Geological Technicians

Advancement for geological technicians depends on the size of the organization they work for and their educational background. At smaller companies and consulting firms, the range of tasks may be quite varied. Geological technicians may perform some tasks that geologists normally do, as well as some clerical duties. At larger companies, the opposite may be true. A geological technician might specialize in well spotting, for example, or supervise a staff of several geological technicians.

Supervisory positions are often available to technicians with several years of on-the-job experience. Typically, these technicians will train new staff in proper procedures and methods, as well as check their work for accuracy before sending it to the geologist.

With additional education and either a master's degree or doctorate, geological technicians can go on to work as geologists, soil scientists, or paleontologists, for example.