Geological Technicians, Except Hydrologic Technicians
Assist scientists or engineers in the use of electronic, sonic, or nuclear measuring instruments in laboratory, exploration, and production activities to obtain data indicating resources such as metallic ore, minerals, gas, coal, or petroleum. Analyze mud and drill cuttings. Chart pressure, temperature, and other characteristics of wells or bore holes.
Common Job Titles
- Geological Technician
- Geotechnician
- Materials Technician
- Physical Science Technician
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- KnowledgeEvaluate pressure, temperature, and bore hole characteristics through continuous monitoring and data interpretation to ensure well integrity and productivity.Proficient
- KnowledgeInterpret geophysical and geochemical data from field surveys and laboratory analyses to support scientists and engineers in resource exploration and production decisions.Proficient
- KnowledgeExplain geological data findings and technical measurements to interdisciplinary teams through written reports and visual presentations using Microsoft Office and graphics software.Proficient
- KnowledgeAssess equipment functionality and measurement compliance with technical standards performing quality control analysis and troubleshooting to maintain data integrity.Proficient
- Hands-onOperate electronic, sonic, and nuclear measuring instruments in laboratory and field exploration activities to obtain data on natural resources such as metallic ore, minerals, gas, coal, or petroleum.Developing
- KnowledgeAnalyze mud and drill cuttings data using spectrophotometers and chromatography equipment to assess resource composition.Developing
- Hands-onCalibrate geophysical instruments including magnetometers, seismographs, and GPS systems following technical protocols to ensure measurement accuracy in field surveys.Developing
- KnowledgeApply geographic information system (GIS) software and geospatial analysis techniques using ESRI ArcGIS and related platforms to map geological features and resource distributions.Developing
- Hands-onPerform sample collection and preparation procedures using soil augers, core samplers, and laboratory processing equipment following established safety and quality protocols.Developing
- MindsetEngage in collaborative field and laboratory work maintaining effective communication with supervisors, peers, and external stakeholders to ensure project success.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Geological Technicians, Except Hydrologic Technicians (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
9,710
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $32,830. 25th percentile: U.S. $39,200. 50th percentile: U.S. $48,390. 75th percentile: U.S. $64,470. 90th percentile: U.S. $92,210. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $32,830 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $92,210 |
| Workers on average earn | $58,220 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Computers and Electronics3.5/5
- Mathematics3.5/5
- Engineering and Technology3.5/5
- English Language3.5/5
- Chemistry3.2/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- Adobe Illustrator
- Autodesk AutoCAD
- ESRI ArcGIS software
- Microsoft Access
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Word
- SAP software
Technology Skills
- Clark Labs IDRISI Andes
- Corel CorelDraw Graphics Suite
- Database software
- Dynamic Graphics EarthVision
- Geographic information system GIS software
- Geographic information system GIS systems
- Geographic resources analysis support system GRASS
- Global positioning system GPS software
Tools & Equipment
- 35 millimeter cameras
- Abney levels
- Automatic burets
- Binocular polarizing microscopes
- Calorimeters
- Carbon hydrogen nitrogen CHN analyzers
- Chipmunk crushers
- Clinometers