Day in the Life
Geoscientists
can spend a large part of their time in the field, identifying and
examining geological formation, studying data collected by remote
sensing instruments, conducting geological surveys, constructing field
maps, and using instruments to measure the Earth's gravity and magnetic
field. They often perform seismic studies, for example, which involve
bouncing energy waves off buried layers of rock, to search for oil and
gas or to understand the structure of the subsurface layers. Similarly,
they use seismic signals generated by an earthquake to determine the
earthquake's location and intensity. In laboratories, they examine the
chemical and physical properties of specimens. They study fossil remains
of animal and plant life or experiment with the flow of water and oil
through rocks.
Some geoscientists
spend the majority of their time in an office, but many others divide
their time between fieldwork and office or laboratory work. Work at
remote field sites is common. Some specialists, such as volcanologists,
often take field trips that involve significant physical activity and
some risk. In the field they work in warm or cold climates and in all
kinds of weather. In their research, they may dig or chip with a hammer,
scoop with a net, and carry equipment in a backpack. Oceanographers may
spend considerable time at sea on academic research ships. Geologists
frequently travel to remote field sites by helicopter or 4-wheel-drive
vehicles and cover large areas on foot. Many exploration geologists and
geophysicists work in foreign countries, sometimes in remote areas and
under difficult conditions. Travel often is required to meet with
prospective clients or investors. Fieldwork often requires working long
and irregular hours.
Geoscientists and
hydrologists often begin their careers in field exploration or as
research assistants or technicians in laboratories or offices. As they
gain experience, they take on more complex and difficult assignments.
Eventually, some are promoted to project leader, program manager, or to
a senior research position. Those who choose to work in management will
spend more time scheduling, budgeting, and reporting to top executives
or clients
Note: Some resources in this section are provided by
the
American Geological Institute and the US Department
of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics.
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