age of landforms and land surfaces.

Hydrogeologist - evaluates and manages the quality, quantity, reliability and sustainability of all aspects of water resources. They are concerned with groundwater and the soil-moisture variation, amount, speed and direction of groundwater flow, extraction and replenishment of groundwater, and water chemistry and pollution.

Mathematical Geologist - models the outcome of geological processes by devising and applying the most appropriate data and computer models.

Mine Site Geologist - monitors and controls the grade (or quality) of the ore mined. They also advise on assessments of the areas of an ore body that should be mined at a particular time, and on defining the ore limits at the mine based on economic considerations.

Palaeontologist - examines, classifies and describes animal and plant fossils found in sedimentary rocks. Understanding the evolutionary order of the fossil record is particularly important in oil exploration.

Petroleum Geologist - explores and charts stratigraphic arrangement, composition and the structure of the Earth's surface layers to locate petroleum and natural gas. They estimate the size and distribution of reserves using seismic and geological survey evidence and recommend the most appropriate drilling and production methods.

Stratigrapher - deals with the order in which sedimentary rock strata have been deposited, their age and the processes by which they were formed.

Structural Geologist - studies rock structures in field mapping and in laboratory studies to reveal the history of folding and faulting, and how these structures can influence mine engineering and building foundations. They also conduct studies in water flow in aquifers.

EDUCATION & TRAINING

To become a geologist you usually have to complete a degree in science or applied science with a major in geology, geoscience, applied geology, geophysics or earth sciences. To get into these courses you usually need to gain your HSC/ACT Year 12. Prerequisite subjects, or assumed knowledge, in one or more of English, mathematics, chemistry, earth and environmental science, physics and biology are normally required. Most universities in Australia offer degrees in these areas.

Universities have different prerequisites and some have flexible entry requirements. Contact the universities you are interested in for more information as requirements may change.

Additional Information

Formal training is followed by continuous vocational training throughout your working life to enhance skills in business, computing, management and technical knowledge.

Graduates may be eligible, after a qualifying period, for membership of the Geological Society of Australia, Australian Institute of Geoscientists and/or the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Geologists work for mining and petroleum companies involved in the exploration, extraction and production of minerals and hydrocarbons; geological, engineering and environmental consultancy firms; geological survey organisations; and state, territory and federal government departments.

Employment opportunities also exist in the securities industry and financial sector where geologists are employed as industry analysts and/or advise on the economic viability of particular mining projects.

Geologists may progress to exploration managers and company managers or directors. They are highly mobile, both within Australia and internationally. There are some opportunities for self-employment.