• Geological Technician Job Description

    A geological technician is a person who assists and provides technical support to a scientist or engineer studying the structure of the earth. Geological technicians work under the direction of geologists, geophysicists, and engineers to collect, examine, and analyze geological field samples and writes reports on them.

    A geological technician should be curious, organized, careful, flexible, and willing to travel and work outdoors. They should have physical fitness and strength, and knowledge of the fundamental principles of geology.

  • What does a Geological Technician do?

    Geological technicians may do some or all of the following:

    • work under the direction of geologists, geophysicists, and engineers
    • install and maintain geological laboratory and field equipment
    • collect, examine, and analyze geological field samples
    • evaluate areas for dams, waste disposal, and construction sites
    • study volcanic eruptions and earthquakes
    • write reports on geological surveys
    • create maps using geography information system (GIS) programs
  • Where does a Geological Technician work?
  • Working Conditions

    Geological technicians usually work normal office hours, but may sometimes work evenings and weekends during extensive experiments. They work indoors in offices and laboratories, and outdoors in mines and on geological sites. They may travel to geological sites and work in severe weather and physically demanding conditions.

  • What is Required to Become a Geological Technician?

    To become a geological technician, you will need to have an associate’s degree in geosciences or a similar discipline.

  • Modules
  • Specializations
  • Knowledge, Skills and Attributes

    Geological technicians need to have:

    • patience
    • adaptability
    • dependability
    • physical fitness
    • accuracy and precision
    • good memory
    • good eyesight
    • good attention to detail
    • good listening and communication skills
    • good judgment and decision making skills
    • analytical and problem solving skills
    • observational skills
    • practical skills for operating scientific equipment
    • time-management and organizational skills
    • math and computer skills
    • the ability to work well under pressure and concentrate for long periods
    • the ability to use scientific knowledge to solve problems
    • the ability to work well independently and in a team
    • the ability to work well with and without supervision
    • knowledge of physics and chemistry
    • knowledge of the structure of the earth and its constituent materials
    • knowledge of geological survey techniques
    • knowledge of geological tools and equipment
    • knowledge of GIS and other mapping techniques

References

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Alternative Careers
  • Geologist
  • Geophysicist
  • Chemist
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