Profession geologist

Geologists research the materials that form the earth. Their observations depend on the purpose of the research. Depending on their specialisation, geologists study how the Earth has been shaped over time, its geological layers, the quality of minerals for mining purposes, earthquakes and volcanic activity for private services, and similar phenomena.

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Personality Type

  • Investigative / Realistic

Knowledge

  • Cartography

    The study of interpreting the elements depicted in maps, the measures and technical specifications. 

  • Mathematics

    Mathematics is the study of topics such as quantity, structure, space, and change. It involves the identification of patterns and formulating new conjectures based on them. Mathematicians strive to prove the truth or falsity of these conjectures. There are many fields of mathematics, some of which are widely used for practical applications.

  • Scientific modelling

    Scientific activity consisting in selecting the relevant aspects of a situation and aiming to represent physical processes, empirical objects and phenomena to allow a better understanding, visualisation or quantification, and to enable simulation that shows how this particular subject would behave under given circumstances.

  • Geological time scale

    System of chronological measurement dividing geologic history into several temporal divisions and subdivisions that take ancient life, geography, and climates into account.

  • Geology

    Solid earth, rock types, structures and the processes by which they are altered.

  • Scientific research methodology

    The theoretical methodology used in scientific research involving doing background research, constructing an hypothesis, testing it, analysing data and concluding the results.

  • Statistics

    The study of statistical theory, methods and practices such as collection, organisation, analysis, interpretation and presentation of data. It deals with all aspects of data including the planning of data collection in terms of the design of surveys and experiments in order to forecast and plan work-related activities.

Skills

  • Carry out geological explorations

    Perform exploration activities for mines and fields with the aim of analysing the properties of the area and finding ores.

  • Perform scientific research

    Gain, correct or improve knowledge about phenomena by using scientific methods and techniques, based on empirical or measurable observations.

  • Execute analytical mathematical calculations

    Apply mathematical methods and make use of calculation technologies in order to perform analyses and devise solutions to specific problems.

  • Apply statistical analysis techniques

    Use models (descriptive or inferential statistics) and techniques (data mining or machine learning) for statistical analysis and ICT tools to analyse data, uncover correlations and forecast trends.

  • Write scientific papers

    Present the hypothesis, findings, and conclusions of your scientific research in your field of expertise in a professional publication.

  • Apply scientific methods

    Apply scientific methods and techniques to investigate phenomena, by acquiring new knowledge or correcting and integrating previous knowledge.

  • Conduct soil sample tests

    Analyse and test soil samples; determine gas chromatography and gather relevant isotope and carbon information; determine viscosity.

  • Collect geological data

    Participate in the collection of geological data such as core logging, geological mapping, geochemical and geophysical surveying, digital data capture, etc.

  • Record test data

    Record data which has been identified specifically during preceding tests in order to verify that outputs of the test produce specific results or to review the reaction of the subject under exceptional or unusual input.

  • Operate scientific measuring equipment

    Operate devices, machinery, and equipment designed for scientific measurement. Scientific equipment consists of specialised measuring instruments refined to facilitate the acquisition of data.

  • Calibrate laboratory equipment

    Calibrate laboratory equipment by comparing between measurements: one of known magnitude or correctness, made with a trusted device and a second measurement from another piece of laboratory equipment. Make the measurements in as similar a way as possible.

  • Apply safety procedures in laboratory

    Make sure that laboratory equipment is used in a safe manner and the handling of samples and specimens is correct. Work to ensure the validity of results obtained in research.

  • Perform laboratory tests

    Carry out tests in a laboratory to produce reliable and precise data to support scientific research and product testing.

Optional knowledge and skills

prepare geological map sections develop geological databases develop scientific theories geochronology study aerial photos advise on building matters conduct land surveys soil science impact of geological factors on mining operations collect samples for analysis provide information on geological characteristics geophysics use geographic information systems design scientific equipment environmental legislation conduct field work process data interpret geophysical data investigate soil stability examine geochemical samples conduct sediment control advise on geology for mineral extraction geological mapping petrology sedimentology develop scientific research protocols logging write research proposals apply digital mapping prepare surveying report geochemistry assess environmental impact provide technical expertise geographic information systems

Common job titles

  • Mine geologist
  • Geologist
  • Intern, geology & geophysics 2018
  • Environmental scientist/geologist
  • Geotechnical laboratory technician
  • Geologist job
  • Wellsite geologist
  • Entry level hydrogeologist
  • Entry level geologist – nationwide
  • Geosteering geologist