Science, Technology & Environment
Geological Technician
Geological technicians support scientists, engineers and geologists by collecting and analysing data from rock, soil and water samples.
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Entry-level education
VET qualification
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Job outlook
What does a Geological Technician do?
Geological technicians provide support to scientists, engineers and geologists by collecting and analysing information from rock, soil and water samples. Geological technicians may also be called geotechnicians or geoscience technicians.
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Work activities
As a geological technician, your work would involve laboratory duties such as:
- preparing rock, soil and water samples for testing
- analysing the chemical make up and physical properties of samples.
You would use a range of specialised instruments and computer programs in your work. Depending on the type of research you are carrying out, your other duties could include:
- obtaining and processing geophysical data
- logging well and borehole drilling activity
- interpreting data from seismic surveys
- preparing geological maps sections
- supporting teaching staff in a university
- producing reports for engineers and scientists
- maintaining quality standards.
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Key skills and interests
To become a geological technician, you would need:
- good scientific and technical skills
- the ability to pay close attention to detail
- good maths skills
- patience
- good observational skills
- a methodical approach to problem solving.
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Working hours and conditions
Working Hours
A geological technician would normally work standard hours, Monday to Friday.
Conditions
You would spend a lot of your time in a laboratory, and you will also work outdoors, collecting samples. In the lab, you would wear protective clothing and use safety equipment when carrying out certain tests.
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How to become an Geological Technician?
Entry Level Education
To become a geological technician you usually have to complete a VET qualification in science, environmental monitoring and technology, laboratory work or a related area.
Your employment prospects may be improved if you have a degree with a major in geology, mathematics, chemistry, or physics. To get into these courses you usually need to gain your senior secondary school certificate or equivalent. English, mathematics, chemistry or physics would be appropriate subjects to study prior to university.
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Job outlook
Employment of geological technicians is projected to grow about as fast as the average for all occupations.
More opportunities may be available in the mining industry, particularly in geological exploration and extraction, than in other areas.
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