Geologist

= = **Geologist**

__Education:__ -minimum of a Bachelor’s Degree in geology or a related field -Master’s degree is required for an entry level geology research job -PhD is necessary for high level research positions and to teach geology in college -many states require geologist to be licensed to practice, this could involve testing of some sort

__Salary:__ -earnings depend on level of education, experience, and industry you work in -also can depend on fieldwork and what you are willing to do, those people willing to spend several months a year at isolated exploration sites can earn a great deal more than those that aren’t -many also work on contract rather than permanent, and pay depends on their reputation and the demand for work.

Wisconsin Averages: Entry Level: Hourly- $22.59 Annual- $46,990 Median Wage: Hourly- $32.53 Annual- $67,660 Experienced Wage: Hourly- $42.30 Annual- $87,990

__Job Description:__ Geologists are scientists who study the history and structure of the earth’s crust, as well as the rocks, minerals, fossils, and other materials that make up the ground beneath our feet. -Examine and identify rocks and minerals -Prepare maps that show rock types and geological structures -Advise builders and engineers on the suitability of sites for building or mining projects -Locate new oil fields and mineral deposits and devise ways to access them -Teach at colleges

__Workplace:__ -Work for consulting firms, government agencies, museums, academic institutions, and environmental and mining companies -Mostly work indoors in offices and labs, but many also spend time working outdoors in the field in all weather conditions. -Work 8 to 9 hours a day During fieldwork, they may work 12 to 14 hours a day, sometimes 7 days a week. -Many travel frequently, often to remote areas.

__Availability:__ -Geologist jobs seem to be readily available; this may be partially due to the diversity of the job itself. Many choose to become a specific type of geologist, and in doing so would reduce the number of jobs available. __Agencies:__ USGS- U.S. Geological Survey Phone: 1-888-ASK-USGS AAPG- American Association of Petroleum Geologists Phone: 1-918-584-2555 AGI- American Geological Institute Email: workforce@aig.web

__Resources__: www.careercruising.com www.geologist.com http://www.gps.caltech.edu/~ryan/realultimatepower.htm http://www.personal.kent.edu/~cschweit/Stark/whygeologymajor.htm