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Science Field Officer

Science field officers perform support functions in the field by making observations, collecting and analysing samples, recording information, and looking after the practical tasks involved in maintaining a remote field operation, or operating a city-based office, laboratory or workshop.

Science field officers may be required to spend long periods working in remote locations throughout Australia and overseas, but may also work in exclusively city-based operations.

They may specialise in a number of different areas, such as agriculture, environment, forestry, geoscience and marine science.

TASKS

Science field officers may perform the following tasks:

order, check, pack and ship equipment and supplies for field surveys
manage or maintain small field camps
mark outlines of ore, waste and drillhole patterns in operating mines
collect, record and transport samples of rock, soil, plants, water or other materials
sort information collected from a range of samples and carry out computer processing of the data
assist with all aspects of supporting personnel in the field
operate and maintain collections and a wide range of equipment (mechanical, electrical, computing)

PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS

enjoy scientific activities
able to prepare accurate records and reports
able to work as part of a team
able to cope with the physical demands of the job
willing to work in remote locations

Interest Area

SPECIALISATIONS

Geoscience Technician - assists earth scientists such as geologists, engineers and geophysicists to find and develop mineral and fuel resources. They make observations, collect and analyse samples, record information and look after the practical tasks involved in servicing remote field operations.

EDUCATION & TRAINING

To become a science field officer you usually have to complete a VOC qualification in science, environmental monitoring and technology, mining/field exploration, mining exploration or a related area. As subjects and prerequisites can vary between institutions, you should contact your chosen institution for further information.

Entry to this occupation may be improved if you complete a degree in science at university. To get into these courses you usually need to gain your HSC/ACT Year 12. Most universities in Australia offer degrees in science.

Universities have different prerequisites and some have flexible entry requirements or offer external study. Contact Open Universities Australia or the universities you are interested in for more information as requirements may change.

You may also gain skills relevant to this occupation by completing a laboratory course. See the separate entry for Laboratory Worker for details.

Additional Information

A current drivers licence is usually required. In addition, applicants may need to be 18 years of age or older and hold a Provide First Aid Certificate. A clean police record is essential and all sites apply a zero- drug tolerance scheme.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Science field officers may work for mining and exploration companies, engineering and construction firms, and environmental organisations. Some science field officers may also work for government agencies in a variety of science areas.

Science field officers may progress to such roles as technical assistants and technical officers. They may also be involved in laboratory work.

Many officers work on a contract basis as demand is seasonal. Job opportunities also largely depend on the level of activity in scientific research. Competition is very strong for available entry-level positions.