Occupation · SOC 19-4043
Geological Technicians, Except Hydrologic Technicians
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.
Median wage
$48,390
$32,830–$92,210
Projected growth
+2.0%
Slower than average
Annual openings
10
per year
Employed (US)
9,710
Job Zone 4
Typical preparation
Considerable preparation
Stackable credential programs
364 mapped
Core skills
Reading ComprehensionCritical ThinkingWritingMonitoringTime ManagementJudgment and Decision MakingActive ListeningComplex Problem Solving
Knowledge areas
Computers and ElectronicsMathematicsEngineering and TechnologyEnglish LanguageChemistry
Technology & tools
Graphics or photo imaging softwareComputer aided design CAD softwareMap creation softwareData base user interface and query softwareGeographic information system
Representative tasks
Test and analyze samples to determine their content and characteristics, using laboratory apparatus Collect or prepare solid or fluid samples for analysis.Compile, log, or record testing or operational data for review and further analysis.
Competency framework
Skill expectations by proficiency level.
emerging
Rock and fluid samples — collect and label following established protocols at supervised field or laboratory sites.Laboratory apparatus and testing equipment — operate under direct supervision to perform standard analyses on geological samples.Test results and operational data — compile and log into standardized forms or databases with guidance from senior technicians.Geological sketches and field notes — prepare using established templates under the direction of a project geologist.Technical reports and sampling logs — draft preliminary sections by compiling data from field observations and laboratory output.Spreadsheet software and office suite tools — enter and organize geochemical or geophysical data for review by supervising staff.Testing and mechanical equipment — perform routine inspections and minor adjustments following written maintenance procedures.Professional and scientific literature — read assigned reports to extract relevant geological and geophysical data under guidance.Geographic information system software — input spatial data and generate basic map layers with direction from experienced staff.Field survey activities including prospecting trips and well-logging programs — participate as a team member under close professional oversight.
developing
Solid and fluid samples — collect, prepare, and preserve using appropriate methods selected for specific lithological or geochemical conditions.Laboratory testing equipment and analytical instruments — operate routinely to determine mineral content, chemical characteristics, and physical properties of samples.Operational and testing data logs — compile, verify, and maintain with reduced oversight, ensuring accuracy for downstream analysis.Geological maps and cross-sections — draft using CAD and map creation software based on field measurements and borehole data.Sampling and analysis reports — prepare clear technical documents summarizing findings and preliminary interpretations for project review.Geophysical and geochemical survey programs — support field execution by coordinating logistics and recording observations across multiple survey sites.Testing and electrical equipment — troubleshoot and repair common malfunctions in the field or laboratory to minimize operational downtime.GIS and mobile location-based services software — use to navigate field sites, capture spatial data, and produce working map products.Geological and geophysical prospecting reports — read and synthesize published findings to inform sampling strategies and data interpretation.Time and task scheduling — manage personal workload across concurrent field and laboratory assignments with limited supervisory input.
proficient
Complex sample suites from exploratory drilling and mine survey programs — analyze and interpret autonomously, applying inductive reasoning to identify lithological trends.Multi-parameter laboratory analyses — design and execute testing protocols that address non-routine geological questions across varied sample types and environments.Large geochemical and geophysical datasets — compile, query, and analyze using database and analytical software to support resource evaluation decisions.Detailed geological maps, stratigraphic cross-sections, and geologic models — produce independently using GIS, CAD, and graphics software for professional deliverables.Comprehensive technical and professional reports — author, review, and finalize documents presenting sampling findings, data analysis, and actionable recommendations.Exploratory drilling and well-logging operations — lead technical participation, evaluating subsurface conditions and recommending adjustments to drilling programs in real time.Testing, electrical, and mechanical equipment — diagnose and resolve complex failures, and develop preventive maintenance schedules to sustain laboratory and field operations.Regional geological and geophysical literature — critically evaluate and integrate findings to refine prospecting models and support resource estimation workflows.Interdisciplinary field survey programs — coordinate field-data collection across geological, geochemical, and geophysical methods to meet project objectives on schedule.Quality control procedures for sample handling and data recording — implement and audit throughout the project lifecycle to ensure data integrity and regulatory compliance.
advanced
Organizational sampling and testing standards — develop and institutionalize best-practice protocols that govern laboratory and field operations across multiple simultaneous projects.Geological technician teams — mentor, evaluate, and develop personnel at all experience levels to build sustained departmental technical capability.Integrated geological, geophysical, and geochemical survey programs — lead program design, resource allocation, and execution strategy at the organizational or regional scale.Strategic exploration decisions — inform senior leadership by synthesizing complex multi-source datasets into clear, evidence-based geological interpretations and risk assessments.Professional technical reports and regulatory submissions — review and approve final deliverables, ensuring scientific rigor, compliance, and stakeholder clarity.GIS, analytical software, and database infrastructure — oversee selection, implementation, and governance to maximize data quality and cross-project interoperability.Equipment procurement and maintenance programs — direct capital planning and vendor management to ensure that field and laboratory technology meets evolving operational demands.Cross-functional project teams including geologists, engineers, and environmental scientists — coordinate contributions and resolve technical conflicts to achieve integrated project outcomes.Industry literature, emerging methodologies, and regulatory developments — monitor continuously and translate insights into updated organizational practices and competitive exploration strategies.Organizational quality assurance and safety culture — champion rigorous attention to detail, integrity, and cautiousness as governing principles across all geological technician operations.
Also known as
133 alternate job titles map to this occupation.
Electron Microprobe OperatorField Engineer, SpecialistGeological AideEnvironmental Sampling TechnicianMaterials Management TechnicianTest TechnicianGeophysical Support SpecialistWell TesterPetroleum Refinery TesterField TesterGeotechnical TechnicianMaterials TechnicianMagnetic Prospecting OperatorSurveyor, Oil-Well DirectionalWell-Logging Captain, Mud AnalysisEchometer EngineerTemperature Logging OperatorMagnetic ObserverSection Plotter OperatorDrilling Fluids SpecialistMud LoggerGravity Prospecting ObserverMagnetic LocaterField Construction Materials Testing TechnicianSeismic ComputerGeological TechnicianField EvaluatorPetroleum AnalystMineral TechnologistAcid TesterSeismometer OperatorSensitometristLocator SpecialistGeotechnicianOil Prospecting ObserverConstruction Materials Field Technician (Construction Materials Field Tech)Scout LeaserObserverScoutOil Scout