Geoscientist

As a geoscientist in the field, you might:

• assess sites for engineering projects, like dam or tunnel building
•  search for gas, oil and mineral resources
•  study volcanic and seismic activity to develop early warning systems for eruptions and earthquakes
•  collect data on groundwater levels to measure the impact of climate change
•  supervise technical teams on site

In the laboratory, you could:

• study rock samples, using scientific instruments
•  use software modelling to simulate underground rock formations
•  analyse soil, air and water samples for pollution and contamination levels

• maths knowledge
• knowledge of geography
• analytical thinking skills
• excellent verbal communication skills
• knowledge of engineering science and technology
• knowledge of physics
• the ability to come up with new ways of doing things
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• to have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications

You can get into this job through:

• a university course
• an apprenticeship

With experience, you could become a senior geoscientist, project manager or consultant. You might also work in higher education research and teaching.

You could apply for chartered status. This demonstrates that you have a high level of knowledge and expertise in your profession. The exact chartership will depend on your job but examples include:

• Chartered Geologist
• Chartered Scientist
• Chartered Environmentalist