Careers in Geosciences

Science Graduates are in Demand

Every year, the demand for science graduates continues to grow. Dozens of industries are experiencing rapid growth in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) related jobs. These jobs are being created much faster than they can be filled. From the president’s State of the Union address to the latest article from industry blogs, everyone is trying to figure out how to fill the need for these highly skilled jobs.

Geoscientists work in Many Industries

Geoscience, the study of the Earth, has a wide variety of career oppourtunities. Geoscientists specialize in different areas and study different aspects of the earth. Most geoscience jobs require a combination of field, laboratory and office work. Many geoscientists work on research projects. Here are just a few of the careers available with a geoscience degree.

Petrologists investigate the composition of rocks and their origin.

Sedimentologists study the origin and deposition of sediments and the changes involved in their conversion to sedimentary rocks.

Hydrogeologists study the distribution, circulation, and physical properties of subsurface water.

Volcanologists investigate the origin of volcanic rocks and the life cycles of volcanoes.

Geophysicists study the earth using gravity, magnetic, electrical, and seismic methods.

Oceanographers investigate oceans, including marine organisms, water properties, and the history of the sea bottom.

Petroleum geologists explore the subsurface for oil or gas.

Engineering geologists use their knowledge of geology in the construction of roads, dams, and buildings.

 

Geoscience related industries

Geoscientists can work in a variety of different companies and organizations.

Private Companies and Corporations

Petroleum and natural gas companies, mining companies, engineering and environmental consulting firms, and independent research laboratories.

Government Agencies

Local, state, and federal agencies such as the U.S. Geological Survey, Environmental Protection Agency, Bureau of Land Management, Army Corps of Engineers, state water control boards, and state geological surveys.

Educational institutions

High schools, colleges, universities, and museums.

Geoscience Salary

  

$82,500

The median annual wage of geoscientists was $82,500 in May 2010. That works out to be $39.66 per hour. Check out the occupational handbook for more information on the job outlook for geoscientists.


Learn more about Geoscience jobs

American Geological Institute

Earth Science World

Earthworks-jobs

Association of Women Geoscientists








Weber State University

Ogden, Utah 84408