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Geological Technicians

Overview

Geological technicians assist geologists in their studies of the earth's physical makeup and history. This includes the exploration of a wide variety of phenomena, such as mountain uplifting, rock formations, mineral deposition, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions. Modern geology is particularly concerned with the exploration for mineral and petroleum deposits in the earth and with minimizing the effects of human-made structures on the environment.

Petroleum technicians are specialized geological technicians who measure and record the conditions of oil and gas wells. They use instruments lowered into the wells, and evaluate mud from the wells. They examine data to determine petroleum and mineral content.

There are approximately 16,300 geological and petroleum technicians employed in the United States.

Salary Range

$25,000 to $100,000+

Minimum Education Level

Associate's Degree

Certification/License

None

Outlook

Faster than the Average
Personality Traits

Organized

Realistic

Technical

Career Ladder
Geologist, or Soil Scientist, or Paleontologist

Geological Technician

Trainee

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