Geotechnician

You could:

• prepare rock, soil and water samples for testing
•  analyse the chemical and physical properties of samples
•  obtain and process geophysical data
•  log well and borehole drilling activity
•  interpret data from seismic surveys
•  prepare geological maps
•  support teaching staff in university
•  train and supervise staff
•  produce reports for engineers and scientists

• maths knowledge
• knowledge of engineering science and technology
• analytical thinking skills
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• the ability to use your initiative
• excellent verbal communication skills
• the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
• knowledge of geography
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

Being able to drive may be an advantage in roles where you need to visit sites.

Having a Construction Skills Certification scheme (CSCS) card, though not essential, is useful if you are working for geotechnical companies that specialise in work for construction projects.

You can get into this job through:

• a university course
• a college course
• an apprenticeship
• working towards this role

With experience, you could train as a geoscientist.

You could also move into management, environmental engineering work, or become a laboratory technician or science teacher in a school, college or university.