Duties and Tasks

Geologists may perform the following tasks:

• explore specific areas of the earth to work out its structure and the types of rocks or minerals that exist
• 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 magnetic and gravity surveys
• examine geological specimens in laboratories using optical and electron microscopes, X-ray diffraction and chemical and mechanical techniques
• assist in 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 to environmental assessments about such things as land use, planning and rehabilitation and the effects of pollution on seabeds
• 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.

Specialisations

Engineering Geologist
Environmental Geologist
Field/Exploration Geologist
Geochemist/Mineralogist/Petrologist
Geomorphologist
Hydrogeologist/Hydrologist
Mathematical Geologist
Mine Site Geologist
Palaeontologist
Petroleum Geologist
Stratigrapher
Structural Geologist

Work Conditions

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.

Personal Requirements

• enjoy technical and engineering activities
• willing to adhere to safety requirements
• able to work independently or as part of a team
• able to prepare accurate records and reports
• physically fit
• prepared to work outdoors in a range of environments.

Related Industries

Exploration and Other Mining Support Services
Professional, Scientific and Technical Services (Except Computer System Design and Related Services)

Labour Market

Information

Australian JobOutlook for Geologists and Geophysicists

Vacancies

Australian JobSearch for Geologists and Geophysicists (ALL AUSTRALIA)
Work Opportunities websites

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