Geologist
Study the composition and materials of the Earth, and how these have changed over time.
Job opportunities
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Jobs in Jobstreet right now
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In the last year
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Typical monthly salary
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Job opportunities
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Jobs in Jobstreet right now
Salary
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Typical monthly salary
Job growth
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In the last year
Job satisfaction
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What's it like to be a Geologist?
Geologists are Earth Scientists who examine different aspects of the planet. Geologists specialise in specific fields depending on the industries they work in. For example, both Environmental and Engineering Geologists focus on the study of natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods, volcanic eruptions, and other hazards. Based on the data gathered, Environmental Geologists formulate solutions, while Engineering Geologists advise organisations on the safety of their building plans. Meanwhile, Economic Geologists study the development and mining of earth materials such as metals, minerals, natural gas, and water. Petroleum Geologists are part of examples of this subset.
Tasks and duties
- Collecting geological data through land surveys, past research and sample collection.
- Using microscopes, x-rays, acidic solutions and other tools to test earth materials.
- Developing models and visual representations through special software to locate natural formations and possible sites of resources.
- Identifying stable ground for projects and drilling to extract natural materials.
- Doing risk analysis to pinpoint potential dangers such as natural disasters and hazards.
- Creating geological maps, research papers and reports to be shared in company meetings or conferences.
Because of their varied specialisations, Geologists work in different settings. These include non-profit organisations, natural reserve companies, environmental consulting firms, the government and many others. Most of the time, Geologists are in the field, working in different weather conditions and on various terrains. They may also do laboratory work, testing and analysing rock and fossil samples. Sometimes, they spend time in the office for administrative duties such as reviewing budgets, doing research, and replying to emails.
How to become a Geologist
Armed with a solid background, geology graduates can easily find jobs if they are willing to work in any location. They combine their skills and knowledge in science, chemistry, and computers to decipher data and prepare solutions.
- Finish a bachelor degree in geology or other related field such as geophysics or engineering. However, if you are eventually aiming for a supervisory, research, or teaching role, a masters degree will open more career opportunities for you.
- Register with the Board of Geologists, which regulates geological practice in Malaysia.
- To gain work experience, find an entry-level position such as Research Assistant or Geology Assistant. As a junior employee, you will be trained in-house, or work under the guidance of an experienced Geologist. Typical beginner tasks include conducting surveys, gathering and analysing samples, and writing reports.
- Once you have gotten a feel for geological work, choose a specialisation that will dictate your specific tasks and duties. There are many fields to choose from such as marine geology, research geophysics, geohydrology or geomorphology.
- Develop your skills through a professional certification from international bodies. Examples are becoming a Certified Professional Geologist, joining the American Institute of Professional Geologists (AIPG), and receiving Certified Environmental Systems Manager status from the National Registry of Environmental Professionals (NREP-USA).
Skills and experience employers are looking for
Having the right skills and experience can make you an in-demand applicant. Geologist employers on Jobstreet are looking for job seekers with expertise in the following areas.
Source: Jobstreet job ads and Jobstreet Profile data
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