Geoscience, or geology, is the scientific study of the structure, evolution and dynamics of the earth and its natural resources.
Geoscientists work in a wide variety of different areas, including:
- The energy sector.
This is dominated by the exploration/production of oil and gas, but there are also opportunities related to uranium production and alternative sources of energy, such as geothermal power. For example, wellsite geoscientists produce geological maps, select sites for surveys and production, conduct seismic surveys and interpret results.
- The extraction sector.
Geoscientists are employed to work on the exploration, development and production of mine, pit and quarry sites. Geochemistry and geophysics are used extensively to search for mineral deposits.
- Engineering.
Geoscientists are essential to many projects, including the construction of buildings and dams, slope stability, mine and quarry design, and tunnelling. They may advise on how to avoid or reduce problems caused by subsidence, landslides and earthquakes, and assist in assessing the level of hazard to the human population posed by volcanoes, earthquakes and tsunamis. They may be concerned with the impact of developments on surrounding areas and populations.
- Water supplies.
Geoscientists study the movement, behaviour and quality of groundwater (water beneath the earth’s surface), and potential sources of pollution. They also design exploration programmes for new water supplies, especially in developing countries.
- Environmental geoscience.
This area encompasses the air, water and land in/on which people, animals or plants live. Many environmental geoscientists are concerned with the protection of these environments against damage as a result of geological activities, such as oil exploration, mining and waste disposal.
Geoscientists use laboratory techniques for testing and evaluating samples, as well as computer modelling, analysis and databases. They also write technical reports.
Hours and environment
Working hours and conditions vary considerably. Some geoscientists work normal office hours, although evening and weekend work may be necessary to meet deadlines. Geoscientists involved in exploration, surveys and production may work very long hours.
The work is both indoors, in laboratories and offices, and outdoors, on land or at sea. Some outdoor work takes place in very demanding conditions and in remote locations. Mining geoscientists often work underground in wet and dirty conditions. For some activities, geoscientists have to wear protective clothing and safety equipment.
Many geoscientists spend time away from home, ranging from a few days to several months. Work and travel abroad is required for some jobs.
Salary and other benefits
These figures are only a guide, as actual rates of pay may vary, depending on the employer and where people live.
- Geoscientists may start on around €32,000 a year (or more if they have postgraduate qualifications).
- Experienced geoscientists may earn around €60,000 a year.
- Senior geoscientists may earn more than €90,000.
Salaries vary considerably between sectors. Geoscientists working for oil companies and consultancies tend to be the most highly paid.
Skills and personal qualities
A geoscientist should:
- have practical skills for using instruments and technical equipment
- have good communication skills, both spoken and written
- be able to work both independently and as part of a team
- have good powers of observation
- have a methodical approach to problem solving
- be able to take responsibility for important decisions
- in some cases, have normal colour vision
- be aware of health and safety issues.
Interests
It is important to:
- be interested in science and the environment.
Getting in
Employers include:
- oil and gas companies
- water companies
- mining and quarrying companies
- engineering and construction companies
- consultancies and service companies that support exploration and production, and advise on environmental issues
- local authorities
- Geological Survet Ireland
- specialist agencies, such as the Environment Proctection Agency and The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland
- university departments of geology, geoscience or earth science and, to a lesser extent, departments of oceanography, engineering and environmental science
- secondary schools, where geoscientists are likely to be employed as either science or geography teachers.
Entry routes
The minimum requirement for becoming a professional geoscientist is normally a first degree in one of the geosciences – geology, geophysics, geochemistry, petroleum geology, engineering geology or exploration geology.
Useful Links:
Irish Association For Economic Geology