Geology
Geologists study the structure, composition and history of the earth and, in particular, its crust--the immediate surface and underlying rocks. Geologists examine rocks and minerals in order to formulate and test theories on natural processes affecting the earth and to explore for mineral resources. They may also study fossil remains of animals and plant life and observe the flow of fluids and gases through rocks to determine the ages and rates of change of various parts of the earth's crust, as well as the possibility of oil and gas deposits. They contribute to environmental impact studies by examining the effects of wind, water, earthquakes, landslides, or volcanic action on landforms. Geologists also determine sources of groundwater and possible contamination effects.
Some geologists teach and conduct research in academic settings; others are involved in research, exploration, and engineering programs in the private sector. A number of experienced geologists go into business for themselves, offering their services as consulting geologists to the public.
Representative Job Titles and Areas of Specialization
| Curator-Natural History Museum | Marine Geologist | | Economic Geologist | Mineralogist | | Engineering Geologist | Mining Geologist | | Environmental Geologist | Naturalist | | Environmental Impact Report Writer | Paleontologist | | Exploration Geologist | Park Ranger | | Field Geologist | Petroleum Geologist | | Geochemist | Petrologist | | Geochronologist | Planetary Geologist | | Geological Consultant | Planner | | Geologist | Research Assistant/Technician | | Geothermal Energy Specialist | Stratigrapher | | Ground Water Geologist | Structural Geologist | | Hydrologist/Hydrogeologist | Technical Writer/Editor | | Instructor/Lecturer/Professor | Vertebrate Paleontologist | | Laboratory Assistant/Technician | Volcanologist |
Nature of the Work
Geologists in industry usually specialize in one of three general areas. Economic geologists locate earth materials such as minerals and solid fuels. Petroleum geologist attempt to locate oil and natural gas deposits below the earth's surface. Engineering geologists evaluate sites for construction of buildings, highways airports, tunnels, dams and other structures. The latter also study the flow of groundwater and pollution effects.
Most geologists divide their time among field and laboratory work, data analysis, and office duties. For example, some geologists spend much of their time in the field. There they work out-of-doors, collecting rock samples and fossils, measuring the strata, and gathering other types of information to be used in the preparation of reports and maps.
Once the field work is completed, the samples and other data that have been collected are usually taken to the laboratory for more detailed study. The rock samples may be x-rayed, studied under a polarizing or electron microscope, and subjected to chemical analysis. The geologists may also conduct laboratory experiments designed to test theories that have been proposed to explain geologic phenomena. Often, good geologic work is good detective work.But even the most active field and laboratory geologists must spend time in the office behind a desk, drawing table or computer terminal. There they write reports and draft maps and diagrams to illustrate the results of their studies.
Places of Employment
| Engineering firms | National oceanic and atmospheric agencies | | Cement, chemical and ceramic companies | Administration | | Colleges and universities | National Park Service | | Construction and engineering firms | Soil conservation service | | Federal agencies including: | Geological and geophysical consulting firms | | - Army Corps of Engineers | Highway departments | | - Bureau of Land Management | Independent environmental assessment firms | | - Bureau of Mines | Independent oil operators | | - Bureau of Reclamation | Mining and quarrying companies | | - Department of Energy | Museums | | - Environmental Protection Agency | Non-profit research institutions | | - Forest Service | Oceanographic institutes | | - Geological Survey | Petroleum producers | | - National Aeronautics and Space Administration | Planning departments | | National Laboratories | State geological surveys | | Water quality/resource boards | Utility companies |
Training
A bachelor's degree in geology is adequate for entry into some lower level geology jobs, but better jobs with good advancement potential usually require a master's degree. A Ph.D. is essential for most research positions.
For further information and/or career counseling contact the Career Center, Veitch Student Center, Northwest Wing, University of California, Riverside, 951.827.3631
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