Geoscientist

Entry Requirements:

You can get into this job through:

• a university course
• an apprenticeship

University

To work as a professional geoscientist you'll need a degree in a relevant subject. Courses often combine theory with fieldwork and practical training. Degree subjects include:

• geology
• geoscience
• geophysics
• Earth science

It's becoming more common for new entrants to hold or be working towards postgraduate qualifications like an MSc or PhD.

Integrated postgraduate master's qualifications like a MGeol or MSci can be studied at university. These courses include more independent research and are designed to lead directly onto further study like a PhD.

Entry requirements:

• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science
• 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including a science, for a degree
• a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

Entry requirements:

Apprenticeship

If you want to work in the engineering sector using geoscience, you could do a Geotechnical engineer integrated degree apprenticeship.

Employers look for graduates with a degree in subjects like:

• engineering
• science
• geoscience
• maths

Entry requirements:

• a degree in a relevant subject

Required Skills:

Digital skills : to have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications

Skills:

• maths knowledge
• knowledge of geography
• analytical thinking skills
• excellent verbal communication skills
• knowledge of engineering science and technology
• knowledge of physics
• knowledge of chemistry including the safe use and disposal of chemicals
• the ability to come up with new ways of doing things
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• thinking and reasoning skills
• the ability to use your initiative
• science skills
• knowledge of English language
• excellent written communication skills
• the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
• persistence and determination
• active listening skills
• the ability to read English
• ambition and a desire to succeed
• concentration skills

What you'll do:

Geoscientists study the Earth's structure and formation, and analyse rocks to explore its natural mineral and energy resources.

In the field you could:

• travel to investigate rocks in their natural setting
• assess the ground for suitability on engineering projects like dam or tunnel building
• sample rocks and record information to search for energy resources and minerals, like water, gas and oil
• study volcanic and seismic activity to develop early warning systems for communities living close to earthquake zones
• supervise site teams
• advise on suitable sites for landfill or storage of nuclear waste

In the laboratory you could:

• use a microscope to study rock samples
• test for things like strength or pollution levels
• use software modelling programmes
• analyse data and write reports

Location : You could work in a laboratory, visit sites or in an office.
Environment : Your working environment may be physically demanding, outdoors in all weathers and you'll travel often.
Uniform : You may need to wear protective clothing.

Salary:

Starter : £28,000
Experienced : £42,000

These figures are a guide

Working hours:

39 - 41 hours variable

Working Pattern is evenings / weekends / bank holidays away from home

Career Path:

With experience, you could progress towards a consultant position, or move into teaching or management.

You may also be able to apply for chartered environmentalist status. You can find out more about being a chartered environmentalist from the Society for the Environment .