Life, Physical & Social Science
Geological Technicians, Except Hydrologic Technicians
Also called: Core Inspector, Environmental Field Services Technician, Environmental Sampling Technician, Geological E-Logger
US median pay
$53,350
per year, 2025
Job growth 2025–35
+3.6%
about average or slower
Openings a year (US)
1,000
7,300 employed
Typical entry education
Associate's degree
Preparation 4/5 · Considerable preparation
What this job is
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.
What they do day to day
- Test and analyze samples to determine their content and characteristics, using laboratory apparatus or testing equipment.
- Collect or prepare solid or fluid samples for analysis.
- Compile, log, or record testing or operational data for review and further analysis.
- Prepare notes, sketches, geological maps, or cross-sections.
- Participate in geological, geophysical, geochemical, hydrographic, or oceanographic surveys, prospecting field trips, exploratory drilling, well logging, or underground mine survey programs.
- Prepare or review professional, technical, or other reports regarding sampling, testing, or recommendations of data analysis.
- Adjust or repair testing, electrical, or mechanical equipment or devices.
- Read and study reports in order to compile information and data for geological and geophysical prospecting.
- Interview individuals, and research public databases in order to obtain information.
- Plot information from aerial photographs, well logs, section descriptions, or other databases.
Skills and knowledge that matter most
Skills
- Time Management3.2/5
- Judgment and Decision Making3.1/5
- Complex Problem Solving3.1/5
- Operations Monitoring3.0/5
- Coordination3.0/5
- Social Perceptiveness2.9/5
- Operation and Control2.8/5
- Systems Analysis2.6/5
Knowledge
- Computers and Electronics3.5/5
- Mathematics3.5/5
- Engineering and Technology3.5/5
- English Language3.5/5
- Chemistry3.2/5
- Physics3.1/5
Importance rated by people working in the job (1 = not important, 5 = extremely important).
Education and preparation
Preparation level 4 of 5 — Considerable preparation. Usually a bachelor's degree and several years of related experience.
Typical entry education (BLS): Associate's degree.
Who this job suits
Mostly Realistic
Hands-on work with tools, machines, plants or animals
Conventional
Organising data, details and procedures
Investigative
Ideas, research and solving problems
Based on the Holland (RIASEC) interest profile for this occupation.