Salary and Outlook

According to the US Department of Labor, there are 9,200 people employed as geological technicians, except hydrologic technicians in the United States. The median annual salary is $48,310. Entry level employees earn approximately $30,590 per year and senior employees earn approximately $98,650 per year.

Estimates do not include other potential benefits such as health insurance, overtime pay, or retirement benefits that may be offered by employers.

Job Duties

• Compile, log, or record testing or operational data for review and further analysis.
• Prepare notes, sketches, geological maps, or cross-sections.
• Participate in geological, geophysical, geochemical, hydrographic, or oceanographic surveys, prospecting field trips, exploratory drilling, well logging, or underground mine survey programs.
• Participate in the evaluation of possible mining locations.
• Assess the environmental impacts of development projects on subsurface materials.
• Evaluate and interpret core samples and cuttings, and other geological data used in prospecting for oil or gas.
• Supervise well exploration, drilling activities, or well completions.
• Inspect engines for wear or defective parts, using equipment or measuring devices.
• Develop and design packing materials and handling procedures for shipping of objects.
• Collaborate with hydrogeologists to evaluate groundwater or well circulation.
• Operate or adjust equipment or apparatus used to obtain geological data.
• Plan and direct activities of workers who operate equipment to collect data.
• Set up or direct set-up of instruments used to collect geological data.
• Record readings in order to compile data used in prospecting for oil or gas.
• Create photographic recordings of information, using equipment.
• Measure geological characteristics used in prospecting for oil or gas, using measuring instruments.
• Prepare or review professional, technical, or other reports regarding sampling, testing, or recommendations of data analysis.
• Adjust or repair testing, electrical, or mechanical equipment or devices.
• Read and study reports in order to compile information and data for geological and geophysical prospecting.
• Interview individuals, and research public databases in order to obtain information.
• Plot information from aerial photographs, well logs, section descriptions, or other databases.
• Assemble, maintain, or distribute information for library or record systems.
• Test and analyze samples to determine their content and characteristics, using laboratory apparatus or testing equipment.
• Collect or prepare solid or fluid samples for analysis.

Career List