Geological Technicians, Except Hydrologic Technicians
Geological technicians (except hydrologic technicians) assist scientists or engineers in the use of electronic, sonic, or nuclear-measuring instruments in laboratory, exploration, and production activities to obtain data indicating resources such as metallic ore, minerals, gas, coal, or petroleum. They analyze mud and drill cuttings and chart pressure, temperature, and other characteristics of wells or boreholes.
The geological technician job description involves collecting solid or fluid samples for analysis, using testing equipment to test samples and determining their content and characteristics, preparing notes, record testing data for review and further analysis, and preparing reports regarding sampling or testing of data analysis.
Geological and petroleum technicians participate in geological, geophysical, geochemical, hydrographic, oceanographic surveys, prospecting field trips, exploratory drilling, well logging, or underground mine survey programs. They also plot information from aerial photographs, well logs, section descriptions, or other databases, create photographic recordings of information, using equipment, and measure geological characteristics used in prospecting for oil or gas using measuring instruments.
Geologist technicians need a bachelor's degree, work-related skills, and knowledge, with geological technician training courses and experience. The required skills include critical thinking, monitoring, time management, science, judgement, decision making and communications. In addition,they require knowledge of computers and electronics, engineering and technology, mathematics, chemistry, physics, and geography.
To be successful at geological technician jobs, you need to pay attention to minute details, be person of integrity, and be dependable and able to think critically.
Qualifications
Every career requires an element of study and academic qualification, and there can be several study routes and pathways you can take. In following any academic pathway you will study subjects that contribute to the specialised knowledge required to achieve your career goals. These qualifications provide a future employer with the evidence that you have the desired knowledge, understanding and experience of their industry, so it’s important to consider the various types of qualifications available to you and to understand how they can boost your career and create opportunities for you.
- M.Sc. Geology
- M.Sc. Earth Science
- B.Sc. Geology
- B.Sc. Earth Science
Tasks
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
Progression Routes
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