Exploration geologist

Exploration geologist job description: Typical employers | Qualifications and training | Key skills | Useful links | Find jobs and courses

Exploration geologists are employed by companies, consultants and contractors working within the minerals extraction industry. They are responsible for identifying and assessing the location, quantity and quality of mineral deposits, ascertaining extraction risks, preparing reports and maps, analysing geological data using specialist computer applications and advising managerial, technical and engineering staff. Their work can be office based, although fieldwork is necessary to collect and test site/borehole samples.

Typical duties include:

• investigating the structure and evolution of the earth and its natural resources
• planning programmes for exploration of sites for oil, gas, water, minerals, etc
• surveying and mapping geologically promising sites
• collecting, recording and analysing samples and data from test sites
• advising on the development of reserves.

Absence from home for long periods of time is common as international work is often necessary. Long hours, shift and weekend work are also regularly required.

There is strong competition for vacancies, so relevant geological experience gained via vacation placements or working in junior positions can be useful. Jobs are advertised in national newspapers, via the internet and by careers services and specialist recruitment agencies. Useful sources of information include Geoscientist Magazine and The Geologist's Directory online.

Qualifications and training required

A degree in geology is often the minimum academic requirement for entry; some employers also expect a relevant postgraduate qualification.

The job carries a high level of responsibility, as the employee must ensure the accuracy of forecasts - initiating extraction processes is often very expensive and mistakes can be costly. Consequently, training is an important feature of the job. New recruits normally receive a period of intensive training shadowing experienced employees and on-the-job training as required.

Key skills for exploration geologists

• Knowledge of a range of sciences and their applications
• Ability to work within a multidisciplinary team of scientists and engineers
• Good organisational skills
• Computer literacy and ability to analyse numerical and graphical data
• Good written and verbal communication skills.