What Does a Geologist Do?
A geologist studies the Earth’s physical structure, materials, and processes to understand its history and guide practical applications like resource exploration, land development, and environmental protection. They analyze rocks, soil, water, and fossil records to interpret geological formations and predict natural changes or hazards.
Geologists often conduct fieldwork to gather samples and use laboratory tools or software to interpret data. Their findings are used to support projects in mining, oil and gas, construction, environmental remediation, and hazard prevention. Geologists play a critical role in both protecting natural resources and ensuring the safety and sustainability of development efforts.
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Geologist Core Responsibilities
- Conduct field studies, collect samples, and log site data
- Analyze rock, soil, water, and mineral samples for composition and structure
- Interpret geophysical and geochemical data using modeling software
- Prepare maps, cross-sections, and geologic reports
- Monitor environmental conditions such as erosion, contamination, or seismic activity
- Collaborate with engineers, hydrologists, and project managers on site development
- Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and safety standards
- Present findings to stakeholders and support regulatory submissions
Required Skills and Qualifications
Hard skills
- Proficiency in geological mapping, sampling, and data analysis
- Familiarity with GIS, AutoCAD, and modeling tools (e.g., Leapfrog, Surfer)
- Understanding of stratigraphy, petrology, hydrogeology, or geophysics
- Ability to conduct fieldwork in diverse and remote environments
Soft skills
- Strong observational and analytical thinking
- Effective technical writing and communication skills
- Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team
- Attention to detail with strong documentation habits
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in geology, geosciences, earth sciences, or a related field
Certifications
None universally required, but recommended certifications include the Professional Geologist (PG) license (state-dependent, often required for consulting) and OSHA HAZWOPER (for environmental and remediation work).
Preferred Qualifications
- Master’s degree in geology, environmental science, or a specialized subfield
- Experience with environmental assessments, mineral exploration, or site remediation
- Familiarity with local or federal regulatory frameworks (e.g., NEPA, CERCLA)
National Average Salary
Geologist salaries vary by experience, industry, organization size, and geography. Click below to explore salaries by local market.
The average national salary for a Geologist is:
$78,630
Sample Job Description Templates for Geologists
Environmental Geologist
Position Overview
We are hiring an Environmental Geologist to support site investigations, soil and groundwater sampling, and remediation planning. This role helps assess environmental risk and ensure regulatory compliance across development and remediation projects.
Responsibilities
- Conduct Phase I and II Environmental Site Assessments (ESAs)
- Collect and analyze soil, sediment, and groundwater samples
- Support remediation design, implementation, and monitoring
- Use GIS and groundwater modeling software to interpret data
- Prepare technical reports for regulatory agencies and clients
- Ensure adherence to environmental regulations (e.g., CERCLA, RCRA)
- Work on multidisciplinary teams with engineers and project managers
Requirements
Hard skills
- Experience with environmental sampling protocols and chain-of-custody documentation
- Familiarity with groundwater modeling tools (e.g., MODFLOW) and GIS platforms
- Knowledge of hazardous waste management and cleanup standards
Soft skills
- Strong field documentation and observational skills
- Ability to communicate technical information clearly
- Comfortable working in outdoor or remote environments
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in geology, environmental science, or a related field
Certifications
- OSHA 40-hour HAZWOPER (required for site work)
- Professional Geologist (PG) license may be preferred in some states
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience supporting Superfund, brownfield, or UST remediation projects
Engineering Geologist
Position Overview
We are seeking an Engineering Geologist to support geotechnical investigations for infrastructure and construction projects. This role analyzes subsurface conditions to inform the design and stability of foundations, slopes, and roadways.
Responsibilities
- Perform field investigations including test pits, borings, and geophysical surveys
- Analyze soil and rock samples for structural integrity
- Assess seismic risks, landslide potential, and subsurface hazards
- Prepare geotechnical reports for civil engineering teams
- Advise on foundation types, slope mitigation, and construction safety
- Collaborate with geotechnical and structural engineers on site plans
Requirements
Hard skills
- Proficiency in logging borings, core samples, and geologic hazards
- Experience with slope stability and seismic risk modeling tools
- Familiarity with ASTM and USCS soil classification standards
Soft skills
- Technical report writing for engineering and regulatory audiences
- Strong teamwork with civil and geotechnical professionals
- Analytical and site-interpretation skills
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in geology, geotechnical engineering, or related field
Certifications
- Professional Geologist (PG) license required in many jurisdictions
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with DOT, bridge, or utility infrastructure projects
Petroleum Geologist
Position Overview
We are hiring a Petroleum Geologist to identify and evaluate oil and gas reserves using seismic data, well logs, and basin modeling. This role plays a key part in exploration strategy and reservoir development.
Responsibilities
- Interpret seismic surveys and geological cross-sections
- Analyze core samples and well logs for reservoir quality
- Model sedimentary basins to identify drilling targets
- Advise on drilling locations, reservoir performance, and production potential
- Prepare maps, stratigraphic columns, and risk assessments
- Collaborate with drilling engineers, geophysicists, and land teams
Requirements
Hard skills
- Expertise in seismic interpretation and reservoir modeling
- Familiarity with petrophysical analysis and basin modeling tools
- Understanding of depositional environments and structural geology
Soft skills
- Decision-making with incomplete or probabilistic data
- Strong written and visual communication of findings
- Collaboration across technical and business teams
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in geology, geophysics, or petroleum engineering
Certifications
- Professional Geologist (PG) license preferred
- API safety certifications may be required for field site work
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with unconventional resources or offshore environments
Mining Geologist
Position Overview
We are hiring a Mining Geologist to support mineral exploration, resource modeling, and grade control at active mine sites. This role informs extraction planning and ensures ore quality during production.
Responsibilities
- Conduct core logging, chip sampling, and drill planning for exploration
- Model ore bodies using geological software (e.g., Leapfrog, Surpac)
- Evaluate grade, tonnage, and recovery estimates
- Support mine planning, pit mapping, and reconciliation analysis
- Monitor ongoing production for geological compliance
- Work closely with mine engineers, surveyors, and safety teams
Requirements
Hard skills
- Experience with exploration logging, assay data, and ore modeling
- Familiarity with mining software and grade control techniques
- Knowledge of mineral identification and deposit types
Soft skills
- Precise observation and reporting under field conditions
- Ability to communicate findings to both engineers and labor teams
- Strong time management in rotating or remote work environments
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in geology, mining geology, or a related field
Certifications
- Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) certification often required
- PG license may be preferred for resource reporting
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with open-pit or underground mining environments
Hydrogeologist
Position Overview
We are hiring a Hydrogeologist to study groundwater systems, assess water quality, and support projects involving aquifer protection, supply development, or contamination management.
Responsibilities
- Monitor groundwater levels, flow rates, and recharge areas
- Design and conduct aquifer pump tests and tracer studies
- Use modeling software (e.g., MODFLOW) to simulate groundwater movement
- Interpret chemical data to assess water quality and contaminant transport
- Provide input for well placement, remediation, and water resource plans
- Prepare technical reports and regulatory documentation
Requirements
Hard skills
- Proficiency with groundwater modeling, sampling, and geochemistry
- Experience in aquifer characterization and monitoring
- Knowledge of hydrogeological and geochemical data interpretation
Soft skills
- Strong data analysis and environmental reasoning
- Ability to explain findings to technical and public audiences
- Organized and methodical approach to documentation
Education
- Bachelor’s or master’s degree in geology, hydrogeology, or environmental science
Certifications
- PG license may be required for consulting roles
- OSHA HAZWOPER may be needed for field investigations
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with water rights, groundwater permitting, or drinking water assessments